US: Powerball, Mega Millions share turf
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Lottery players in dozens of states hit the jackpot Sunday as two national games — Powerball and Mega Millions — began selling tickets in the same states. The move is likely to increase jackpots and promises greater revenue for cash-strapped state and local governments.
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US: Stimulus created 600,000 jobs at the end of 2009, White House says
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Obama administration's economic stimulus program created nearly 600,000 jobs in the final three months of 2009, a figure in line with the administration's goals for job creation through the end of 2010, the White House reported Saturday night.
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AK: Governor wants state to intervene in Tongass cases
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Sean Parnell said the state will try to intervene in two cases affecting Southeast Alaska timber.
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AK: Energy industry ad campaign hits at state oil taxes
From: feeds.stateline.org
"An energy industry trade group is using a new ad campaign to call for changes to Alaska's controversial oil and gas production tax.
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AL: Gov. Bob Riley questions legality of Country Crossing, ties to attorney general
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A constitutional amendment allowing charitable bingo in Houston County strictly regulates how the proceeds can be spent, going so far as to ban any type of payment for people and groups running the games.
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AL: Ala. AG, county DAs at odds before Supreme Court
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state Supreme Court has become an arena pitting Alabama's attorney general against the state's district attorneys, with a decision possibly affecting the legal battle over gambling in Alabama.
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AL: Lawsuit adds claims that Larry Langford pocketed $1.5 million in VictoryLand jackpots
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Former Birmingham Mayor Larry Langford pocketed more than $1.5 million in winnings from more than 500 jackpots at Milton McGregor's VictoryLand electronic bingo casino in Shorter from 2006 2008, according to new claims in a Macon County law suit.
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AL: One in eight residents in Alabama doesn't have a bank account, according to survey by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp., an agency that promotes public confidence in the banking sector as well as backing deposits.
From: feeds.stateline.org
"FLORENCE, Ala. — One in eight residents in Alabama doesn't have a bank account, according to survey by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp., an agency that promotes public confidence in the banking sector as well as backing deposits.
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AL: Supreme Court blocks bingo in Ashville
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Alabama Supreme Court unanimously blocked electronic bingo machines in Ashville on Friday and reiterated that bingo games must involve lots of human interaction to meet Alabama law.
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AL: Riley, King trade words over bingo raids
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The emphasis shifted Friday from early morning law enforcement raids on Alabama casinos to late-afternoon political attacks on and by two of Alabama's top officials, Gov. Bob Riley and Attorney General Troy King.
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AL: Senate prepares to continue debate on road, bridge bill
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Alabama Senate will en ter its third week of debate Tuesday on a bill that would bring at least $15 million more in funding for roads and bridges to Autauga, Elmore and Montgomery counties over the next 10 years.
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AR: Slow economy boosts Ark. college enrollment
From: feeds.stateline.org
"CONWAY, Ark. — Enrollment in Arkansas colleges and universities is up by 6 percent from a year ago, a spike that state higher education officials on Friday attributed to the recession.
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AZ: Proposed amendment would cut lawmakers' pay
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A bipartisan group of senators think they and their colleagues should know how it feels when they cut the pay of state workers.
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AZ: Arizona needs sustained job-growth strategy
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Arizona enters a new decade with not only a massive budget deficit but also a severe job deficit that threatens to crush its hopes for a quick economic recovery.
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AZ: Arizona Department of Commerce on the verge of shrinking
From: feeds.stateline.org
"With unemployment hovering around 9 percent, Arizona desperately needs jobs. However, the key state agency in charge of attracting businesses appears to be on the verge of shrinking further.
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AZ: Numbers show state economy isn't recovering
From: feeds.stateline.org
"New figures Friday from the Joint Legislative Budget Committee show that tax collections in December were just $715.4 million. That is more than $99 million less than in the same month a year earlier, a 12.2 percent decline.
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CA: Toxic waste from Tijuana subject of new probe
From: feeds.stateline.org
"On Friday, Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger directed the California Department of Public Health and the state's Environmental Protection Agency to send experts to Kettleman City to expand their investigation into what could be causing a higher-than-normal percentage of birth defects.
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CA: CalPERS sets open-door policy for pitches
From: feeds.stateline.org
"LOS ANGELES and SACRAMENTO -- So what does it take to get your foot in the door at California's giant public pension fund with its $203 billion in stocks, bonds, real estate and commodities?
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CA: Illegal-immigrant inmates no longer allowed in work program
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A board that oversees vocational training and work programs at California prisons has voted to discontinue allowing undocumented immigrant inmates set for deportation to participate in the California Prisons Industry Authority certification program.
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CA: HP contributions go to Barbara Boxer, not Carly Fiorina
From: feeds.stateline.org
"So far, Hewlett-Packard has given the maximum amount to Sen. Barbara Boxer but hasn't contributed toward its own former CEO, Carly Fiorina, campaign finance reports show.
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CA: Lost jobs, economy seen as top issue in governor race
From: feeds.stateline.org
"As tens of thousands of Californians lose their jobs every month, the high-stakes race for governor is becoming a referendum on how to stem the unemployment tide and get people back into the labor market.
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CA: Electronic bingo machines removed in Sacramento
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Charitable organizations in Sacramento agreed to permanently pull the plug on hundreds of slot machine-style games Sunday.
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CO: State Senate to vote on PERA rescue today
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Lawmakers will take a final vote today on a measure that reduces cost- of-living benefits, raises the retirement age and increases contributions to Colorado's pension fund.
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CO: Romer names his Colfax desire -- streetcars
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State Sen. Chris Romer plans to introduce a bill today that would take a portion of higher vehicle registration fees and flow the money to a special district that would coordinate financing, construction and operation of a streetcar line on Colfax Avenue in Denver and Aurora.
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CO: Colo. proposed rules on uranium mining go public
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Colorado mining officials have released draft regulations aimed at tightening oversight of uranium mining operations in the state.
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CO: Banks wary of marijuana-dispensary accounts
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Wells Fargo & Co. — which medical-marijuana dispensary owners say is virtually the only bank in Colorado willing to take their business — has stopped opening new accounts for dispensaries.
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CO: Long delays in Colorado food-aid may spur another lawsuit
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Two years after the state promised to solve the long delays in its food- stamp and Medicaid programs, lawyers say there has not been enough improvement and are weighing whether to take the state back to court.
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CT: Legislators push for Valley fire training school funds
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Valley lawmakers are pushing for the state to release funds for the purchase of property for a new Naugatuck Valley fire training school.
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CT: Four bids come in for Seaside
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Four potential buyers have submitted bids to purchase the former Seaside Regional Center in Waterford, officials from the state Department of Public Works announced Friday, the deadline for submission of proposals to redevelop the property.
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CT: The Simmons campaign reacts to Blumenthal's role in the Computer Plus Center lawsuit
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Raj Shah, spokesman for Republican U.S. Senate Rob Simmons, lashed out against Attorney General Richard Blumenthal for his role in a lawsuit that wound up costing the state $18 million.
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CT: Jury -- State must pay $18 million to computer firm
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state must pay more than $18 million to the owner of an East Hartford computer company that state officials had accused of skimping on parts, a Superior Court jury in Waterbury decided Friday.
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CT: State lawmakers return to Capitol, budget grind Wednesday
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State legislators battled all last year over the state budget, but they will be back at it when the General Assembly session opens on Wednesday.
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DE: Delawareans feeling better about economy
From: feeds.stateline.org
"There's something in the air that most Delawareans haven't gotten a whiff of for a while -- optimism. Happier days may not quite be here again, but it's growing clear that some key measures of economic health -- from consumer confidence to small-business lending -- are picking up momentum.
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DE: No need to cross state lines as lottery games expand
From: feeds.stateline.org
"DES MOINES, Iowa -- No need to cross state lines to get the big-jackpot lotto tickets. Dozens of states, including Delaware, will begin selling both Mega Millions and Powerball tickets today, moving the U.S. a step closer to having a national lottery.
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FL: Florida still open to Haiti patients, Crist says
From: feeds.stateline.org
"With appearances on national talk shows and visits to patients at South Florida hospitals, Gov. Charlie Crist and other Florida officials worked Sunday to counter reports that the state is denying Haitian earthquake victims medical care because of concerns about rising costs.
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FL: Governor proposes $2.7 billion increase in Florida state budget
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Charlie Crist wants the Legislature to adopt a state budget for next year of $69.2 billion that relies heavily on a fresh injection of federal stimulus money, an expected economic rebound in Florida and an ill-fated Seminole gambling deal.
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FL: The $4.4 billion question -- Will Central Floridians take the train?
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Central Florida is in for a culture shock. Dependent for generations on the automobile for virtually all means of transit, the region relatively soon will have not one, but two, new passenger trains running through it.
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FL: Officials skeptical of personnel provisions of proposed Florida budget
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State employees would not face layoffs, furloughs, pay cuts or increases in their insurance premiums this year if state legislators adopt personnel provisions of the $69.2 billion state budget that Gov. Charlie Crist proposed on Friday.
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FL: Finance 101 -- Parents face steeper prepaid tuition plans
From: feeds.stateline.org
"For parents enrolling in Florida's prepaid College Plan this year, it's a case of choose your sticker shock.
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GA: Bonus pay stokes anger
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Top investment staffers at the Georgia Teachers Retirement System received pay increases of up to $108,000 last fiscal year even though the fund they manage lost money and most state employees went without raises amid the state's fiscal crisis.
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GA: Hawkins focuses on jobs, health care
From: feeds.stateline.org
"RINGGOLD, Ga. -- State Sen. Lee Hawkins focused on two hot button issues Friday as he addressed supporters: jobs and health care.
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GA: Ga. Power casts lot with gas, nuclear
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Georgia Power Co. is betting its future on generating electricity from nuclear power and natural gas.
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GA: Legislators aim to keep Falcons downtown
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Legislators can't make the Atlanta Falcons stay downtown, but they can help pave the way for a deal.
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GA: $3 fee to help UGA go greener
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Starting next semester, students will pay a $3 "green" fee to support environmentally friendly efforts on campus. Students often protest higher fees imposed by officials, but this charge was initiated by students.
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HI: Hawaii public utility commissioners clash
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A dispute within the three-member Hawai'i Public Utilities Commission threatens to compound problems at the agency, which is already slow at making decisions because of staff and budget cuts.
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HI: Science, engineering fair in dire straits
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The organizers of the statewide science fair still need to raise $5,000 for April's event, but worry more about where they're going to find another $250,000 next year for a program that each year involves 7,000 to 12,000 public and private school children across the Islands.
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IA: Northey predicts more staff reductions in ag department
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Iowa Ag Secretary Bill Northey says 50 jobs within the Iowa Department of Agriculture will have to be eliminated if the legislature endorses the governor's budget plan for the agency.
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IA: Iowa Lottery begins selling Mega Millions Sunday
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Iowa Lottery players will be able to buy tickets in another big jackpot game starting this Sunday.
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IA: Residents grill Iowa legislators at forum
From: feeds.stateline.org
"From education funding to same-sex marriage, 150 Iowa Quad-City residents peppered their state legislators with questions Saturday at the first of three forums.
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IA: Iowa lawmakers tackle government reorganization
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State lawmakers this week hope to begin to reshape and downsize state government in earnest.
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IA: Wet summer, more demand could create seed shortage
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Dreaming of biting into a garden-fresh cucumber sandwich this summer? Better order your seeds now.
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IA: New owner says kosher slaughterhouse hiring 150
From: feeds.stateline.org
"POSTVILLE, Iowa -- The new owner of the kosher meatpacking plant in Postville says he plans to hire 150 workers as the plant expands its poultry production and restarts its beef line.
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IA: State investigates hacking of computer server
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission says someone gained access to a computer server that holds more than 80,000 records containing casino employee information.
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IA: UI hopes to expand its early retirement program
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The University of Iowa will do a second run of an early retirement incentive program with a reduced eligibility age of 55, if approved by the Iowa state Board of Regents at a meeting next week in Ames.
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IA: Lawmakers not expected to mull malpractice reform
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Medical malpractice reform is a perennial issue at the Iowa Legislature, but it probably won't get much airing at the Statehouse this spring.
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IA: Much of Iowa seen at significant risk of spring flooding
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Iowa is at risk for significant flooding this spring, the National Weather Service says. At some of the highest risk for flooding are cities along the Des Moines River from the Minnesota border to the Des Moines area, including Estherville, Algona, Fort Dodge and Des Moines.
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IA: Pols cheer stimulus package for high-speed rail
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Illinois and city leaders gathered at Union Station in downtown Chicago Friday to cheer $1.2 billion in federal stimulus money heading to the state for high-speed rail.
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ID: Idaho mulls no tax dollars for parks
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Not one of the 50 states is running its park system as Gov. Butch Otter hopes to achieve for Idaho: without state tax support.
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ID: Possible DNA bill faces funding roadblock
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Idaho was one of only three states that didn't require DNA to be taken from every convicted felon last year.
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ID: Performance pay for teachers, a possible way to earn more money
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Teachers, like most people, aren't getting raises anytime soon.
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IL: Quinn pledges $45 million for rail line
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Illinois Gov. Pat Quinn said Saturday that passenger trains could be rolling between the Quad-Cities and Chicago by 2012.
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IL: U of I Extension considers cutbacks
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Add the University of Illinois Extension to the list of entities that hasn't been able to collect what is owed by the state.
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IL: Watch state spend wildly at new website
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state's budget mess is a ticking time bomb and now Illinois residents can watch as it explodes.
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IL: Giannoulias admitted to most controversial bank loans
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Democratic U.S. Senate candidate David Hoffman cited a New York Times column Sunday morning saying front-runner Alexi Giannoulias needs to answer questions about what loans he approved as vice president and chief loan officer for Broadway Bank from 2002 to 2006.
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IL: Play or lose out, towns told
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Towns and counties that bar video poker could lose out on state construction dollars under newly filed legislation that could be a prelude to a spring showdown in Springfield.
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IL: Exelon says it'll join Illinois' FutureGen Alliance
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Exelon Corp. announced Saturday that it plans to join the FutureGen Alliance, an organization developing an experimental clean-coal power plant in eastern Illinois.
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IL: Quinn says he's cut all the frills from state government
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Defending his handling of the state's deficit-plagued budget, Democratic Gov. Pat Quinn said today he's "cut all the frills" out of state government but more tax money is needed to fund essential services.
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IL: Illinois adds Powerball to lottery game lineup
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gladys Aponte says she's generally not willing to give up a dollar for a lottery ticket — except when the Mega Millions jackpot surpasses $100 million.
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IL: Infrequent Metra riders to pay more
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Commuter rail line hikes cost of one-way, weekend tickets, on-board surcharge, starting Monday.
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IL: EPA targets chemical often dumped in Chicago sewers
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Chemicals used in Scotchgard and Teflon are regulated, but metal plating companies got a pass by Bush's EPA.
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IN: NWI could get more federal railroad funding
From: feeds.stateline.org
"GARY, Ind. -- Northwest Indiana's hopes of obtaining $2.8 billion in federal funding for a Chicago-Cleveland railroad corridor have not been derailed.
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IN: Not in the cards? Casino bet backfires
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Democrats at the Statehouse took a gamble this year on land-based casinos. Instead of filing bills in both chambers, they tried to push a bill first through the Republican-led Senate.
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IN: Report -- Indiana counties could save cash with vote centers
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A new report says all 92 Indiana counties could save money if they used vote centers on Election Day instead of traditional precinct locations.
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IN: Casinos hit, bust on move to land
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Facing increased competition from surrounding states for gamblers, Indiana lawmakers had coalesced around the idea of allowing its casinos to rebuild on land.
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IN: Tax cap opponents have tough sell
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Numerous mayors, teachers, farmers, firefighters and business executives aren't happy with the idea of writing property tax caps into Indiana's Constitution.
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IN: ISU will cut 108 jobs to meet lower budget
From: feeds.stateline.org
"TERRE HAUTE, Ind. -- Indiana State University says it plans to eliminate 108 jobs as a result of state budget cuts.
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KS: Lawmakers -- No raises for state employees
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Republican legislative leaders on Friday said there will probably be no pay raise this year for state employees.
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KS: Kansas tax collections come up $18 million short in January
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Kansas tax collections fell $18 million short of expectations in January.
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KS: Lawmakers see savings in consolidation of services
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Kansans like government.
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KY: Waste-tire bill stalls after changes
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A fund that's helped clean up millions of littered tires in Kentucky since 1998 is being threatened in the General Assembly, state officials say.
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KY: Renewable energy requirement urged in Ky.
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Kentucky should join 27 other states that have adopted laws requiring that at least some electricity be generated from renewable energy sources, a governor's task force recommends.
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KY: Bond issuance to help pension fund draws support
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Both Republicans and Democrats appear to support the governor's proposal to issue $816 million in bonds to repay money that the state has shifted from the teachers' pension fund for the past six years to cover retirees' health insurance costs.
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MA: Tipping the balance
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The city of Lynn spent $22 million this year on retirement costs. That's more than the cash-strapped city allotted for any other department, including the police, fire, and public works departments.
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MA: Stimulus funds credited with 9,261 full-time jobs in Bay State
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Governor Deval Patrick announced over the weekend that federal stimulus money funded the equivalent of 4,722 full-time jobs in the state during the last three months of 2009. But the number is almost double that.
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MA: Powerball gets rolling in Mass.
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Local gamblers are rejoicing: They can now end those trips across the border for a shot at the Powerball jackpot.
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MA: 'It's the economy, stupid'
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Deval Patrick is going to have a tough time getting re-elected if past economic trends during election years are any indication. Political observers have long noted the obvious: Sitting presidents, congressmen, governors and the parties in power feel the wrath of voters anytime the economy tanks, unemployment rises and government budgets are thrown into chaos.
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MA: Clean energy group launches TV ads aimed at Brown
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A clean energy group inspired by Democrat Al Gore is launching an advertising campaign aimed at newly elected Republican Scott Brown.
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MD: Obama, GOP spar in a rare encounter
From: feeds.stateline.org
"BALTIMORE — In a remarkably sharp face-to-face confrontation, President Barack Obama chastised Republican lawmakers Friday for opposing him on taxes, health care and the economic stimulus, while they accused him in turn of brushing off their ideas and driving up the national debt.
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MD: GOP's Mica calls Maryland rail money 'peanuts'
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WASHINGTON - While Maryland politicians are praising the $70 million in stimulus dollars the state received Thursday for high-speed rail improvements, the ranking Republican on the House Transportation Committee, Rep. John Mica of Florida, called Maryland's share "peanuts" and "an insult."
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ME: Bill would halt caps on benefits
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Maine lawmakers are trying to forbid health insurers from capping the amount of benefits a policyholder can receive. If successful, Maine would become the first state to outlaw the practice.
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ME: PUC to hold hearings on CMP power line project
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Central Maine Power Co.'s $1.5 billion plan to build and reconstruct 350 miles of transmission lines is about to be reviewed at a series of public hearings stretching over two weeks.
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ME: Legislature considering bill to remap flood plains
From: feeds.stateline.org
"As ice jammed Maine's Kennebec River this week, lawmakers have been considering a bill that aims to help plan for future floods.
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ME: Baldacci touts rail service expansion
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. John Baldacci is touting the benefits of extending passenger rail service 30 miles north from Portland to Brunswick.
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ME: Stimulus bill gets mixed response
From: feeds.stateline.org
"AUGUSTA, Maine — With Senate approval of the House's narrowly approved $154 billion stimulus bill unlikely, members of Maine's congressional delegation say some additional measures to help the economy recover are likely to be adopted.
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MI: Fast track to Port Huron?
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The plan calls for a high-speed rail line from Chicago to Dearborn. So what does that mean for Port Huron?
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MI: Granholm embraces reform agenda, says will produce budget savings
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Jennifer Granholm says more than $300 million could be saved next year by offering 45,000 retirement-eligible public employees carrots, and sticks, to leave their jobs by Sept. 30.
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MI: State budget woes could end 104-year run for Shrine Circus at Michigan State Fairgrounds
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Budget cuts may prevent the Shrine Circus from returning to the Michigan State Fairgrounds, which has hosted the event for more than 100 years.
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MI: Michigan's future is on the line
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Great Lakes State, its economy built on high-paying blue-collar jobs in the 20th century, is transforming. Not quickly. Not easily. Not without pain.
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MI: Amtrak to upgrade Mich. rails
From: www.detnews.com
"WASHINGTON -- After a disappointment earlier this week, funding for high-speed rail for Michigan is getting back on track, federal railroad officials said Friday.
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MI: Michigan Lottery adds big-ticket Powerball to game choices
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Michigan lottery fans are getting another chance to win big money with the introduction Sunday of Powerball, a change approved with an eye on adding to the state's coffers.
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MI: Granholm -- Let's retire 46,000 public employees
From: feeds.stateline.org
"In a stroke that could dramatically restructure the workforce of state government and public schools, Gov. Jennifer Granholm today said she'll prod into retirement 39,000 teachers and 7,000 state employees with at least 30 years of service, and double the cost public employees pay for health care coverage as part of her final year plan to reshape and downsize the cost of state government.
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MI: Granholm's agenda -- Chop $450 million
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Declaring Michigan's once prosperous manufacturing economy gone forever, Gov. Jennifer Granholm offered bold steps Friday to cut the cost of state government and schools by prodding 46,000 state and school employees into retirement and requiring new state employees to pay twice as much as current ones for their health insurance.
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MI: Protesters gear up for Granholm's address
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Students upset about cuts to education funding and groups leery of possible tax increase proposals are among those expected to protest Wednesday outside Michigan Gov. Jennifer Granholm's eighth and final State of the State address.
"
MI: Granholm was riding high in '03
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Looking back, it's hard to recall what it was we thought Jennifer Granholm was going to do. But when she became Michigan's first female governor on Jan. 1, 2003, it seemed like a no-brainer: Anyone with all that energy, intelligence, self-assurance and charisma would be able to do it.
"
MI: Granholm was riding high in '03
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Looking back, it's hard to recall what it was we thought Jennifer Granholm was going to do. But when she became Michigan's first female governor on Jan. 1, 2003, it seemed like a no-brainer: Anyone with all that energy, intelligence, self-assurance and charisma would be able to do it."
MI: Powerball joins lottery games
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Michigan lottery retailers opened for business Sunday with a new way for customers to win big: Powerball.
"
MN: Minneapolis to support limits to unallotment
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Minneapolis Mayor R.T. Rybak and the Minneapolis City Council said Friday that they intend to file a "friend of the court" brief in support of a Ramsey County District Court decision limiting Gov. Tim Pawlenty's use of unallotment.
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MN: House DFL leaders propose tax relief plan
From: feeds.stateline.org
"One week before the Legislature convenes, DFL leaders proposed a series of small-scale tax relief proposals Friday that they said would cost taxpayers little but create jobs and perhaps even start the Mall of America's long-awaited second phase.
"
MN: Haitian orphans find Minnesota homes
From: feeds.stateline.org
"ST. JOSEPH, Minn. -- Two families have added a trio of Haitian orphans to their homes, a difficult undertaking almost sabotaged by the recent earthquake that rocked the Caribbean nation.
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MN: Budget crunch is hitting Minnesota Capitol this week
From: feeds.stateline.org
"This could be a "good news-bad news" session for the Minnesota Legislature.
"
MN: DFL Party's plan for new jobs -- tax breaks
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Minnesota House Democrats on Friday unveiled a package of 10 tax breaks they intend to pass quickly in the 2010 legislative session to spark job creation.
"
MO: Mo. may seize bank funds for overdue taxes
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Missourians with overdue taxes may soon have more difficulty avoiding payment.
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MO: Missouri governor's budget proposal would trim into social safety net
From: feeds.stateline.org
"About $1.4 million in state funds reaches 844 teen parents and at-risk youths in nine sites across Missouri, connecting them with mentors and delivering parenting tips and life skills.
"
MO: Missouri contests ruling on factory farm buffer zone
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Just a year ago, some thought they had won a big victory in keeping the Arrow Rock State Historic Site free of hog manure odors.
"
MS: Lawmakers don't have time for toys
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Mississippi lawmakers are up to their eyeballs with the budget mess, and that doesn't leave much time for frivolity.
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MS: State House committee to consider lottery bill
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State Rep. Alyce Clark said she's tired of seeing Mississippi residents cross state lines to play lotteries in Louisiana, Tennessee and Arkansas, and she wants to keep that money at home.
"
MS: Annexation attempts under fire
From: feeds.stateline.org
"TUPELO, Miss. – A series of bills introduced in the Legislature this session would make annexation attempts like Tupelo's current effort nearly impossible.
"
MT: Brown announces state Senate re-election bid
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Roy Brown, the 2008 Republican gubernatorial candidate and veteran politician from north-central Billings, announced his state Senate re-election bid Saturday.
"
MT: Stimulus cash used to explain domestic violence programs
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Stimulus money is being used by the Montana Board of Crime Control to offer presentations about the state's domestic violence programs in communities throughout Montana.
"
MT: New power lines' effect on Montanans hard to predict
From: feeds.stateline.org
"As huge power line projects in Montana are pitched as the catalyst for a new wave of wind power development here, Public Service Commissioner Brad Molnar, R-Laurel, is asking whether the lines might end up harming Montana electricity consumers.
"
MT: Montana, Wyoming see benefits from land fund grants
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The best-known account that pays for federal land purchases is the Land and Water Conservation Fund.
"
MT: Montana Lottery announces new keno-like game
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Montana Lottery is introducing a new keno-like game called 10 Spot.
"
MT: Montana AIDS patients not getting vital medications because of economy
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A Montana health official says the tough economy is making it difficult for people in the state with HIV or AIDS to get vital medications.
"
MT: Possible raise wouldn't have big effect on Dennison's retirement benefits
From: feeds.stateline.org
"University of Montana President George Dennison's surprise announcement last week that he plans to retire in August had a lot of people questioning whether a possible $75,000 raise – to bring his salary in line with that of the new Montana State University president – might affect his retirement benefits.
"
NC: Easley's campaign is broke, report says
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The campaign committee of former Gov. Mike Easley is broke, according to a report filed late Friday.
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NC: Ruling may help politics as usual
From: feeds.stateline.org
"As I talked with Democratic and Republican consultants, lawyers and elections experts last week, there seemed to be little consensus about the impact of the court's ruling, except that North Carolina and the country are headed into uncharted territory in the fall elections.
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NC: Beauty boss was wrongly fired, judge says
From: feeds.stateline.org
"An administrative law judge has decided that the former head of the state agency that oversees beauty salons was improperly fired.
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NC: New lottery game has same long odds
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Starting this week, the state lottery is offering two extra chances a week to trade a buck for an unlikely chance at a life without care.
"
NC: N.C. puts its weight behind gluten-free cause
From: feeds.stateline.org
"When state officials sought to shut down a Durham food company last month for marketing bread as gluten-free that tested positive for gluten, cheers went up across the country among those suffering from celiac disease.
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ND: N.D. to add Mega Millions lottery
From: feeds.stateline.org
"North Dakota is joining a group of 32 states that will begin selling tickets to both the Powerball and Mega Millions lottery games on Sunday.
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ND: Final price for fixing downed lines could be massive
From: feeds.stateline.org
"As rural electric cooperatives across much of North Dakota continue working to restore power to the thousands of homes still in the dark, assessing the costs of the damages has to wait.
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ND: Saving Fargo from floods
From: feeds.stateline.org
"FARGO, N.D. -- As community leaders in the Fargo area discuss projects to save North Dakota's largest city from Red River flooding, a mayor whose city has been lauded for its plan to hold back the Red says he should have insisted on something better.
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ND: ND Head Start programs get $3M from federal govt
From: feeds.stateline.org
"North Dakota's congressional delegation says some Head Start programs in North Dakota are getting a total of $3 million in federal money.
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ND: North Dakota has highest rate of residents with more than one job
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Sara Jenson is trying to finalize plans for her August wedding, but it's hard to find time for that when she works three part-time jobs and goes to the University of North Dakota full time.
"
NE: Bennie acts as Lincoln's tea party voice
From: feeds.stateline.org
""It's pretty obvious the silent majority of conservative, freedom-loving Americans have awakened and they're mad as hell," Bob Bennie says.
"
NE: Senator shops idea of legislative recess to stave off special session
From: feeds.stateline.org
"They're holding their collective breath around the Capitol these days, waiting for Feb. 26 and the meeting of the Nebraska Economic Forecasting Advisory Board.
"
NE: Bill would raise limit on customer-generated electricity
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Saunders County farmer Stonie Cooper came to the Capitol on Friday to support raising the limit on the amount of electricity Nebraskans can generate.
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NE: Tax exemptions for Nebraska seniors? Not this year
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Sen. Bob Giese called it the Gray Drain, a takeoff on Brain Drain, but in this case the loss of senior citizens moving to states where they will pay less or no income tax.
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NE: Nebraska farm groups resist checkoff dollars for water
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Nebraska's top agricultural groups don't want money from crop checkoff fees to be used to help solve the state's water problems, such as those in the Republican River basin.
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NE: State, tribal leaders meet to talk about Whiteclay
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A host of state officials flew to western Nebraska on Friday to meet with Oglala Sioux tribal leaders to explore solutions to massive alcohol sales at Whiteclay.
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NE: Nebraska begins licensing sports agents
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Nebraska has begun licensing sports agents who want to represent student-athletes.
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NE: A search for solutions at Whiteclay
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Bruce BonFleur sees more than desperation, more than sadness in the eyes of the men and women he meets every day on the dusty streets of Whiteclay.
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NE: Nebraska lawmakers move to tighten securities regulations
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Nebraska lawmakers are tightening securities' regulations to protect investors in the wake of an alleged investment scam by Grand Island-based First Americans Insurance Services.
"
NH: Obama's job push welcomed in NH
From: feeds.stateline.org
"NASHUA, N.H. – Less than three weeks after he unsuccessfully stumped in Boston for U.S. Senate candidate Martha Coakley, President Barack Obama will be about 35 miles to the northwest tomorrow, this time pitching his own suddenly more moderate agenda, focusing on jobs and the small business community.
"
NH: NH bill would stop pension 'padding'
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A bill in the New Hampshire Legislature aimed at pension "padding" would base payments on public employees' highest level of base salary at the time they retired.
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NH: Concord passenger train plan not quite on track
From: feeds.stateline.org
"New Hampshire's plan to create a passenger rail line between Concord and Boston is seriously ailing - but it's not dead yet.
"
NJ: Is sun setting on N.J. subsidies for solar?
From: feeds.stateline.org
"New Jersey has become one of the country's leaders in solar energy, but renewable-energy advocates fear that reductions in subsidies that spurred the growth may cast a shadow over the industry.
"
NJ: N.J. residents to have say on improving state
From: feeds.stateline.org
"New Jerseyans get the opportunity this week to share their ideas for making the Garden State a better place to live.
"
NJ: Report suggests drastic cuts to N.J. horse racing to save money
From: feeds.stateline.org
"EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. -- A report issued this month to address the financial woes of the New Jersey Sports and Exposition Authority suggested drastically cutting back on horse racing to save money, according to a report in The New York Times.
"
NJ: Christie, New Jersey brace for massive influx of Haitian refugees
From: feeds.stateline.org
"New Jersey is expecting a "surge" of refugees from the devastating Jan. 12 earthquake in Haiti, which would create a humanitarian crisis and put new pressure on a state treasury already in peril, according to confidential documents obtained by The Star-Ledger.
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NJ: Powerball lottery ticket sales are high on first day in N.J.
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Powerball lottery tickets were a popular item on their first day of sale in the Garden State, according to New Jersey lottery officials and retailers.
"
NM: Attorney general seeks reduction in title insurance rates
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Attorney General Gary King is asking the state insurance superintendent to reduce title insurance rates by more than 13.8 percent.
"
NM: Industry -- Blame state's budget woes on regs
From: feeds.stateline.org
"As state legislators in Santa Fe try to close a $500 million budget deficit, the state's oil and gas industry has a message for them: Stop trying to kill the industry that has kept the state's budget afloat.
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NM: Oil output sweetens, natural gas stinks
From: feeds.stateline.org
"New Mexico's oil and gas industry is facing a very lopsided recovery.
"
NV: Reid -- Budget would eliminate Yucca Mountain funds
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WASHINGTON — President Barack Obama's budget will propose withdrawing a license application for a nuclear waste dump at Yucca Mountain in Nevada, Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid said Sunday.
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NV: Laying off workers still would cost taxpayers
From: feeds.stateline.org
"If Gov. Jim Gibbons and legislators decide to lay off thousands of state employees to save money, the state still will be on the hook for paying their unemployment benefits, which would cost more than $1 million a month for every 1,000 workers affected.
"
NY: Bay Staters gear up for Powerball profits
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Powerball tickets made their debut at stores across the commonwealth yesterday, offering the promise of instant multimillionaire status right next to the Twinkies and Marlboro Lights.
"
NY: A prison's fate keeps small town on edge
From: feeds.stateline.org
"MORIAH CENTER, N.Y. -- John Boyea knows all about being in the wrong place at the wrong time. He owns a business in the middle of rural upstate New York's prison belt at a time when the facilities, after decades of debate, are starting to close.
"
NY: Summary of the New York state of the state address
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. David Paterson (D), facing what could be a difficult primary campaign this year, proposed a plan Jan. 6 that he said would fix New York’s shattered finances, rejuvenate its slumping economy and restore trust in government through a series of major ethics reforms.
"
OH: Weatherization projects increase, inspections lag
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State inspectors routinely find mistakes -- from leaky ducts to lead dust -- as crews work to make the homes of low-income Ohioans more energy efficient.
"
OH: State tries to keep inmates busy to lower return rate
From: feeds.stateline.org
"While they're not wearing striped uniforms and busting rocks on a chain gang, Ohio's 51,000 state prisoners are required to do more than lounge in bed and watch TV all day.
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OH: Prison inmate labor saves taxpayer money, build skills
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Ohio's 51,000 prisoners use $2 million worth of toilet paper, drink 1.9 gallons of milk and eat more than 3 million pounds of beef a year.
"
OH: More federal help pursued by Strickland
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Knowing that a budget gap potentially billions of dollars wide may lie ahead, Gov. Ted Strickland yesterday unapologetically said he's pursuing another round of help from the federal government to help Ohio weather the storm.
"
OH: Incandescent bulbs are being phased out, get ready for CFLs
From: feeds.stateline.org
"CLEVELAND -- The anger about FirstEnergy Corp.'s initial effort to distribute energy-efficient compact fluorescent light bulbs has died down.
"
OH: Who is New Models?
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Anyone wishing to find out who bankrolled a campaign to halt Gov. Ted Strickland's plan for slot machines at racetracks was supposed to be able to find out yesterday.
"
OH: Budget cuts pose challenge to new Ohio Historical Society director
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Burt Logan likes a challenge. He has found one at the Ohio Historical Society.
"
OH: Other cities' casinos on track
From: feeds.stateline.org
"TOLEDO, Ohio -- In a city that's fiercely proud of its art museum, zoo and Mud Hens, leaders have squeezed a new picture onto the tourism brochures.
"
OH: State's trauma registry can't be analyzed
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state's trauma registry is understaffed, underfunded and not meeting expectations that it would be used to save lives and improve outcomes of people critically injured in car crashes, fires and shootings.
"
OH: Technical schools strained
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Career- and technical-education officials say flat state funding comes as they are best positioned to help lead Ohio's economic recovery.
"
OK: Plenty of posturing for 2010 legislative session
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State lawmakers on Monday will convene a legislative session that is expected to be marred by budget fights and a boisterous election year.
"
OK: Budget woes hogtie state prison rodeo
From: feeds.stateline.org
"McALESTER, Okla. — State budget shortfalls have forced officials to cancel the annual Oklahoma State Penitentiary Rodeo for 2010, the McAlester Chamber of Commerce has announced.
"
OK: Lawmaker angry with Creek tribe for lawsuit
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A state lawmaker on Friday blasted a federal lawsuit filed by the Muscogee (Creek) Nation against state officials and agencies over revisions made to the state tax code that affect the tribe's tobacco sales.
"
OK: Gov. Brad Henry seeks funding for research projects
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Frustrated his idea didn't get traction last year, Gov. Brad Henry again is pushing efforts to develop a permanent funding source for research projects.
"
OR: Ore. pension board smooths out coming rate hikes
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The board of the Oregon Public Employees Retirement System has voted to take some of the edge off a coming increase in employer pension rates.
"
OR: Oregon legislators say 'Whew,' go back to work
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Oregon's state legislators are sitting pretty. At least prettier than most.
"
OR: Short sales leave Ore. homebuyers-sellers in limbo
From: feeds.stateline.org
"When they made their offer to buy a Southwest Portland home last March, Catriona McCracken and Paul Thiers had every reason to think the deal would rapidly close.
"
OR: Economy squeezes Oregon agricultural workers
From: feeds.stateline.org
"John Moyer says he's never faced work prospects like these. A lifelong cowboy, Moyer has worked for ranchers around Heppner, Ore., since the 1980s.
"
OR: Pacific Ocean threatens to gobble up Oregon beach towns
From: feeds.stateline.org
"For more than a decade, the village of Neskowin has watched the ocean chew away at its shoreline, gobbling up as much as half a football field of beach in places.
"
OR: Lawmakers want to avoid more health care reform
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Oregon Rep. Mitch Greenlick wants to change the state constitution to ensure that every resident has access to health care.
"
OR: State budget, taxes likely to remain top issues
From: feeds.stateline.org
"One statewide campaign about tax measures is over. Another campaign, involving all 60 representatives and 16 of the 30 senators, is about to begin.
"
OR: Annual sessions, 'kicker' changes may go to voters
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Voters are likely to see an annual-sessions ballot measure, with time limits on the sessions, emerge from the session of the Oregon Legislature that starts Monday.
"
OR: Legislators likely to look at job ethics
From: feeds.stateline.org
"One high-profile issue during the legislative session is whether lawmakers will vote to restrict their own employment in state government jobs.
"
OR: Budget weighs on legislators' minds
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Although Oregon lawmakers will not have to wrestle with potential spending cuts of as much as $727 million in their session beginning Monday, still-sagging tax collections and soaring demand for unemployment benefits, human services and college scholarships will compel them to deal with a version of Bill Clinton's mantra from his 1992 presidential campaign.
"
OR: Legislature to revisit inmate early-release law
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Oregon law enforcement leaders are calling for repeal of a controversial law designed to prune prison costs by shaving time off the sentences of thousands of state prison inmates.
"
PA: Gaming Control Board puts three men on exclusion list
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state Gaming Control Board has put three men charged with gambling-related crimes at the Meadows Racetrack & Casino on an "involuntary casino exclusion list," which prohibits them from entering or gambling at any casino in Pennsylvania.
"
PA: State's intermediate units to design graduation tests
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state's 29 intermediate units are working to develop an alternative to the mandatory graduation exams the state will spend $201 million to develop.
"
PA: Bill allowing towns to contract with state police to be aired
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A controversial bill to permit communities without police departments to contract with state police for protection will take center stage at a public hearing Thursday in Hempfield.
"
RI: Westminster Street shows signs of struggle in challenging economy
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The store closings came in quick succession on downtown Westminster Street.
"
RI: Medicaid enrollment, costs on rise in Rhode Island
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state's Medicaid rolls grew by more than 1,000 people a month during the second half of 2009, shooting upward as more Rhode Islanders turned to the state for help after losing their jobs and their health insurance.
"
SC: Herriott to lead research campus
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The University of South Carolina has chosen a former pharmaceutical executive to direct its new research campus in Columbia.
"
SD: Knudson -- Split tourism, development
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A new bill sponsored by a candidate for governor would rearrange the state Department of Tourism and State Development into separate departments.
"
TN: 'Stark cuts' coming in Bredesen's final Tennessee spending plan
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Phil Bredesen will detail what legislative leaders are calling "stark cuts" in services in a televised speech tonight.
"
TX: Powerball lottery game rolls into Texas with $107 million jackpot
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The lottery landscape got a little more complicated Sunday with the first day of ticket sales for the multistate Powerball. Some retailers think letting Texans play Powerball will take money away from old lottery favorites.
"
TX: Kinky Friedman says run for ag chief is serious
From: feeds.stateline.org
"LUBBOCK, Texas -- If nothing else, Kinky Friedman is making agriculture sexy. The entertainer – characterized by his signature cigar, black hat and wry one-liners – has given the agriculture commissioner race sudden allure.
"
US: Obama budget freezes much domestic spending
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WASHINGTON — President Obama will send a $3.8 trillion budget to Congress on Monday for the coming fiscal year that would increase financing for education and for civilian research programs by more than 6 percent and provide $25 billion for cash-starved states, even as he seeks to freeze much domestic spending for the rest of his term.
"
UT: Utah Legislature -- House ethics bills ready for hearings
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The package of state House ethics bills was filed Friday, and they will have their first public hearings this week.
"
UT: Utahns conflicted on in-state tuition for undocumented immigrants
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Utahns continue to be divided about whether the state should allow students who are undocumented immigrants but graduates of state high schools to pay in-state tuition.
"
UT: Study finds most Utahns pay less under 5 percent flat tax
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A study of tax filings shows most Utahns are paying less under the new 5 percent flat rate income tax system than under the old progressive tax system.
"
UT: Another Legislative year, another axe for disabled services?
From: feeds.stateline.org
"During Christmas vacation, Broderick Leiataua took his mother's hand several times a day and guided her to the door.
"
VA: Plan to extend state benefits to same-sex partners is withdrawn
From: feeds.stateline.org
"On the advice of Attorney General Ken Cuccinelli, a proposed state regulatory change to allow government employees to add same-sex partners to their state health benefits has been withdrawn from consideration.
"
VA: Va. joins states offering Powerball tickets
From: feeds.stateline.org
"DES MOINES, Iowa -- Virginia has joined the dozens of states selling Powerball and Mega Millions tickets in what could be a step toward an eventual national lottery.
"
VA: Bolling's role -- point man for McDonnell jobs plan
From: feeds.stateline.org
"It takes money to make money. That's the position of Gov. Bob McDonnell's administration, which, despite a $4 billion budget hole, has put forth a plan for $50 million in new spending, meant to help cut the state's creeping unemployment rate and boost state coffers.
"
VA: Va.'s laws on charter schools could ease
From: feeds.stateline.org
"With a pro-charter school administration at the helm, Virginia's relatively tough laws regulating the specialty schools could soon change.
"
VA: City targets derelict homes by leveraging new state law
From: feeds.stateline.org
"When Derrick McCraw bought a house in South Bayview in 1992, he didn't think anything of the boarded-up white bungalow across the street.
"
VT: Utilities watch closely as Vermont Yankee's future grows more questionable
From: feeds.stateline.org
"There was a time when Mary Powell thought Vermont Yankee's future and how much her company, Green Mountain Power Corp., would pay for power from the plant would all be settled in 2009.
"
VT: Vermont urged to enforce junkyard rules
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Back-road junkyards are common across Vermont. So, too, are the municipal disputes, court cases and neighborhood feuds they provoke.
"
VT: Facing the harsh reality of paying for college
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WINOOSKI, Vt. — If all goes well, 18-year-old Emily Sikorski will be enrolled at one of the following colleges next year: St. Michael's College in Colchester; Smith or Mount Holyoke in Massachusetts; or Carleton in Minnesota.
"
VT: Free ferry revives Champlain Bridge link
From: feeds.stateline.org
"ADDISON, Vt. — Ferry service linking Addison with Crown Point, N.Y., will begin at 5 a.m. today. When the ferry Cumberland pulls from its Vermont berth, it will end more than three months' disruption to commercial, commuter and tourist traffic following the safety-mandated closure and demolition of the Champlain Bridge.
"
VT: Vermont considers boiler buyback program
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Cliff Gross of Bradford says the smoke from a neighbor's outdoor wood furnace seeps into his house, making him cough, causing sore throats and subjecting him and his wife to sleepless nights.
"
WA: How the aged and frail are exploited in Washington's adult family homes
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Adult family homes in the state are seen as a national model, and in King County alone, they've become more plentiful than Starbucks stores. But the explosive growth, fueled by profiteers and a lack of careful state regulation, is leaving thousands of people vulnerable to harm.
"
WA: Spokane County, city eye joint use of Pine Lodge facilities for jail
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Washington state will delay plans to close the Pine Lodge Corrections Center for Women to see whether it can be shared with Spokane County and the city of Spokane.
"
WA: Salaries soared at regional universities
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Raises have been scarce and budget cuts common at colleges dealing with the fallout from the worst state budget in memory. But between January 2007 and January 2009, the largest paychecks at Washington State University got quite a bit larger.
"
WA: Analysis -- Eyman, foes need each other in tax fight
From: feeds.stateline.org
"As conservative activist Tim Eyman and his adversaries on the political left clock in for their annual donnybrook, an intriguing facet of their relationship stands out: This year, perhaps more than ever, these sworn enemies need each other.
"
WA: Lawmaker -- 'We're not going back' on 520 bridge design
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Seattle Mayor Mike McGinn and House Speaker Frank Chopp may have their preferences for replacing the 520 Bridge, but changing the agreement for a six-lane open span open to autos now would send the wrong signal in a bad economy, an Eastside senator says.
"
WI: Group proposes sales tax increase to fund schools
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Tom Beebe has an idea for raising $850 million a year for Wisconsin schools, easing property taxes for homeowners and buying some time to devise a long-term solution to the state's Byzantine school funding system — raise the state's 5 percent sales tax by 1 percentage point.
"
WI: Bill would establish standards for honey in Wis.
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Standards for selling honey in Wisconsin would be established under a bill making its way through the Legislature.
"
WI: Wisconsin pension fund to borrow to invest
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Joseph Johnson admits he doesn't know all the ins and outs of economics, but he says he understands the dangers of debt.
"
WI: State to help Waukesha study impact of water diversion
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Promising careful scrutiny of Waukesha's pending bid to pump Lake Michigan water out of the Great Lakes drainage basin, state officials said Friday they will help, but not order, the city to complete a comprehensive environmental impact study for the project.
"
WI: As MPS fights budget squeeze, 11 schools lose SAGE funds
From: feeds.stateline.org
"When the principal of A.E. Burdick Elementary School gathered his staff last week to talk about next year's projected budget, his presentation was met with stunned silence.
"
WI: Towns aim to establish farming zone
From: feeds.stateline.org
"If the two towns win the agricultural enterprise area designation, they would become one of the first such areas in the state.
"
WV: Smoking allowed in Capitol offices
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Again this year, state Sen. Dan Foster will push for a tax hike on cigarettes and for a statewide smoking ban. There's one crusade he won't take on, however. That's a ban on smoking in legislative offices at the Capitol.
"
WV: Latest, longest Massey tree-sit protest ends
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Two environmental activists on Friday ended the latest -- and longest -- protest action against Massey Energy as the one-year anniversary approaches of the start of a peaceful civil disobedience campaign against mountaintop-removal mining.
"
WV: Campaign targets state public health insurer
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Groups representing West Virginia teachers and school workers are challenging recent decisions by the Public Employees Insurance Agency with a joint advertising and lobbying campaign.
"
WV: News site has extensive ties to conservative groups
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Watchdog site and its parent organization, the Public Policy Foundation of West Virginia, are part of an extensive network of conservative groups across the country.
"
WY: Freudenthal to discuss hopes for wind-energy tax
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Dave Freudenthal has scheduled a news conference to discuss his proposals for new laws for Wyoming's wind energy industry.
"
WY: Legislature has $18.5M to spend
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The full Legislature will have $18.5 million to spend over and above the state budget as the result of Joint Appropriations Committee budget work, Rep. Rosie Berger said.
"
WY: State argues for wolf control
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Lawyers for the state told a federal judge Friday morning that Wyoming should be given control over wolves in the state, calling the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's rejection of Wyoming's wolf management plan "arbitrary and capricious."
"
WY: RMP asks for $16.3M rate decrease
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Wyoming's largest electric utility, Rocky Mountain Power, has requested a $16.3 million rate decrease which, if approved, would go into effect in April.
"
WY: Delegation fights for fair trona trade
From: feeds.stateline.org
"GREEN RIVER, Wy. -- The state's Congressional delegation is accusing China of unfair trade practices to the detriment of Wyoming's soda ash industry and is asking U.S. trade representatives for help.
"
WY: Who pays, who saves?
From: feeds.stateline.org
"With major state funding cuts to cities and towns looming, state and local government officials are each saying the other side should look to its cash reserves to make up the difference.
"
Primary season starts, and govs could fall
From: feeds.stateline.org
"
 |
On Tuesday, Illinois Gov. Pat Quinn will defend a challenge for his seat from a fellow Democrat. Although primary season is typically safe for sitting governors, Quinn is one of six governors (out of the 15 governors running for re-election in 2010) who could face strong competition from within the ranks of their own party.
"
Weekly wrap: Govs seek to prop up budget reserve funds
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Depleted rainy day funds prompt review; Toyota’s temporary sales suspension could impact state revenue; Ohio loses an iconic employer; and new studies released on recession, state stimulus web sites.
"
Visit the Stateline.org Economy & Business Page
From: feeds.stateline.org
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