Quinn survives — For now
From: feeds.stateline.org
"CHICAGO — The governor of Illinois has nine months to win over a clearly frustrated state electorate.
See also: Primary season starts, and govs could fall
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Governors talk energy with Obama
From: feeds.stateline.org
"TODAY'S TAKE: President Obama on Wednesday (Feb. 3) told a group of 11 governors — including those from coal-friendly states — that the United States must move aggressively toward a clean energy economy.
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AK: Bill calls for expanding Legislature
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State Rep. Carl Gatto says it's a perfect time to talk about moving Alaska's capital out of Juneau.
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AK: Legislature examining corporate campaigning
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Alaska lawmakers say it appears all bets are now off when it comes to corporate and union spending in Alaska elections, with no limits allowed or any requirements for disclosure after the recent landmark U.S. Supreme Court ruling.
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AK: Dems fire back at oil industry ads
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Democrats in the Alaska House of Representatives are criticizing the oil industry's "Faces of Aces" ads as misleading, but the oil industry group that sponsored them say it's the state's politicians who are out of touch.
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AL: Alabama operators vie to lure bets
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Casino operators in Biloxi, Miss., got an unpleasant jolt last month when a big shiny blimp floating over their Gulf Coast rooftops invited gamblers to try their luck — but not at their complexes.
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AL: Riley defends trooper raids on gambling machines
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Bob Riley said Wednesday he decided to crack down on gambling machines because some prosecutors in Alabama were unwilling to enforce gambling laws as electronic bingo games spread.
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AL: Poll shows Alabamians oppose Riley bingo raids
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Christian Coalition says it opposes gambling in Alabama, but it did the unexpected Wednesday and released poll results showing that nearly two-thirds of Alabamians disapprove of Gov. Bob Riley's raids on electronic bingo casinos.
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AL: Redstone TIF bill on House agenda Thursday
From: feeds.stateline.org
"he Alabama House will finally take up a bill Thursday that would permit Huntsville to create a special tax increment finance, or TIF, district for a $1 billion development at Redstone Arsenal.
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AL: Pate testifies he called AG's office about Bessemer city councilwoman
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Tuscaloosa businessman Stan Pate testified today that he contacted Attorney General Troy King with concerns that a Bessemer City Council member might have misused funds he donated to her.
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AL: 1 in 8 Alabamians lack bank account
From: feeds.stateline.org
"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: Hearing on charter schools draws crowd
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The issue of whether the state should pass charter school legislation this year pitted two of the most powerful factions in the state -- business and education -- against one another.
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AL: Divided Alabama leaders make it harder to enforce bingo laws, Jefferson County district attorney says
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Jefferson County district attorney Brandon Falls said today that heated words between Alabama's governor and its attorney general over bingo have a trickle-down effect on his work in the state's largest county.
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AR: Panel -- Lottery-funded scholarships should be $5,000 for four-year schools
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The legislative committee that oversees the state lottery decided today to recommend that lottery-funded college scholarships be set at $5,000 per year to a attend a four-year school and $2,500 per year to attend a two-year school.
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AZ: House panel OKs easing Sunday alcohol rules
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State lawmakers want to make it easier for you to get a buzz on Sunday morning — or at least have an early champagne brunch — even if you didn't plan ahead and buy your liquor the night before.
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AZ: Legislature considers tax-credit overhaul
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State lawmakers on Wednesday proposed a sweeping overhaul of the private-school tax-credit system that would increase donation limits by at least 50 percent but add key disclosures and more accountability.
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AZ: House committee to work on package of budget bills
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The House of Representatives will take up the deficit-reduction bills today in what leaders hope will be a one-day blitz of work.
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CA: Schwarzenegger -- Florida known for 'old people'
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger says Florida is "for the old people" and that no one wants to take a vacation in Iowa.
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CA: Furlough end run could help create jobs
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state has lost 106,000 construction jobs in the past year, and the bureaucratic bottleneck is choking off desperately needed work.
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CA: Tax auditors keep tabs on bars by imbibing
From: feeds.stateline.org
"So, these three Board of Equalization auditors walk into a bar, and take out a hydrometer, a thermometer and a funnel. Only they can't decide how much to tip the bartender. That's not a joke – it's a dilemma.
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CA: Lawmaker wants Toyotas out of the Capitol garage
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A state assemblyman who represents Toyota's North American headquarters in Torrance is so peeved by the automaker's safety problems and its recent decision to close a California plant that he's asking his colleagues to stop buying the Japanese-made hybrid cars.
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CO: Ferrandino weighs taking on payday loan industry in Colorado
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The payday loan industry gouges Coloradans like it does Americans across the country, targeting mostly low-income single women, including military spouses.
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CO: Colorado oil, gas output rises
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Colorado oil and gas production — despite the recession and new state drilling rules — rose about 4 percent in 2009, according to Colorado Oil and Gas Conservation Commission estimates.
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CO: Bill sets rules for Colorado pot shops
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State lawmakers on Wednesday unveiled a bill that would make major changes to Colorado's medical-marijuana industry, allowing retail-style dispensaries to remain open but forcing them to reorganize as licensed, nonprofit "health centers."
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CO: CU dentists seek licenses as officials seek clearer law
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Four of five dentists whose licensure was in question for months will resume seeing patients and supervising students at the University of Colorado dental school after obtaining licenses from the state.
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CT: Governor gives her final State Of The State address
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. M. Jodi Rell called for a new era of political civility Wednesday as she offered an $18.91 billion, no-tax-increase budget that includes the legalization of keno electronic gambling and provides loan guarantees to spur small businesses to create jobs in a sluggish economy.
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CT: Committee to examine education funding
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state Board of Education will convene a new committee this year to examine a comprehensive overhaul of state education funding, including money for magnet, charter and traditional public schools.
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CT: Business, jobs high on the list
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. M. Jodi Rell's fiscal 2011 budget includes a multipronged attempt to shore up struggling businesses, flood Connecticut with new credit for small-scale business borrowers and stimulate job growth.
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CT: Aid to cities and towns remains largely intact
From: feeds.stateline.org
"As the Capitol braces for more budget combat, one huge chunk of discretionary spending is once again spared major cuts: aid to cities and towns.
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CT: Rell -- State's financial quagmire can no longer be ignored
From: feeds.stateline.org
"In the final budget address of her tenure, Gov. M. Jodi Rell Wednesday proposed sending the state down a path toward structural overhaul and government reform.
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CT: Rell's budget proposal had some applauding; others had more reserved reactions on the Legislature's first day
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State Sen. Dan Debicella, R-Shelton, did a lot of clapping today. At one point, he even jumped out of his seat and gave Gov. M. Jodi Rell a standing ovation.
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CT: Aetna lays off 625, including 100 in state
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Aetna employees learned Wednesday if they were among about 625 to be laid off this week.
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CT: Attorney General angry over AIG bonuses
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Connecticut's attorney general and two state lawmakers on Wednesday stepped into the latest furor over bonuses for employees of AIG, the giant insurer saved from extinction by an epic taxpayer bailout.
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CT: Rell's jobs stimulus -- Loan, credit ideas deepen well-used state strategies
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Expanding state loan guarantees, lending directly to small businesses and offering tax credits to more companies for hiring workers are the heart of Gov. M. Jodi Rell's vision for economic development — three strategies used by the state for years.
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CT: State educators hail Obama's budget proposals
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State education leaders say they're pleased that President Barack Obama's proposed education budget would overhaul the Bush administration's test-based No Child Left Behind law with a more competitive approach that rewards reforms designed to raise student achievement, improve teaching and inspire students to excel in math and science.
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DE: More Delawareans turn to pantries for help feeding families
From: feeds.stateline.org
"More than one in every four people in Delaware received food from a charity pantry last year, a new survey found.
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DE: Union OKs contract with buyer of Delaware City refinery
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Local United Steelworkers union members have overwhelmingly approved contract terms for a potential reopening of the Delaware City Refinery, a national union spokeswoman said Wednesday.
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DE: Pooled resources prove helpful to job seekers
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Liz Purcell needed to implement a job training program. Wanda Nesbit saw a lot of patrons of the Dover Public Library filling out job applications.
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FL: Justice defends ruling on finance
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WASHINGTON — In expansive remarks at a law school in Florida, Justice Clarence Thomas on Tuesday vigorously defended the Supreme Court's recent campaign finance decision.
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FL: Florida GOP fundraiser's hefty pay riles donors
From: feeds.stateline.org
"For the past year, Delmar Johnson mixed and mingled with the well-heeled and powerful, chasing checks from large Republican donors from fishing piers in Key West to a football stadium in Boston.
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FL: Crystal River nuclear plant to be repaired by midyear, Progress Energy says
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Repairs to a cracked reactor building containment wall could keep the Crystal River nuclear plant off line until midyear, Progress Energy says.
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FL: Tax-hikes may be delayed
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The race is on to head off massive unemployment-tax hikes that threaten most Florida businesses at the end of April.
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FL: Technology plays a big role for Super Bowl
From: feeds.stateline.org
"While you're enjoying the Super Bowl, cellphone carriers are tripling capacity near the stadium, GPS tracking systems will be monitoring VIPs and more than 250 journalists will be devouring broadband.
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FL: No easy fix for troubled Jackson
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Miami-Dade's healthcare leaders agreed Wednesday that the county dare not let the beleaguered Jackson Health System fail, but no one yet has a clear idea of how to keep it going.
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GA: Senate bill would pave way for outside medical aid during major event
From: feeds.stateline.org
"If a Katrina-like catastrophe hit Georgia it would be difficult for volunteer doctors, nurses and veterinarians to come into the state and help – simply because they are not licensed here
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GA: GSU -- 18% of Georgians lack health insurance
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Georgia has the fifth-most number of uninsured people in the United States, according to an annual report Wednesday from Georgia State University
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GA: Perdue backs water conservation legislation, study of building new reservoirs
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Sonny Perdue announced Wednesday that he is backing legislation packed with water conservation measures as the Atlanta region faces the prospect of losing Lake Lanier as its main source of drinking water.
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HI: UH president's plan elevates isles' economy with education
From: feeds.stateline.org
"How the University of Hawaii budget fares at the state Capitol is one of several factors that will determine how much tuition could go up at the 10 UH campuses, UH President M.R.C. Greenwood said yesterday after giving a first-ever State of the University speech before a joint session of the Legislature.
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HI: Donors pick favorites for governor
From: feeds.stateline.org
"U.S. Rep. Neil Abercrombie appears to be the favored son of attorneys, while Mayor Mufi Hannemann is the big winner among engineers and heads of companies.
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HI: Legislation would allow casino operations on Hawaiian Home Lands
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Casino operations could take place on Hawaiian Home Lands under a bill that advanced out of the House Hawaiian Affairs Committee yesterday.
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HI: Voters may decide on reshaping BOE
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Two bills that advanced in the state House yesterday would let voters decide if the state Board of Education should be appointed by the governor.
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HI: Foodbank says need rising in Hawaii
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Hawaii Foodbank distributed 1 million more pounds of emergency food in the last fiscal year than it did the previous year, reflecting an upward trend that has seen a nearly 40 percent rise in demand over the past four years.
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HI: For Hawaii, big push to go green is natural
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Watch out, California. Tiny Hawaii is gunning for the title of the nation's green energy capital. It's aiming to obtain 70% of its total energy needs from clean sources within 20 years.
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IA: UI details proposed $73M clinic
From: feeds.stateline.org
"AMES, Iowa --- University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics officials can move forward on a $73 million outpatient clinic project in Coralville with the approval Thursday from the Iowa state Board of Regents.
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IA: Controversial tax proposal resurfaces at statehouse
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A controversial tax proposal has resurfaced at the statehouse, a proposal business groups staunchly oppose.
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IA: Davenport sewer tunnel to receive state funds
From: feeds.stateline.org
"After being rejected for federal stimulus money, Davenport's west side sewer diversion tunnel is finally in line to get some financial help.
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IA: Culver wants prevailing wage law action
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Chet Culver encouraged lawmakers to make a run at prevailing wage legislation that led to a three-day standoff in the Iowa House last year as majority Democrats struggled to find a 51st vote.
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IA: Use of food banks in northeast Iowa on rise, study finds
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Officials of the Northeast Iowa Food Bank says a national survey of hunger in America only confirms what they have been seeing in recent months - increased demand.
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IA: GOP suggests $290 million in savings
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Iowa should eliminate a $25 million program to encourage renewable energy development in Iowa as well as sell or lease the Iowa Communications Network under House Republican budget-saving suggestions released today.
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IA: Tymeson stands by her words
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State Rep. Jodi Tymeson last week was critical of a bill that would allow Iowans who voluntarily quit their jobs to follow a military spouse on relocation to collect unemployment.
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IA: DMACC awarded grant to build wind turbine
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Des Moines Area Community College has been selected to receive a $131,500 state energy program matching grant to assist with the purchase of a wind turbine.
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IA: Ruling is big plus for biodiesel
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WASHINGTON -- Iowa's moribund biodiesel industry got a jolt of life Wednesday as the Obama administration reversed itself and found that the fuel meets federal carbon emission rules.
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IA: State sues 2 firms over manure plan
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The attorney general's office on Wednesday sued two north-central Iowa hog confinement operations for failing to file manure-management plans, believed to be the first such lawsuit in Iowa.
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IA: Lawmakers consider corporate tax reporting change
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Iowa corporations would pay millions more a year in state taxes if Iowa had "combined reporting," a state revenue official told lawmakers Wednesday.
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IA: Lawmaker's proposal would reduce Iowa's counties by half
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Iowa would redraw boundary lines and eliminate at least 49 of its 99 counties under a bill being proposed by a Des Moines representative.
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IA: Culver order pleases labor unions
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Chet Culver bolstered his ties to organized labor Wednesday by signing an executive order sought by construction unions, although he quickly emphasized he won't try to repeal Iowa's right-to-work law.
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IA: Lawmakers OK bill for pro sports gambling
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Legalization of sports betting at Iowa casinos took a step forward Wednesday, but a change in federal law would still be required before wagering on football, golf and other professional sports could begin in the state.
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ID: Legislators approve OK new grazing lease rules
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Legislators on Wednesday approved new state grazing lease rules aimed at helping resolve more than a decade of conflict that has pitted environmental groups against Idaho and the state's traditional ranching interests.
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ID: Idaho Legislature considers scrapping gambling law
From: feeds.stateline.org
"An Idaho legislator wants to drop a law that says police officers must go after office betting pools.
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ID: Idaho Power rewarding CSI for building's efficiency
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Even the carpet is efficient.
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IL: Powerball expansion may be big win for retailers, players, state
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Vince Chiaramonte of Vince's Liquor and Tobacco has been selling lottery tickets at his Loves Park liquor shop since the 1970s. He's heard his customers brag of picking up Powerball tickets in Wisconsin and has occasionally asked them to grab a couple for him.
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IL: NDK submits documents to state's attorney, attorney general, IEPA
From: feeds.stateline.org
"BELVIDERE, Ill. -- Facing a $500 a day fine, NDK Crystal met a Jan. 30 court-ordered deadline to submit documentation to government offices stating what chemicals may have been released into the environment after the Dec. 7 explosion at the company's crystal manufacturing plant.
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IL: State sues Springfield man for allegedly ripping off small businesses
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A Springfield man and the two marketing firms he operates have been sued by the Illinois attorney general's office alleging he committed fraud in soliciting small-business advertising.
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IL: Hungry often choose between eating and rent, heat or fuel, area study finds
From: feeds.stateline.org
"For many clients of Central Illinois Foodbank agencies, it comes down to choosing between eating and paying the rent, or gas for the car, or utilities to stay warm.
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IL: Conservation needed to prevent drain on water reserves
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Is your water too cheap? Maybe if it were more expensive, you'd do more to conserve.
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IN: Daniels in Miami -- football and development
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Mitch Daniels is headed to Miami for the Super Bowl, but it won't be all football for the Indianapolis Colts fan.
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IN: Republican leader opposes inland casinos
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Republican leader in the Indiana House says he'll fight any efforts to pass legislation allowing the state's riverboat casinos to move inland.
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IN: Donnelly pledges to fight for AM General
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Congressman Joe Donnelly vowed Wednesday to fight the Army's plan to stop buying Humvee military vehicles from AM General's plant in Mishawaka.
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IN: Children's center, state hospital survive Indiana Senate vote
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Before passing legislation affecting the Evansville Psychiatric Children's Center and the Evansville State Hospital, the state Senate made sure both hospitals would remain open and patient care would go unchanged.
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IN: Bridges group begins work
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A 14-member bi-state group charged with developing a plan to pay for new bridges to span the Ohio River between Kentucky and Indiana has started its work with a call to consider tolls to fund the project.
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KS: (State) house rules in Kansas casino
From: feeds.stateline.org
"DODGE CITY, Kan. — In an arrangement not replicated anywhere in the U.S., the state of Kansas owns the new Boot Hill Casino & Resort —the slot machines, the blackjack tables, the chips, all of it, right down to the last pair of dice.
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KS: Medical marijuana bill now in Kansas House
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The peaceful plains of Kansas wouldn't seem to be fertile ground for medical marijuana.
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KS: Kansas Legislature drafts resolution calling on feds to back off
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Legislation telling the U.S. government to butt out of Kansas' affairs is heading to the floor of the Kansas House.
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KS: Recommendations made to reduce infant mortality in Kansas
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Health officials Wednesday issued recommendations aimed at reducing Kansas' infant mortality rate, which is 20 percent higher than the national rate.
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KS: Rail service advocates seek state support
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Proponents of expanded passenger train travel in Kansas urged lawmakers Wednesday to support such expansion and seek federal money to help.
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KS: House Speaker O'Neal representing plaintiffs in lawsuit against state over budget bill
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Kansas House Speaker Mike O'Neal, R-Hutchinson, who has been a vocal critic of schools suing the state, is serving as an attorney for a number of groups that have filed a lawsuit against the state over a budget bill passed by the Legislature.
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KS: Former legislator McKechnie picked to fill regents slot
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Mark Parkinson on Wednesday appointed former legislator Ed McKechnie to the Kansas Board of Regents.
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KS: New legislation in Kansas House would overturn local smoking bans, including Lawrence's
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Advocates of a statewide ban of smoking in public places, criticized a new bill Wednesday that they said would overturn local anti-smoking ordinances, including the one in Lawrence.
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KY: Report -- $14 million spent lobbying legislature
From: feeds.stateline.org
"More than $14 million was spent on lobbying state legislators last year, including about $13.5 million to compensate more than 600 lobbyists, said a report by the Kentucky Legislative Ethics Commission.
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KY: Beshear praises Obama clean-coal directive
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WASHINGTON — Kentucky Gov. Steve Beshear praised President Barack Obama's formation Wednesday of a federal task force to speed development of clean-coal technology.
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KY: Slots debate unaffected by poll
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Some legislators said Wednesday that a new poll showing a majority of Kentuckians favoring video lottery terminals at racetracks isn't likely to improve prospects for expanded gambling during the current legislative session.
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LA: Insurer to drop La. policies
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Hanover Insurance Group plans to shut down two of the three property insurance companies it operates in Louisiana and shift about half of those 15,500 policyholders to another company, insurance officials said Wednesday.
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LA: Unused funds debated
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Lawmakers had a message for the Jindal administration Wednesday on incentive dollars set aside for economic development projects: Spend them or lose them.
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LA: State Civil Service board revises proposal on raises
From: feeds.stateline.org
"About 60,000 state civil service employees would be eligible for a 3 percent to 5 percent annual pay raise, depending on their job evaluations, under a merit pay proposal considered Wednesday.
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LA: LSU hospital gets go-ahead to pursue outsourcing
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state Civil Service Commission gave its approval Wednesday for officials of the Louisiana State University Interim Public Hospital in New Orleans to pursue hiring a contractor to perform janitorial and "environmental services" work, cutting about 144 state jobs in the process.
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MA: Gambling proposal may be gaining
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Massachusetts lawmakers will revive one of Beacon Hill's most contentious issues in the coming weeks with measures to legalize casino gambling and slots at racetracks, betting that desperation to create new jobs and revenue could tip the debate this time around.
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MA: Deval Patrick urges UMass chief to step in line with harsh recession
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Deval Patrick yesterday called on UMass President Jack Wilson to forgo the 15 percent pay raise he accepted while the university system was laying off workers and raising tuition.
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MD: Tax credits part of Md. economic debate
From: feeds.stateline.org
"As the General Assembly searches for methods to spur job creation, Gov. Martin O'Malley and legislators are looking to tax credits as one way to get the economy going.
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ME: Stimulus funding to bridge $2.1 million general assistance gap
From: feeds.stateline.org
"BANGOR, Maine — State health officials have come up with a plan that addresses an estimated $2.1 million reduction in state general assistance subsidy for the next fiscal year.
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ME: Fraser -- OK contract or mill closes
From: feeds.stateline.org
"MADAWASKA, Maine — Fraser Papers Inc. might close its paper mill here, idling about 680 employees, if unions don't help the company escape bankruptcy by accepting a three-year contract that includes $4 million in concessions, a company official said Wednesday.
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ME: Bill would prohibit caps on insurance
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A bill that would prohibit health insurance companies from capping the amount of money they will spend covering policyholders drew an impassioned crowd to the Insurance and Financial Services Committee room at the State House on Wednesday.
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ME: Baldacci -- Maine poised to benefit from biofuels
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WASHINGTON — A presidential energy task force is recommending spending more money to make biofuels, a move that Gov. John Baldacci said Wednesday should help Maine's forestry and papermaking industries.
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ME: Table games sought for Bangor Slots
From: feeds.stateline.org
"With members of the Legislature's Legal and Veterans Affairs Committee considering a range of gambling expansions, Hollywood Slots general manager John Osborne asked lawmakers on Wednesday to authorize table games.
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MI: 400 protesters say they've had enough of Granholm
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Jennifer Granholm's last hurrah inside the state Capitol was paired with an alternative event -- a State of the Citizen demonstration -- outside, where a chilly group of about 400, mostly Tea Party activists wished her not-so-well in retirement.
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MI: Granholm -- New, diverse Michigan economy ahead
From: feeds.stateline.org
"On Wednesday, Gov. Jennifer Granholm said she has laid the groundwork for a new Michigan economy to leapfrog -- but not abandon -- the state's bedrock auto industry.
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MI: Protester says state is now 'a dump'
From: feeds.stateline.org
"If the politicians gathered Wednesday night inside Michigan's Capitol wanted any advice about what they should be doing, they needed to look no farther than the steps outside.
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MI: State of the State -- Many in mid-Michigan could be impacted
From: feeds.stateline.org
"On Wednesday, Gov. Jennifer Granholm laid out a broad agenda to help refashion and position Michigan's economy for the 21st century.
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MI: Agency says hunger is on the rise southern Michigan
From: feeds.stateline.org
"BATTLE CREEK, Mich. -- A national report that says a growing number of Americans are in need of food also shows "hunger is increasing at an alarming rate" in an eight-county area that includes Kalamazoo County, according to the Food Bank of South Central Michigan.
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MI: Granholm wants new Michigan Promise scholarship
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Jennifer Granholm's out the door in 10 months and many in the audience for her eighth and final State of the State speech in the House chambers are running for re-election or another office.
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MI: Mackinac Bridge stamp goes on sale today
From: feeds.stateline.org
"ST. IGNACE, Mich. -- Postal customers across the country soon will get a seagull's-eye view of one of Michigan's most famous landmarks.
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MI: Great Lakes groups to lobby for more funds
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A coalition of Great Lakes groups said today they're disappointed by the 36% cut in restoration funding for the lakes that President Barack Obama proposed as part of next year's budget, and they hope to lobby Congress to boost that funding.
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MN: State has plan to borrow up to $600 million, just in case
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Minnesota's financial picture has become so grim that budget officials are preparing to borrow up to $600 million, in case the state runs out of cash this spring.
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MN: Pawlenty -- Lottery, user taxes could pay for Vikings stadium
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Tim Pawlenty is pointing to lottery funds and user taxes as potential ways to pay for a new Vikings stadium.
"
MO: Nixon pulls nominees from consideration
From: feeds.stateline.org
"In the face of opposition in the Republican-controlled Senate, Gov. Jay Nixon has withdrawn from consideration the names of three Democrats he appointed to state agencies.
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MO: Housing development agency official unexpectedly resigns
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The executive director of the Missouri Housing Development Commission unexpectedly announced his resignation this week.
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MS: Hood to announce multi-million dollar settlement
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Attorney General Jim Hood has scheduled a news conference for Thursday morning where he is expected to announce the settlement of a lawsuit that "will put millions into the state coffers," according to a statement late Wednesday.
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MS: Officials target tax break
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Mississippi's county supervisors and other municipal leaders are asking legislators to rethink a 2005 law that gives a break to federally subsidized housing developments, saying schools and local governments are losing millions in tax dollars.
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MS: Miss. House OKs spring squirrel season
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Mississippi's legion of squirrel hunters got a step closer Wednesday to having a spring season.
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MT: Supporters of levy look to Internet for voters
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Yes, a flash mob is on the list of possibilities.
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MT: Schweitzer, other governors discuss 'clean energy' push with president
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Brian Schweitzer, who joined nine other governors Wednesday at a White House meeting with the president on energy issues, said governors from both parties recognize the need to advance "clean energy" in America.
"
NC: In times of want, state sees less waste
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Here's another sign of the sour economy: We're producing less trash.
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NC: Perdue -- SEANC speaks for state workers
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Bev Perdue has given North Carolina's largest state employee association the authority to represent workers in discussions about workplace conditions, a move that business and conservative groups say is a step toward unionization.
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NC: Aide -- Easley wanted e-mail messages deleted
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Former Gov. Mike Easley's press secretary said in sworn testimony that the governor wanted e-mail messages to and from his office deleted so they would not become public.
"
NC: Treasurer won't drop debt fight
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State Treasurer Janet Cowell wants the legislature to referee a fight with Gov. Bev Perdue's administration over the funding for Interstate 485 in Charlotte - along with the bigger question of who controls the state's credit card.
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NC: Democrats pay to make sure Perdue goes far
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The N.C. Democratic Party serves as something of a travel Web site for Gov. Bev Perdue, only she doesn't have to pay, according to the party's most recent campaign finance disclosure.
"
ND: Less than 100 N.D. homes remain without power
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Nearly two weeks after a storm that caused more than 6,000 homes in North Dakota to lose power, 35 homes still are in the dark.
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ND: N.D. ranks second in nation for economic performance
From: feeds.stateline.org
"North Dakota has again moved up in the rankings of economic performance strengths and weaknesses, according to a new report released Wednesday.
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ND: Grafton seeks permanent flood-control answer
From: feeds.stateline.org
"GRAFTON, N.D. -- City officials here are applying this week for $31.5 million in federal funding for the proposed $42 million Park River Flood Control Project.
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ND: More farmers eyeing tile drainage
From: feeds.stateline.org
"After suffering nearly two decades of wet fields and reduced yields, a growing number of area farmers are finding tile drainage more attractive.
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ND: Sanford approved to sell insurance in ND
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The entry of the Sanford Health Plan will be the first major new health insurance offering in North Dakota since Medica arrived 20 years ago.
"
ND: Environment, wildlife among top concerns
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Environmental and wildlife concerns tied to building a Red River flood diversion channel in Minnesota or North Dakota were among the top concerns discussed in a meeting Wednesday in Fargo.
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NE: Helmet law repeal crashes
From: feeds.stateline.org
"With the support of the bill's introducer, senators voted Wednesday to put off further debate on the bill until Tuesday.
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NE: Auditor questions Husker tickets Nebraska agencies accept
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State agencies are spending more than $1 million a year buying advertising on the Husker Sports Network and using the perks of sports tickets, tailgate passes and other incentives, Nebraska Auditor Mike Foley said Wednesday.
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NE: Lawmakers asked to encourage film making in Nebraska
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Lawmakers were told Nebraska is missing out on moviemaking that could draw dollars and attention to the state.
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NE: Amendment takes aim at health care legislation
From: feeds.stateline.org
"An Omaha state senator would like to amend the Nebraska Constitution to address proposed federal health care legislation.
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NE: Senators get look at new and improved Centennial Mall plan
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The bill (LB715) reaffirms the state's commitment to the importance of the mall and gives the city a chance to show off its plans to lawmakers, said Lincoln Sen. Bill Avery, its sponsor.
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NE: Bill would force state to pay Medicaid claims faster
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Behavioral health providers came to the Capitol Wednesday to add their support to a bill (LB921) that would require the state of Nebraska to pay Medicaid claims more promptly.
"
NH: Power plant(s) crop up
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A Boston investment firm plans to tear down the former Bio Energy facility in Hopkinton and build in its place a $100 million wood-burning power plant along with 20 acres of greenhouses.
"
NJ: N.J. loses $70B in wealth during four years as residents depart
From: feeds.stateline.org
"More than $70 billion in wealth left New Jersey between 2004 and 2008 as affluent residents moved elsewhere, according to a report released Wednesday that marks a swift reversal of fortune for a state once considered the nation's wealthiest.
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NJ: Gov. Chris Christie says Passaic agency hired lobbyists to 'tone down' spending criticism
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Passaic Valley Sewerage Commission regularly spends hundreds of thousands of dollars a year on lobbyists, and now Gov. Chris Christie says the agency is directing its paid advocates to get him to "tone down" his criticism of its spending.
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NJ: No Nets deal without my OK, N.J. Gov. Christie says
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Any deal between the Nets and Devils under which the basketball team would move to Newark is meaningless without state approval, Governor Christie and a key Meadowlands Sports Complex official said Wednesday.
"
NJ: N.J. food banks served growing number of unemployed in difficult economy
From: feeds.stateline.org
"As New Jersey hemorrhaged jobs, food banks and soup kitchens became an indispensable source of support for 830,000 people last year — a 45 percent increase from 2005, according to a survey released today.
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NJ: Former N.J. schools construction employee may have violated conflict of interest rules
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A former state schools-construction employee may have violated ethics rules by looking to move to a company doing school projects while working on that firm's account -- and then lobbying the state for payments for his new employer, according to a report released today by the state Office of Inspector General.
"
NJ: Christie names panel to maximize gaming dollars
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Saying that some of New Jersey's biggest assets have turned into liabilities, Gov. Christie yesterday created a commission that will look for ways to make the most of the Meadowlands and the state's casinos and horse tracks.
"
NM: Measure would nix pit-waste rule
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A Republican legislator from northwestern New Mexico's oil-and-gas-rich San Juan Basin is sponsoring a bill to rescind a controversial rule by the state Oil Conservation Division that tightened pit-waste regulations.
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NM: State lawmakers to guv -- Share the pain
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State lawmakers sent Gov. Bill Richardson a message Wednesday evening: You have to share in more in the state's budget pain, Governor.
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NM: Whistle-blowers could get state protection
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state Senate once again has passed a bill designed to protect government employees from retaliation for reporting official wrongdoing — something backers say is long overdue in New Mexico.
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NV: Budget plan closes Nevada State Prison; 136 NSP jobs would be eliminated
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Nevada State Prison is again on the chopping block as one of the governor's proposed budget cuts.
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NV: Governor's staff proposes $328 million in budget cuts
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Jim Gibbons' senior staff released recommendations Wednesday evening to eliminate 235 jobs, close Nevada State Prison, and cut funding for school districts and higher education by 10 percent each.
"
NV: Raid on local funds getting a closer look
From: feeds.stateline.org
"As state leaders look for ways to address an $881 million budget deficit, the idea of using local government money earmarked for public works projects is gaining support among legislators.
"
NY: Judge says state must pay farmer's legal fees
From: feeds.stateline.org
"New York State picked the wrong farmer to fight. On Wednesday, a state judge ruled that the Adirondack Park Agency will have to pay the legal fees and expenses of Salim B. Lewis, a former Wall Street executive who is one of the state's largest organic farmers.
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NY: Cutbacks on Wall St. are burden for Albany
From: feeds.stateline.org
"New York State officials staring at holes in the budget this time of year generally have had a trusty cushion to fall back on: a mattress stuffed full of Wall Street bonus money.
"
NY: State deficit grows to $8.2B
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Maybe they're taking their cues from Puxsutawney Phil. While the famous groundhog predicted six more weeks of winter Tuesday, Gov. David Paterson offered more stormy news Wednesday on the budget: the 2010-11 budget deficit will grow from $7.4 billion to $8.2 billion.
"
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.
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OH: Owens boosts tuition by 3.5% for next year
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The increase of $4.45 a credit hour will help offset cuts in state funding, said John Satkowksi, executive vice president and chief financial officer of the college.
"
OH: Diebold cutting 250 jobs from Green headquarters, 100 jobs elsewhere
From: feeds.stateline.org
"GREEN, Ohio -- ATM maker Diebold Inc. says that a double-digit decline in orders for its self-service machines and bank security systems across North America is forcing it to cut about 350 full-time jobs, including about 250 in Green, Canton and Jackson Township.
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OH: Third Frontier program to fund high-tech jobs heads back to Ohio voters
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A statewide program credited with seeding Ohio's most promising technologies, from stem cells to fuel cells, needs another boost at the ballot if it is to continue.
"
OH: Strickland on board with Third Frontier compromise
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Ted Strickland had advocated for a $1 billion renewal of the Third Frontier program -- and had complained that a $500 million proposal was "anemic" -- but he is satisfied with the $700 million renewal that the legislature has decided to put on the May 4 statewide ballot.
"
OH: Foreclosure "lifeboat" was a torpedo, lawsuit says
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A California law firm that promised to help Ohioans facing foreclosure actually scammed them out of their money, Ohio Attorney General Richard Cordray alleges in a new lawsuit.
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OH: Who's the mystery donor?
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Half of the team behind last year's ballot measure for casinos in Ohio has already denied that it bankrolled an effort to thwart competition from slots-hungry racetracks.
"
OH: OSU Medical Center may get separate audit
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Ohio State University Medical Center has grown so much in the past decade that it now makes up almost half of the university's budget.
"
OH: Federal historic-renovation program might lose all funding
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The federal program that helped pay for restoration of Ellis Island, plus dozens of Ohio historic-renovation projects in the past 10 years, would be eliminated under President Barack Obama's $3.83 trillion federal budget.
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OH: $70 tickets (and higher tuition?)
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Sports fans might not be the only people paying Ohio State University more cash next school year -- students also likely will see a tuition hike after a three-year freeze.
"
OH: 3 payday licenses to be revoked
From: feeds.stateline.org
"As the Ohio Department of Commerce cracks down on payday lenders who are forcing borrowers to pay check-cashing fees, a bill that would limit interest rates on payday loans is being reworked in an effort to pick up more legislative support.
"
OH: Ohio exceptions to Clean Air Act ruled illegal
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A judge has ruled that Ohio is violating the federal Clean Air Act by letting small businesses ignore air-pollution limits.
"
OH: High-tech jobs plan placed on ballot
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Ohioans will be voting on two statewide issues on May 4: whether to move the location of a planned Columbus casino and whether to borrow $700 million to fund a program designed to develop high-tech jobs.
"
OH: Jobless-aid meltdown feared as benefits for many to end
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Thousands of unemployed Ohioans will begin exhausting jobless benefits at the end of February without another extension of federal aid.
"
OH: Strickland presses Obama, Biden for federal dollars
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WASHINGTON -- When Gov. Ted Strickland met yesterday with the president, vice president and other senior Obama administration officials, he had a pretty straightforward message. Show me the money.
"
OK: Oklahoma House committee OKs horse dental bill
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Equine dentists, or teeth floaters, would not face criminal charges for practicing their skills under a bill that won passage in a House committee on Wednesday
"
OK: Spaceport funding bill voted down in Oklahoma House
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Frustrated over the legislative budget process and not having a direct say in money discussions, House Democrats and Republicans rallied together Wednesday to vote down a bill that would fund the Space Industry Development Authority.
"
OK: Oklahoma House panel approves home brewing bill
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Oklahomans would be able to legally brew beer for their own use if a measure that passed a House committee Wednesday becomes law.
"
OK: As Oklahoma's power woes ease, fog causes accidents
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Utility companies reported Wednesday that power has been returned to about 24,000 customers in southwest Oklahoma just as freezing fog earlier in the day caused large chain-reaction accidents on highways in the Oklahoma City and Tulsa areas.
"
OR: Ore. legislators may punt on 'kicker' tax reform
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Oregon voters may face a vote on the state's popular and unique "kicker" tax rebates before they get another kicker check.
"
OR: Bill Bradbury's idea to shift Oregon's assets to local banks goes viral
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Bill Bradbury, a Democratic candidate for governor of Oregon, who is banking on a campaign pledge to move the state's money out of national banks and into local institutions, is the subject of an interview this morning with the Huffington Post blog.
"
OR: State lawmakers consider ban on pre-employment credit checks
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Many Oregon employers would be prohibited from using a job applicant's credit history as part of the pre-employment screening process if a bill being considered by the Legislature becomes law.
"
OR: Kulongoski, Oregon lawmakers seek to scale back energy tax credits
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Big wind energy projects no longer need state incentives, Gov. Ted Kulongoski said today, as lawmakers explored a plan to rein in the soaring costs of Oregon's tax breaks for green energy.
"
OR: Hong Kong corporation buys Oregon pulp mill
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A Chinese company hoping to expand into the North American forest products business has purchased Cascade Pacific Pulp, LLC, a pulp mill at Halsey in the lower Willamette Valley.
"
OR: House to vote today on bill to extend unemployment benefits
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Lawmakers are moving quickly to advance an extension of unemployment benefits and increased access by small businesses to loans from a couple of state funds — a couple of the top goals by legislative leaders.
"
OR: Drop in economy brings rise in enrollment
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Enrollment at Chemeketa Community College jumped 16 percent in the winter quarter, with the school adding the equivalent of more than 500 full-time students.
"
PA: Lawyers clash over media comments in Veon trial
From: feeds.stateline.org
"In another dust-up between state prosecutors and defense lawyers for ex-Democratic Whip Mike Veon, prosecutors today complained privately to a judge about defense attorney Dan Raynak's comments to news media about documents that were not admitted at trial.
"
PA: Casino revenue up 40 percent since Jan. '09
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state's gross revenue from slots jumped by nearly 40 percent last month compared to January 2009 as a result of two new casinos opening, state Gaming Control Board officials said Wednesday.
"
PA: Colleges want to reopen talks
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Leaders of Pennsylvania's 14 state-owned universities emerged from a closed teleconference Wednesday and announced their intention to enter negotiations with all seven of their unions for an unspecified reason.
"
PA: Bonusgate defense gets aggressive
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Defense attorneys this morning will get their first chance to chip away at potentially damning testimony by former legislative aide Michael Manzo, a star witness in a government corruption trial that pits once-loyal cronies against each other.
"
PA: Ex-Pa. liquor-law enforcer faces new counts
From: feeds.stateline.org
"More federal charges have been filed against a former Pennsylvania liquor enforcement officer accused of running a shakedown scheme against bar owners.
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PA: Pa. Senate considers its own ethical limits
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A state Senate committee heard testimony yesterday on a proposal to set forth the chamber's first rules of ethical conduct, aimed at ensuring that no employee does campaign work on taxpayer time.
"
RI: R.I. reaps back taxes applying new system
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Rhode Island Department of Revenue has collected nearly $6 million in back taxes by using a sophisticated computer tool known as a data warehouse, Director Gary S. Sasse said Wednesday.
"
SC: Drake to announce jobs plan
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Democratic gubernatorial candidate Dwight Drake will hold a news conference today to ask lawmakers to adopt a plan he says will "spur hiring and bring down unemployment in South Carolina."
"
SC: Lawmaker -- SC unemployment agency didn't pay taxes
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state's unemployment agency didn't pay the government the income tax it withheld from jobless benefits for months last year and faced nearly $1 million in penalties, according to a report a South Carolina lawmaker unveiled Wednesday as he called for an overhaul of the agency.
"
SC: Greenville toll road can't refinance
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The S.C. House has rejected a proposal to allow the financially-troubled Southern Connector toll road in Greenville County to refinance its debt
"
SC: Senate revisits tax issue
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The hot-button issue of property tax was pushed again Wednesday as the South Carolina Senate began looking for new ways to address some of the complaints about the Legislature's previous changes to the tax system.
"
SD: Stem cell research backer may revive ballot effort
From: feeds.stateline.org
"After losing a battle in the South Dakota Legislature, a supporter of embryonic stem cell research said Wednesday he may revive an effort to get a statewide public vote on a measure that would ease the state's restrictions on the research.
"
SD: Labor department proposes higher unemployment taxes
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The South Dakota Department of Labor is looking to avoid future deficits in its unemployment fund by charging businesses higher unemployment insurance taxes.
"
SD: Senate panel votes to halt 'traffic pumping' practice
From: feeds.stateline.org
"One of the most complicated issues facing the already complex telecommunications industry came before a state legislative committee Wednesday.
"
SD: Hunters -- Poaching bill loses teeth
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Efforts to bolster penalties for poaching trophy wildlife in the state have stumbled, conservationists said, with an amendment that changes the language of the bill - and sends the money from those fines to schools.
"
SD: House dumps property tax hike option
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The House of Representatives defeated a bill Wednesday that would have allowed local governments to raise property taxes with voter consent.
"
SD: State job numbers depend on who's counting
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A political debate over the number of state employees spilled into the House of Representatives Wednesday with a party-line vote to revise the definition of a full-time equivalent position.
"
TN: Hospitals warn TennCare cuts to be 'devastating'
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state's hospitals could lose a half billion dollars under the cumulative effect of Gov. Phil Bredesen's proposed TennCare cuts, the president of the Tennessee Hospital Association said today.
"
TN: Franklin plant must reduce air pollutants; odor may still be issue
From: feeds.stateline.org
"FRANKLIN, Tenn. -- State and federal regulators will give a Franklin manufacturer a new, more stringent permit for emissions of air pollutants.
"
TN: Bill would let Mayor Karl Dean appoint housing agency director
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A bill introduced in the General Assembly would allow Mayor Karl Dean to appoint the executive director of the Metro agency that drew heat last year for its planning work on Nashville's convention center project.
"
TN: TennCare cuts threaten Nashville General hospital
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Looming cuts to a health insurance program for the state's poorest patients could deal a devastating blow to Nashville General Hospital at Meharry.
"
TN: Tea Party convention-goers ready to get down to work
From: feeds.stateline.org
"For the past few weeks, all the hype and headlines have been about who's not coming to the National Tea Party Convention.
"
TX: State lawmaker pleads guilty in corruption case
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State Rep. Terri Hodge pleaded guilty Wednesday to fraud and making false statements on an income tax return in connection with a bribery scheme involving Dallas city officials and developers.
"
US: Public health tab to hit milestone
From: feeds.stateline.org
"For the first time, government programs next year will account for more than half of all U.S. health-care spending, federal actuaries predict, as the weak economy sends more people into Medicaid and slows growth of private insurance.
"
UT: EPA thwarts Utah on air quality rules
From: feeds.stateline.org
"It's like handing in the homework, getting the grade five years later, and the assignment has since changed.
"
UT: Utah Legislature -- U. seeks funds to keep campus from crumbling
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Like most state agencies, the University of Utah is asking lawmakers for money.
"
UT: Lawmakers present stripped-down initial ed budget
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Lawmakers are looking at cutting per-pupil spending by as much as 3.5 percent next school year, according to a preliminary budget bill the House passed Wednesday.
"
UT: Shurtleff threatens to disband FLDS base Hildale
From: feeds.stateline.org
"As the state's control of a polygamous sect's property trust approaches its fifth year, Utah's attorney general says he may now seek to disband the city of Hildale.
"
UT: Herbert given $10K by coal company seeking permit
From: feeds.stateline.org
"On the same day Gov. Gary Herbert sat down with a coal company that complained regulators were taking too long to issue a strip-mining permit, his campaign aides were cashing a $10,000 check from the company.
"
UT: EnergySolutions flips on deal not to expand waste site
From: feeds.stateline.org
"EnergySolutions Inc. put the brakes on expansion plans for its Tooele radioactive waste site two years ago in an agreement with then-Gov. Jon Huntsman Jr., who hailed the deal as a "monumental win" for Utah residents.
"
VA: Two Henrico properties lose $145 million in value
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Two local properties -- one industrial and the other offices -- have dropped in value by almost $145 million in two years, costing Henrico County about $1.26 million in real estate taxes.
"
VA: Va. technology chief says deal can be resolved
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Three weeks into the job, Secretary of Technology Jim Duffey believes that Virginia's troubled $2.3 billion deal with Northrop Grumman is "very resolvable."
"
VA: Panel OKs bill on filmmaking grants
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A bill in Gov. Bob McDonnell's legislative agenda that would enable Virginia to give tax credits to movie production companies made it out of a Senate committee Wednesday, just not in a format favored by the administration.
"
VT: Entergy names Vermont Yankee point man
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The shakeup continued of the Vermont Yankee nuclear plant team that manages relations with state officials, after a top state regulator on Wednesday called the removal of one company official "tokenism."
"
VT: Report -- U.S. should spend more on biofuels
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WASHINGTON — A presidential task force that included Vermont Gov. Jim Douglas recommended spending more money to make biofuels such as ethanol, saying the nation is likely to fall short of mandates for more environmentally friendly energy.
"
WA: 'Streamlining' agencies may prove complicated
From: feeds.stateline.org
"It sounds simple: Save money by streamlining the state's natural resources agencies. Combine overlapping functions.
"
WA: Gregoire approves Kittitas Co. wind project
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Chris Gregoire has approved the Desert Claim wind project in Kittitas County, eight miles north of Ellensburg.
"
WA: UW pledges a brighter tomorrow
From: feeds.stateline.org
"TOPPENISH, Wash. -- University president talks to Toppenish students about financial aid program for low- and middle-income families.
"
WA: Citizens' tax curb on block
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Senate leaders want to make it easier for state lawmakers to raise taxes. Democrats will begin a move today to suspend the supermajority required to raise taxes that was approved by voters two years ago.
"
WA: Bill would further track cold medicines
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A South Sound lawmaker wants to further regulate and track sales of over-the-counter cold medicines – this time through an electronic database.
"
WA: Washington liquor may have more holiday mall shops
From: feeds.stateline.org
"SEATTLE -- The four state liquor stores that opened in shopping malls for the holiday season didn't make as much money as the Washington Liquor Control Board hoped.
"
WA: Wash. gov says nuclear energy must be considered
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WASHINGTON -- Gov. Chris Gregoire is applauding President Barack Obama's recent push for nuclear power - a stance that could cause political headaches in her state.
"
WA: Wash. lawmakers unveil 1st major tax-hike plans
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Washington state Legislature's ruling Democrats took their first serious step toward tax increases Wednesday, unveiling plans to close an array of tax exemptions and dump the voter-approved roadblocks that make it harder to raise revenue.
"
WA: Baby Einstein heading to grown-up court over UW study
From: feeds.stateline.org
"One creator of the Baby Einstein video series is preparing to take the University of Washington to court after two scathing critiques of the Disney-backed toddler video series.
"
WA: Would new 520 plan kill carpooling on the bridge?
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Part of a new 520 bridge should be dedicated exclusively to buses and light-rail trains from the get-go and the size of the span should be cut back, transit advocates say.
"
WA: State's entry idling at start line in Race to Top
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A few weeks ago, 40 states and the District of Columbia jumped into the high-profile education competition known as Race to the Top, submitting applications up to 1,000 pages long to make their case for a share of $4.35 billion in federal prize money.
"
WI: Hunger up dramatically in southwest Wisconsin
From: feeds.stateline.org
"JANESVILLE, Wisc. -- Food pantries, meal sites and shelters in southwestern Wisconsin are serving an unprecedented number of people, according to a study released Tuesday by Second Harvest Foodbank of Southern Wisconsin and Feeding America.
"
WI: State retirement account reform advances
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Two state legislative committees voted unanimously Wednesday in favor of bills to bring Wisconsin into compliance with federal tax rules covering Roth IRAs and other retirement accounts.
"
WI: Seeing double with stimulus job numbers
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A new report touts more than 10,300 jobs created or saved in Wisconsin by federal stimulus money in the last three months of 2009.
"
WV: Senate committee discusses optometry bill
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A state Senate panel hopes to vote next week on a hotly debated proposal to let optometrists expand the scope of their practice.
"
WV: State announces 2010 endangered properties list
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A former school, library, train depot, bank, diner, museum and active church are included in West Virginia's latest endangered properties list.
"
WV: Analysis -- Coal will be key issue in Rahall race
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Former state Supreme Court Justice Elliot "Spike" Maynard's effort to oust Rep. Nick Rahall, D-W.Va., is not only the first serious test of the 17-term congressman in a generation. It's also a pivotal race in a Democratic stronghold dominated by the state's top industry and could be a bellwether of the state's economic and political future.
"
WV: State mental health hospital to create 368 jobs
From: feeds.stateline.org
"CLARKSBURG, W.Va. -- A mental health facility opening next year at the United Hospital Center complex is expected to create 368 jobs over time, 200 of them immediately.
"
WV: Bill aims to repeal laws banning 'lewd' acts
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Sen. Douglas Facemire thinks it's time to give legal amnesty to some West Virginia outlaws: unmarried couples living together.
"
WV: State considers freeing some biz property from taxes
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The West Virginia Association of Counties has given its guarded blessing to a proposal meant to free business inventory and equipment from property taxes.
"
WV: Delegates want to raise beer tax to pay for substance-abuse programs
From: feeds.stateline.org
"An Upshur County delegate says his son's struggle with substance abuse is one reason why he will push to raise West Virginia's beer tax.
"
WY: Proposed Wyo bill would track government competion with business
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Legislation to create an online service for businesses to file complaints against government agencies that are, from their perspective, competing unfairly with them will be introduced in next week's budget session of the Wyoming legislature.
"
WY: Wyoming and the federal budget -- AML funds under fire
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WASHINGTON -- Wyoming Governor Dave Freudenthal has been in Washington for two days, meeting with the President and Senate President among others on energy policy and Abandoned Mine Land funds which normally flow to the state but appear to be on the federal budget chopping block again.
"
WY: New Goins Elementary depends on Legislature OK'ing budget
From: feeds.stateline.org
"If everything goes as expected, Goins Elementary students will attend a new school by August 2012.
"
WY: White Mountain wind project study out
From: feeds.stateline.org
"ROCK SPRINGS, Wy. -- Wind power development in southwest Wyoming got a step closer Wednesday with the release of a long-awaited environmental study of Sweetwater County's first major commercial wind energy project.
"
Visit the Stateline.org Economy & Business Page
From: feeds.stateline.org
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