US: Unemployment taxes slam businesses
From: money.cnn.com
"NEW YORK -- Employers are getting hit with a massive tax hike at a time when they can least afford it. Companies in at least 35 states will have to fork over more in unemployment insurance taxes this year, according to the National Association of State Workforce Agencies. "
US: States look to the bottle
From: online.wsj.com
"States suffering through tough times are reaching for a tonic. Lawmakers in several states with tight control of liquor sales are considering legislation that would shift the job to private industry, saving money and raising revenue."
Governors talk energy with Obama
From: www.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."
AK: Democrats dispute oil tax harming investment
From: juneauempire.com
"The gloves are coming off in a looming legislative fight over changes to Alaska's oil and gas production taxes. "
AK: Parnell says state will see $2.2 billion budget surplus
From: juneauempire.com
"Gov. Sean Parnell had a pleasant surprise for legislators in Juneau Feb. 2: A $2.2 billion state budget surplus. "
AK: Juneau may vie for Arctic Games
From: juneauempire.com
"The 2014 Arctic Winter Games aren't yet officially being held in Alaska, but that isn't stopping more than one Alaska city from organizing a bid. "
AL: Gov. Riley announces assistance for out-of-work casino employees
From: blog.al.com
"Workers who have lost their jobs at electronic bingo casinos across the state should know that help is on the way -- from the man who helped put them out of work -- Gov. Bob Riley. "
AL: Alabama governor hopefuls talk health, gambling at forum
From: www.montgomeryadvertiser.com
"During a Monday night forum, Democratic gubernatorial candidates Artur Davis and Ron Sparks clashed over gambling, health care and contributions that they received."
AL: Experts say Christian Coalition poll flawed
From: blog.al.com
"A poll conducted by the Christian Coalition on electronic bingo may have been flawed because of the way the questions were worded and the order in which they were asked, polling experts say."
AL: Greene County officials vow to block raid at bingo hall
From: www.montgomeryadvertiser.com
"A showdown is developing between the governor and Greene County officials over one of the largest electronic bingo casinos still operating in Alabama."
AR: Little Rock-area state offices closed Tuesday
From: ap.thecabin.net
"Gov. Mike Beebe's office says state offices in the Little Rock area will be closed Tuesday. Beebe's office says the decision was made because a hard freeze of slush-covered roads was expected Monday night and temperatures were forecast to remain below freezing until Tuesday afternoon."
AZ: Valley bankruptcies dropped in January
From: www.azcentral.com
"Are recession-ravaged residents finally gaining the upper hand on their finances? Metro Phoenix bankruptcy filings in January fell to their lowest level in nearly a year, coinciding with similar improvements at the national level."
AZ: Scottsdale wants law changed to spur development
From: www.azcentral.com
"Scottsdale will seek a change in state law that would allow property owners to tax themselves as part of a development district, a move designed to revitalize the McDowell Road corridor or parts of the Scottsdale Airpark."
AZ: New Lottery a sure bet with legislative OK
From: www.azcentral.com
"You can put money on it: Arizona is likely to have a state Lottery for the next 25 years. The state House of Representatives on Monday voted to create a new Lottery that would begin in mid-2012, when the current game expires. "
AZ: Criticism of Cubs bill raises ire of Mesa Mayor Scott Smith
From: www.azcentral.com
"Mesa Mayor Scott Smith lashed out at parochialism among Cactus League baseball teams Monday, saying their opposition to a ticket surcharge for a new Chicago Cubs training facility could cost them all if the team bolts to Florida."
CA: Foreign energy firms getting windfall of U.S. stimulus funds
From: www.signonsandiego.com
"Of the more than $2 billion the federal government has given out to boost the economy and create green-energy jobs, more than three-quarters has gone to foreign-owned companies that dominate the global wind-power industry. This latest finding by the Investigative Reporting Workshop, a nonprofit at American University in Washington, D.C., is illustrated clearly in San Diego County, where about a dozen commercial wind developers have offices."
CA: Details revealed on financing for governor's meal with legislators
From: www.sacbee.com
"Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger has released a partial list of guests to his closed-door lunch with legislators last month, and revealed who picked up the tab for their steak-or-salmon feeding."
CA: Two L.A. firms to pay settlement in probe of New York 'pay-to-play' scandal
From: www.latimes.com
"Two Los Angeles companies embroiled in a New York state pension fund corruption scandal agreed Monday to pay a total of $19 million to settle a state investigation into the "pay-to-play" scheme."
CA: Obama official 'very disturbed' by Anthem Blue Cross rate hikes
From: www.latimes.com
"In a rare step, the Obama administration called on California's largest for-profit insurer to justify its rate hikes, saying the increases were alarming at a time when subscribers face skyrocketing healthcare costs."
CA: Despite budget crisis, state spent $75 million on vehicles, office furniture
From: www.latimes.com
"Even as the state grappled with a budget crisis last year, bureaucrats spent nearly $45 million on new vehicles, almost $30 million on new furniture and more than $2 million on off-site meetings and conferences, a legislative panel has found."
CA: Jerry Brown calls pension funds' Iran investments illegal
From: latimesblogs.latimes.com
"State Atty. Gen. Jerry Brown sent letters to the heads of California's two largest public pension funds Monday, accusing them of violating state law by continuing to invest in companies that do business with Iran. "
CO: Colorado to get $30 million in federal money to clear beetle-killed forests
From: www.denverpost.com
"Colorado will get a $30 million chunk of federal money to make 3 million acres of beetle-killed forest safer.
"
CO: Ritter moves forward with deal that would split Pinnacol from state control
From: www.denverpost.com
"Gov. Bill Ritter's office is moving forward with a deal that would cut Pinnacol Assurance free from almost all state control in exchange for a payment that could mean hundreds of millions of dollars to help balance the budget.
"
CO: Elimination of Colorado tax breaks gets initial approval in state Senate
From: www.denverpost.com
"The Colorado Senate gave initial approval to a package of bills removing tax breaks on candy, soda, software, junk mail and other items Monday night.
"
CT: Three investigations launched into power plant explosion
From: www.ctpost.com
"A day after a deadly explosion rocked a power plant in Middletown, a state panel and federal and criminal investigators began searching for the cause of the blast and looking at a list of safety issues that could have contributed to the tragedy."
CT: Will energy plant explosion mean higher electric rates?
From: www.courant.com
"The idea behind the Kleen Energy plant was straightforward even though getting the project started was complex.
Once the plant and better high-voltage transmission lines to power-hungry Fairfield County were open, the combination would drive old, dirty, expensive-to-run power plants out of business."
CT: Expert estimates Kleen Energy plant is set back at least a year
From: www.courant.com
"As investigators search for a cause of Sunday's deadly power plant explosion in Middletown, some engineering experts say it is likely to be several months before it is even known how much of the Kleen Energy building can be salvaged."
CT: Middletown power plant explosion -- Focus on worker's torch
From: www.courant.com
"MIDDLETOWN, Conn. -- Investigators are focusing on a welder's torch as the possible cause of Sunday's deadly blast at the Kleen Energy Systems power plant, sources said."
FL: Unemployment to peak this summer, Florida top economist says
From: www.sun-sentinel.com
"Florida's unemployment is expected to reach an historic peak, 12.3 percent, by this summer, the state's chief economist said on Monday. The forecast is nearly a half percentage point above the record of 11.9 percent set in May 1975.
"
FL: Claims of misconduct at FPL prompt investigation
From: www.miamiherald.com
"State utility regulators and Florida Power & Light's parent company said Monday they would investigate anonymous allegations that FPL managers broke the law and committed fraud by forcing employees to provide inaccurate and misleading information to regulators and shareholders.
"
FL: Broward property values fall
From: www.miamiherald.com
"Broward property values plummeted more dramatically than ever last year, according to a preliminary estimate, a decline sure to force local governments to slash spending or raise taxes. Countywide values dropped about 16 percent, according to figures released Monday by Property Appraiser Lori Parrish.
"
GA: Georgia legislators debate regulating mortgages
From: www.timesfreepress.com
"Legislators are discussing changes to the Georgia Fair Lending Act that would make mortgage brokers more liable for loans that borrowers cannot repay."
HI: Hawaii will delay sending out tax refunds to balance budget
From: www.honoluluadvertiser.com
"Some Hawai'i residents may not see their state income tax refund checks until the end of August even though they file their taxes on time."
HI: Hawaii DHS restructuring may cut 200 jobs, close 50 offices
From: www.honoluluadvertiser.com
"More than 200 state workers who process applications for government assistance programs could lose their jobs, their union said, and at least 50 eligibility offices statewide could close under a cost-cutting proposal that advocates are worried will make it harder for the poor to access key social services."
HI: $1 million plan aims at pedestrian safety
From: www.starbulletin.com
"The state is working on a $1 million pedestrian master plan to reduce traffic casualties."
HI: Bill cleared to study state-backed ferry
From: www.starbulletin.com
"Debate about a high-speed ferry service, much like the now-defunct Hawaii Superferry, isn't over."
HI: Furlough bill vote postponed
From: www.honoluluadvertiser.com
"The state Senate's education committee again postponed a vote on a bill that would eliminate the remaining public school teacher furlough days through use of the state hurricane relief fund and an increase in the general excise tax by 1 percentage point."
IA: "Prevailing Wage-Lite" passes House Committee
From: blogs.desmoinesregister.com
"A new version of a controversial union labor proposal that failed last year was approved today by the House Labor Committee, paving the way for the idea to advance to full House for further consideration."
IA: Ombudsman concludes lottery safer than in past
From: www.desmoinesregister.com
"State Ombudsman William Angrick has ended a simmering feud with a top Iowa Lottery official, although he vowed Monday to keep watching whether the lottery is doing enough to protect customers from retailer fraud."
IA: Bill would require sick leave for most employees in Iowa
From: www.desmoinesregister.com
"All Iowa employees who work at least 20 hours a week would get paid when they are home sick, under a bill before the Legislature."
ID: Want to graduate early? Idaho lawmakers want to pay you
From: www.magicvalley.com
"For Idaho students who think school lasts forever, two lawmakers want to pay them to speed up their education."
ID: Idaho, others prepare for California egg exodus
From: www.idahostatesman.com
"Idaho is among several states watching to see if a California animal cruelty law drives flocks of big egg farms there to fly the coop."
ID: Investment manager opposes Idaho schools chief Tom Luna's plan
From: www.idahostatesman.com
"Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Luna wants to tap a reserve fund for $52.8 million to offset looming cuts of at least $135 million for K-12 education."
ID: Republican veteran Pete Cenarrusa reflects on how tough decisions get made
From: www.idahostatesman.com
"No less an authority than the longest-serving elected official in Idaho history says 2011 could bring tax reform rivaling the 1965 session that enacted a 3 percent sales tax."
ID: ID Senate backs bill to kill tax check-off
From: www.magicvalley.com
"A three-decade-old provision that's allowed Idaho residents to chip in a buck of their taxes to their favorite political party is a step closer to falling victim to a tough economy."
ID: Day care judgment marred by bankruptcy
From: www.magicvalley.com
"The family that filed a wrongful death lawsuit against Happy Feet Day Care in Twin Falls may never see their $1.26 million judgment, since Happy Feet's owners lacked insurance and have filed for bankruptcy."
IL: Illinois AG files suits on reverse mortgages
From: www.chicagobreakingbusiness.com
"The state of Illinois filed lawsuits Monday against two firms that offer reverse mortgages to senior citizens, alleging that they used unfair and deceptive marketing practices.
"
IL: Caterpillar buys into the FutureGen Alliance
From: www.herald-review.com
"MATTOON, Ill. -- Caterpillar Inc., the world's largest maker of mining and construction equipment, plans to join a coalition of companies planning to build an experimental clean-coal power plant known as FutureGen near Mattoon."
IL: New state law inadvertently bars farmers from using ATVs
From: thesouthern.com
"A new state law that attempted to clear up some of the confusion concerning low-speed, nonhighway vehicles has unintentionally barred farmers from using all-terrain vehicles on local roads."
IL: Feds may close locks to stop carp
From: www.chicagotribune.com
"At a White House meeting Monday on the Asian carp threat to the Great Lakes, federal officials said they may seek to close navigational locks on Chicago-area waterways for up to three or four days a week, a move that would restrict cargo shipping and recreational boating."
IN: State agency sets hearings on closure of Cline bridge
From: www.post-trib.com
"INDOT will host two public meetings today regarding the Cline Avenue bridge closure. State officials from the Indiana Department of Transportation will make a brief presentation touching on Cline Avenue's history and near-term solutions for the bridge's closure."
IN: Production resumes at Indiana Toyota plant
From: www.ibj.com
"Production work has resumed as planned at Toyota's southwestern Indiana plant after a week-long shutdown for the company to repair defective gas pedals."
KS: Kansas City, Kan., casino developers expected to get final approval this week
From: www2.ljworld.com
"A partnership hoping to build a casino in Kansas City, Kan., is expected to clear its final regulatory hurdle this week.
"
KS: Kansas House panel considers halting tax exemptions
From: www.kansas.com
"A Kansas House committee is considering whether legislators should be allowed to grant new exemptions on state sales and property taxes.
"
KS: Audit looks at school district consolidation
From: www2.ljworld.com
"The state could save money by merging school districts, but those consolidations could also produce problems, an audit released Monday said."
KS: Kansas secretary of state resigns
From: www.kansascity.com
"Kansas Secretary of State Ron Thornburgh will leave office a year early to take a private-sector job, giving Democrats a possible leg up ahead of November's election.
"
KS: School funding loophole in peril
From: www.kansascity.com
"The Shawnee Mission School District's clever interpretation of state law now has other school districts urging legislators to close a loophole in school finance law.
"
KY: Payday lending bill hits snag in House
From: www.kentucky.com
"A measure that would cap interest rates on all short-term loans at 36 percent might never get a hearing in the Democratic-controlled House, despite the backing of Democratic Gov. Steve Beshear."
KY: Insight to launch Kentucky-themed channel
From: www.kentucky.com
"Insight Communications, cable provider for Lexington and other parts of Kentucky, plans to launch a cable television channel this spring that focuses on the Bluegrass State."
KY: Unemployment bill clears House -- Businesses might pay higher taxes
From: www.courier-journal.com
"The House passed a measure Monday that would increase taxes on businesses and cut benefits for jobless workers as a way to shore up the state's unemployment insurance trust fund."
LA: Tourism official wants governor to take control
From: www.nola.com
"Shifting the state's tourism office to the Department of Economic Development would give the governor more say in how the state's tourism dollars are spent and underscore the importance of the industry, one of the state's leading tourism officials said Monday.
"
MA: Bill looks to streamline economic development
From: www.capecodonline.com
"Senate President Therese Murray, D-Plymouth, and Sen. Karen Spilka, D-Framingham, filed a bill yesterday to streamline economic development statewide. The bill includes a provision that would consolidate oversight of regional economic development organizations within a single office.
"
MA: Pols wary of governor's Pike plan
From: www.bostonherald.com
"Beacon Hill power players warned Gov. Deval Patrick to slow down yesterday on a plan he's considering that would eliminate toll takers and install a high-speed electronic toll system on the Massachusetts Turnpike
"
MA: He has state, US funds waiting
From: www.boston.com
"As the top economic official in Massachusetts government, Gregory Bialecki is responsible for giving away hundreds of millions of dollars to revive the state's troubled economy. There's just one problem: He can't find enough good candidates for the money.
"
MD: Study boosts notion of offshore wind production
From: www.baltimoresun.com
"Offshore wind energy can furnish Marylanders with as much as two-thirds of the electricity they currently use, and if aggressively developed, could turn the state into a net exporter of power, a new report by the Abell Foundation says."
MD: State retains control of sailing hall
From: www.hometownannapolis.com
"The state attorney general has determined that Maryland cannot, under the state constitution, surrender control over the proposed National Sailing Hall of Fame to the city.
"
ME: Madawaska union accepts 8.5% pay cut
From: www.bangordailynews.com
"MADAWASKA, Maine — The United Steelworkers union will take an immediate 8 percent wage cut in accepting a new three-year contract Monday that Fraser Papers Inc. management calls critical to keeping the town paper mill going.
"
ME: FairPoint plan would cut debt sharply
From: www.bangordailynews.com
"PORTLAND, Maine — The telecommunications company FairPoint Communications Inc.'s debt would be cut by nearly two-thirds under its bankruptcy reorganization plan filed Monday, but the company said the reorganization won't prevent it from expanding broadband Internet in Maine, New Hampshire and Vermont.
"
MI: State, union reach tentative deal
From: www.lansingstatejournal.com
"The Office of the State Employer and a union representing 2,000 state employees have reached a tentative agreement on concessions."
MI: General Dynamics to close Norton Shores facility
From: www.mlive.com
"NORTON SHORES, Mich. -- General Dynamics Land Systems, a national defense contractor based in the Detroit area, announced Monday it will close its Muskegon Technical Center on June 14, company officials said."
MI: U.S. Rep. Peter Hoekstra seeking ideas for keeping Asian carp at bay
From: www.mlive.com
"MUSKEGON, Mich. -- If you've got an idea on how to keep Asian carp out of Lake Michigan, U.S. Rep. Pete Hoekstra wants to hear it."
MI: Rebate funding expected to go fast as cash for appliance clunkers set to begin in Michigan
From: www.mlive.com
"GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. -- Starting Wednesday, Michigan shoppers are in line for $25 to $100 in rebates when they replace their old appliances with energy-efficient models -- but only for a limited time."
MI: Auto suppliers hiring up to 525
From: www.lansingstatejournal.com
"DELTA TWP., Mich. -- Local auto suppliers will hire hundreds of people in mid-Michigan in the coming weeks as they prepare to support a third shift at a General Motors Co. assembly plant in Delta Township."
MN: Minn. Senate to vote on $1B public works bill
From: www.startribune.com
"A $1 billion construction projects bill gets its first big vote on Tuesday in the Democrat-controlled Senate.
"
MN: Redesign' sought to shore up Minnesota's finances
From: www.twincities.com
"Desperate times call for desperate measures. Facing a $1.2 billion state deficit and future deficits of up to $5.4 billion, lawmakers in the Minnesota House unveiled proposals they hope lead to a government "redesign." It is being pitched as a bipartisan effort that focuses on results rather than whether to adjust the levers of government by raising taxes or cutting spending.
"
MN: DFLers hope tax breaks put jobless back to work
From: www.twincities.com
"In an attempt to spark building construction, Minnesota Senate President Jim Metzen and other Democratic senators Monday introduced a "jobs bill" that would provide tax credits for investments in small businesses, start-up technology companies and the rehabilitation of historic buildings.
"
MO: McCaskill -- Missouri politicians posturing on stimulus
From: www.kansascity.com
"WASHINGTON -- Sen. Claire McCaskill accused Missouri officials of political dishonesty Monday for bashing big spending by Washington while using federal stimulus money to help balance the state budget.
"
MO: Mo. commits transportation stimulus funds
From: hosted.ap.org
"The Missouri Department of Transportation has designated all of its federal stimulus funds a month before the deadline."
MO: Mo. housing chief plans to work for not-for-profit
From: hosted.ap.org
"The outgoing executive director of the Missouri Housing Development Commission says he's hoping to work for a not-for-profit group."
MS: House approves ban on nitrous oxide
From: www.commercialappeal.com
"House members overwhelmingly approved legislation Monday that bars nitrous oxide, which one legislator called "like a vehicle on steroids," in memory of a state trooper killed last May while chasing a Pontiac Trans Am equipped with the gas."
MT: No bid on state's Otter Creek coal — but an expression of interest
From: www.billingsgazette.com
"The only "bid" submitted Monday to lease 570 million tons of state-owned coal in southeastern Montana's Otter Creek Valley turned out to be no bid."
MT: Red ink predicted for state budget
From: www.billingsgazette.com
"The state's general-fund budget will be in the red by mid-2011, a new revenue forecast predicted Monday."
MT: Jefferson County touts bid for home
From: www.billingsgazette.com
"A new home for veterans is planned for southwest Montana, and Jefferson County officials think Boulder is the best place for it."
ND: Flooding on the Knife River likely, again
From: www.bismarcktribune.com
"It's February and in Mercer County there are already predictions for the possibility of moderate flooding or worse on the Knife River this spring."
ND: FEMA teams in N.D. to survey storm damage
From: www.grandforksherald.com
"Officials with the Federal Emergency Management Agency will be in North Dakota this week evaluating damage from the ice storm that hit the state late last month."
NE: Livestock ID plan caught up in identity crisis
From: www.journalstar.com
"Nebraska's director of agriculture is watching closely as plans for a national identification system for cattle, hogs and other livestock are pulled off the federal agenda."
NE: Lawmakers reject young farmer investment bill
From: www.journalstar.com
"Senators rejected a program that would put some state funds into loans for young Nebraska farmers rather than in more traditional investments."
NH: Evergreen 'pay plan' irks towns
From: www.theunionleader.com
"A two-year-old law that guarantees municipal and school workers raises even when their contracts expire is just now starting to make itself felt at town and school district meetings.
"
NJ: NAACP -- N.J. lawmakers have housing bill conflict of interest
From: www.northjersey.com
"As New Jersey lawmakers continued to shape a new approach to affordable housing, the state NAACP charged that key senators drafting this policy change have conflicts of interest because their law firms represent towns affected by the rules."
NJ: N.J. cleaning up one snow, preparing for more
From: www.northjersey.com
"CHERRY HILL, N.J. — Snowed-in southern New Jersey on Monday was still dealing with the aftermath of one major snowstorm as it prepared for another big one expected to arrive late Tuesday."
NJ: N.J. probes Passaic County deer kill
From: www.northjersey.com
"The state is investigating whether all of the deer killed during the culling on Garret Mountain have been properly accounted for — and why so many of the harvested animals were sent to an uncertified butcher."
NJ: N.J. lawmakers tout jobs bill
From: www.northjersey.com
"Saying small businesses desperately need credit but banks refuse to lend, two New Jersey congressmen touted a bill Monday that would give the job to the Small Business Administration (SBA)."
NJ: N.J. public worker benefits, pension would be revamped under proposed legislation
From: www.nj.com
"Over the strong objections of labor unions, lawmakers today introduced reforms they said could drastically remake public worker pensions and benefits in New Jersey and save a pension fund in crisis."
NJ: N.J. gay rights group suspends political donations after gay marriage defeat
From: www.nj.com
"New Jersey's largest gay rights group is suspending donations to political parties after feeling spurned by Democratic lawmakers who did not pass a gay marriage bill."
NJ: N.J. Senate committee approves sports betting constitutional amendment vote
From: www.nj.com
"If a federal ban on sports betting in New Jersey is overturned, the state should be ready to get in on the action, a state senator said today."
NM: State law stalls decision in Block case
From: www.santafenewmexican.com
"Lawyers in the criminal case against state Public Regulation Commission member Jerome Block Jr. argued the finer points of an unusual state law during a hearing Monday, including the meanings of "shall" and "or." "
NM: Senate takes rare vote to override gov.'s veto
From: www.santafenewmexican.com
"Simmering disagreements between lawmakers and the administration of Gov. Bill Richardson boiled over Monday, as the Senate sought to force state agencies to provide the Legislature with confidential information about contracts and programs. "
NM: 'Freeze' doesn't stop state from hiring
From: www.santafenewmexican.com
"State government in the past seven months has hired 21 new employees despite an ongoing hiring freeze, personnel records show. "
NV: Full text of governor's "State of the State" address
From: www.nevadaappeal.com
"Hello, I'm Governor Jim Gibbons. "
NV: In throwback to 1960s, students plan walkout today to protest budget cuts
From: www.lasvegassun.com
"Taking a page from earlier generations of Southern Nevada campus activists, UNLV students plan a walkout today to oppose Gov. Jim Gibbons' proposed budget cuts."
NV: Governor sounds like the GOP candidate he is, observers say
From: www.lasvegassun.com
"The lesson of the night was that no matter who's talking, the message is motivated by politics."
NV: Gibbons -- Reform school system, close prison
From: www.nevadaappeal.com
"The veneer of cooperation between Gov. Jim Gibbons and legislative leadership suffered some damage Monday night as Gibbons blamed lawmakers for creating the budget crisis.
"
NV: Gibbons -- Reform school system, close prison
From: www.nevadaappeal.com
"The veneer of cooperation between Gov. Jim Gibbons and legislative leadership suffered some damage Monday night as Gibbons blamed lawmakers for creating the budget crisis.
"
NV: Boosted by rate hike, NV Energy reports profit
From: www.lvrj.com
"A mid-year rate increase helped local power utility NV Energy transform a quarterly loss into a profit, though it wasn't enough to boost the company's overall annual earnings."
NV: Nevada's budget woes -- Gibbons blames legislators
From: www.lvrj.com
"Gov. Jim Gibbons lashed out at state lawmakers on Monday, blaming them for the state's fiscal crisis even as he called them into a special session to consider government spending cuts."
NY: Departure gives boost to racino bid
From: www.timesunion.com
"The winning bidder in the competition to build a huge racino at Aqueduct Racetrack cut ties with a partner whose criminal record appeared to be a deterrent to consummating the deal.
"
NY: Summary of the New York state of the state address
From: www.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: State to fund 350 home fix-ups
From: news.cincinnati.com
"The state approved spending $510,000 to fix up homes for needy Hamilton County families, state Rep. Denise Driehaus said Monday."
OH: Biodiesel jobs are threatened as a tax credit for the industry expires
From: www.cleveland.com
"CLEVELAND -- Green jobs in the biodiesel industry are disappearing because Congress has failed to extend a 5-year-old tax credit, industry leaders say."
OH: More green-energy stimulus aid sought
From: www.dispatch.com
"Federal stimulus dollars are helping Ohio companies make components for wind, solar and other energy production, but some "clean energy" advocates say that more assistance is needed to continue creating green manufacturing jobs."
OR: Ore. agriculture sales fall almost 15 percent
From: gazettetimes.com
"Oregon's agricultural sales plunged almost 15 percent last year, pounded by a weak economy, low prices and oversupply, according to a report released Monday by Oregon State University."
OR: Recovery will be slow, state economist says
From: www.statesmanjournal.com
"Monday's economic forecast, the seventh in a row to show declining tax collections, will prompt lawmakers to find more than $100 million in spending cuts, reserve shifts or reduced tax breaks to balance the state budget."
PA: Pa. bill would expand overhaul of schools
From: www.philly.com
"Low-achieving schools could be turned into charter schools or handed over to outside management. "
PA: Jack Wagner's strong state committee showing a surprise to some
From: www.pittsburghlive.com
"Elections are won at the ballot box, not the bank teller's window, and Auditor General Jack Wagner's majority support from the state Democratic Committee over the weekend served as a reminder that the governor's race is just getting started, observers said Monday."
SC: SC ports to unveil concept for cruise terminal
From: www.thestate.com
"After months of meetings and planning, a South Carolina agency is unveiling a concept for a new cruise terminal to serve the state."
SD: S.D. considers direct election of state's ag secretary
From: www.siouxcityjournal.com
"SIOUX FALLS, S.D. -- A bill filed in the South Dakota Legislature would make the office of state agriculture secretary an elected position rather than one filled by a governor's appointment."
SD: Study -- Standard would aid wind industry
From: www.argusleader.com
"South Dakota's wind industry is beginning to shift from a gale to a gentle breeze, but a national Renewable Electricity Standard (RES) would allow for a burst of new investments, according to a study released last week."
SD: PUC chief criticizes cap-and-trade costs
From: www.argusleader.com
"A comprehensive energy policy that retasks America's thirst for carbon-emitting power is possible, Public Utilities Commissioner Dusty Johnson said, but two bills before Congress largely are political behemoths that would harm South Dakota consumers."
TN: Tennessee State Fair closure stirs council, citizens
From: www.tennessean.com
"Mayor Karl Dean's administration and the leadership of the Tennessee State Fair faced tough questions from Metro Council members and the public Monday over their decision to shut down the fair and redevelop the fairgrounds."
TN: Tennessee hospitals push for tax to offset cuts to TennCare
From: www.tennessean.com
"The Tennessee Hospital Association's members will push for a temporary tax on their revenues to reduce cuts to the TennCare program proposed last week by Gov. Phil Bredesen."
TN: Legislature says un-elected boards can't make menu rules
From: www.commercialappeal.com
"The state legislature has overridden Gov. Phil Bredesen's veto of a bill that would block local un-elected boards from imposing nutritional labeling requirements on restaurants."
TN: UT predicts 2 more years of unemployment above 10 percent
From: www.commercialappeal.com
"The University of Tennessee's annual report on the state's economy, released Monday, projects slow economic growth this year and bad news on the job front: unemployment above 10 percent through 2011."
TX: White, Shami spar on death penalty, gas tax in Texas Democratic governor debate
From: www.dallasnews.com
"FORT WORTH, Texas – The two main Democratic candidates for governor clashed on the death penalty, increasing the gasoline tax and halting Barnett Shale energy production Monday night in their only statewide televised debate."
TX: Bius charges conflict, Ogden fires back
From: www.statesman.com
"Texas Senate wannabe Ben Bius charged today that veteran Sen. Steve Ogden has been hiding "a glaring conflict of interest" for years: That Ogden's daughter, Kristen, is a lobbyist for a road-builders' trade group."
TX: A fact check of the Democratic governor debate
From: www.dallasnews.com
"THE CLAIM: Farouk Shami said that over the past few years, the state has executed a few people who were innocent. He then added, "We have killed lots of innocent people in the state of Texas.""
US: In Congress, it's decision time on long-term unemployment benefits
From: www.washingtonpost.com
"As the Senate this week considers a "jobs bill" to reduce unemployment, lawmakers will have to decide whether to continue an unprecedented change in how the country treats people who are out of work, which was quietly approved last year. "
UT: Lawmakers discuss early high school graduation
From: www.sltrib.com
"Sen. Chris Buttars isn't talking about dropping 12th grade any more. Now, he's talking about making 12th grade optional for those students who finish their required credits early -- and some lawmakers are listening to the idea with interest. "
UT: House OKs change to reap $20M in federal stimulus money
From: www.sltrib.com
"The House passed a bill Monday that would tweak the state's unemployment benefits, extending payments to 1,700 out-of-work residents. "
UT: Provo lawmaker wants to monkey with ban on primates
From: www.sltrib.com
"Want to buy a monkey? "
UT: State scholarships face another shortfall
From: www.sltrib.com
"Higher education officials cautioned lawmakers Monday that they will have to substantially shrink the state's two popular merit-based scholarships next year absent an increase in funding beyond what the Legislature currently envisions. "
UT: Utah Legislature -- Testing teachers — Educators could soon receive pay based on student test scores
From: www.deseretnews.com
"Whether teachers should earn their paychecks based on student test scores, popularity or their college degree and years of experience is drawing heated debate between lawmakers and educators."
UT: Utah Attorney General Mark Shurtleff accused of misusing PAC
From: www.deseretnews.com
"An ethics initiative sponsor says Utah Attorney General Mark Shurtleff has violated the state's election laws and is requesting that the lieutenant governor's office investigate his fundraising activities."
VT: Burlington claims Morgan Stanley mishandled pension fund
From: www.burlingtonfreepress.com
"The administration of Mayor Bob Kiss asked the City Council on Monday for authority to file a claim against Morgan Stanley with the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority for the company's alleged mishandling of the city's pension investments from 1991 to 2006.
"
VT: Rep. Welch says Vermont's economy is 'still really struggling'
From: www.burlingtonfreepress.com
"BERLIN, Vt. -- Rep. Peter Welch, D-Vt., on Monday concluded a series of roundtable discussions with business leaders in four parts of Vermont. The conversations, he said, have offered input to recalibrate his legislative focus.
"
WA: 747-8 soars smoothly on first outing
From: seattletimes.nwsource.com
"Boeing's chief pilot on the 747 disembarked from the newest and largest Boeing jet after its maiden flight Monday and immediately gave it the thumbs-up."
WI: Up to 100,000 Wisconsin residents face losing unemployment benefits
From: host.madison.com
"Unemployment benefits may be ending much earlier than previously announced for as many as 100,000 Wisconsin residents."
WI: Wis. gov disappointed locks won't close
From: host.madison.com
"Gov. Jim Doyle says he's disappointed federal officials won't close Chicago-area locks and gates to stop Asian carp from spreading into the Great Lakes."
WV: Ag Department eyes move to technology park
From: www.wvgazette.com
"The state Department of Agriculture is considering moving its headquarters from the Sissonville area to the South Charleston Technology Park."
WV: Manchin would sign beer tax hike -- if one comes
From: www.wvgazette.com
"The price of beer has a good chance of increasing this year if lawmakers can get a proposed tax hike to Gov. Joe Manchin's desk."
WV: Lottery chief predicts revenue will level off
From: www.wvgazette.com
"After three consecutive years of declining revenues, West Virginia Lottery Director John Musgrave said he believes state Lottery revenues will level off in future years -- despite a weak economy and increased competition from neighboring states."
WY: State of the State -- Wyo Governor urges caution in legislative spending
From: thewyonews.net
"In what could be his last State of the State address, Gov. Dave Freudenthal restated his desire that legislators not dip into the $700 million budget reserve account to go above his and the Joint Appropriations Committee's recommended $3 billion budget."
WY: 'Take your cue from the private sector'
From: www.trib.com
"Gov. Dave Freudenthal pushed for his wind energy package, called for more money for school capital construction and repeated his admonition to leave the state's reserve funds alone during his message to the Legislature on Monday."
WY: Restrictions slow state government hiring
From: www.trib.com
"The rate of state government hiring has slowed significantly since falling energy revenues prompted Wyoming Gov. Dave Freudenthal to impose restrictions last spring, state records show."
WY: Wyo. gov. urges fiscal restraint in state address
From: www.trib.com
"Gov. Dave Freudenthal says Wyoming legislators need to hold onto the state's financial reserves as they craft a new state budget."
WY: Wyo Senate and House leaders react to State of State
From: thewyonews.net
"Gov. Dave Freudenthal's self-proclaimed fiscally conservative approach toward Wyoming's 2011-2012 budget is right on target, according to House and Senate leaders of the Wyoming Legislature."
Quinn survives — for now
From: www.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
"
Weekly wrap: Fed report doubts energy states will recover first
From: www.stateline.org
"Revenues down in gas-producing states; Obama snubs Las Vegas—again; and economist Mark Zandi predicts start of economic expansion."
Visit the Stateline.org Economy & Business Page
From: www.stateline.org
"Revenues down in gas-producing states; Obama snubs Las Vegas—again; and economist Mark Zandi predicts start of economic expansion."
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