CA: Congress opens probe into Anthem Blue Cross rate increases
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Congress opened an investigation Tuesday into Anthem Blue Cross' impending rate increases in California as President Obama cited the premium hikes -- some as high as 39% -- in his bid to pass national healthcare legislation.
"
VA: Virginia passes bill to limit legal claims on one firm
From: feeds.stateline.org
"RICHMOND, Va. -- The Virginia House of Delegates passed a bill that would help protect a single Fortune 500 company from asbestos lawsuits -- a proposal that House Speaker William J. Howell has been quietly maneuvering to have his chamber support for weeks.
"
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: Legislator says gasoline price regulating bills need work
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A key House committee chairman says two bills that would regulate Alaska's wholesale gasoline prices are dead unless their sponsors make changes.
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AK: Legislators weigh cost of running new prison
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The megaprison being built in the Mat-Su so far is coming in on time and within budget, but some legislators still are pondering whether a private company could run it more cheaply than the state.
"
AK: Samuels campaigns in Juneau
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Ralph Samuels wants to be governor to boost the state's economy, including the oil and gas industries he championed in four terms in the Alaska Legislature, the cruise ship industry for which he now works, as well as the locally important mining and fishing industries.
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AL: Bingo bill on fast track to Senate action
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Alabama Senate leaders are planning quick action on a bill that would protect casinos targeted by the governor, allow more casinos to open and tax and regulate the industry.
"
AL: Gov. Riley, gambling proponents accuse each other of lying in TV ads
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Groups on both sides of the Alabama gambling divide criticized each other for airing allegedly false statements in television advertisements last week.
"
AL: Rep. Artur Davis, Mayor Tommy Battle speaking to Ares subcontractors
From: feeds.stateline.org
"HUNTSVILLE, Ala. -- Congressman and gubernatorial candidate Artur Davis, along with Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle, will hold a news conference at 1 p.m. today after meeting with NASA subcontractors about the proposed killing of the Ares rocket program.
"
AL: Senate passes TIF bill for Redstone Arsenal
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Legislation that would permit Huntsville to create a special tax district for a proposed $1 billion office park at Redstone Arsenal sailed though the Alabama Senate on Tuesday.
"
AL: Senate approves bill to require state contractors to name subcontractors
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Legislation that would require contractors for the state to make public all of their subcontractors was approved Tuesday by the Alabama Senate.
"
AR: State offices to reopen today in Little Rock
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State offices in the Little Rock area are reopening — although the openings could be delayed.
"
AR: Arkansas officials warn of ice forming overnight
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The most dangerous moments in Arkansas' wintry weather may come Wednesday morning, when motorists try to drive on roads with fresh ice from Tuesday's snow melt.
"
AR: Lottery losers
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Some Pine Bluff retailers believe that millions of dollars many of their customers would otherwise spend on purchases in their outlets have been diverted to the Arkansas Scholarship Lottery in recent months.
"
AR: State Supreme Court sets hearing on coal plant
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state Supreme Court has scheduled an April 15 hearing for oral arguments in Southwestern Electric Power Co.'s appeal of a ruling that took away its permit to build a coal-fired power plant in Southwest Arkansas.
"
AZ: State lawmakers penning postcards to Congress, others
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Undeterred by the budget crisis, state lawmakers are continuing to propose types of legislation that often amount to little more than postcards or press releases.
"
AZ: Sales-tax tally increased for Arizona in December
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Arizona's sales-tax collections jumped a healthy 7.6 percent from November to December as the state entered the holiday season.
"
AZ: Report -- Research funding has saved jobs
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A new report commissioned by Science Foundation Arizona says that high-paying technology jobs remained stable in 2008 even as other private-sector employment began to melt away at the start of the recession.
"
AZ: Feb. data could be key in Valley home market
From: feeds.stateline.org
"January's significant drop in pre-foreclosures is the indicator many metropolitan Phoenix housing-market watchers have been anxiously looking for during the past several months.
"
AZ: Ariz. highway could lose metric markings
From: feeds.stateline.org
"GREEN VALLEY, Ariz. -- Don Herk sees no problem with an interstate sign about 200 meters outside his Arizona Family Restaurant telling motorists that Continental Road is 2 kilometers south.
"
AZ: 2009 called 'the worst' for Valley hotels
From: feeds.stateline.org
"When the owner of the luxury Phoenician resort reported year-end financial results, no negatives were spared in summing up the state of the hotel industry last year.
"
CA: Lost slot-machine revenue at issue in tribe's lawsuit
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The San Pasqual Indian band finally got its slot machines. Now the tribe wants the money it believes it lost during the five years it fought for them in court.
"
CA: On eve of first state budget vote, California Democrats push jobs proposal
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A day before the first legislative vote on efforts to close California's $19.9 billion deficit, Senate Democrats on Tuesday mapped out a package of bills they claim will rev the state's economy by creating at least 140,000 jobs.
"
CA: California wants Target to pull Valentine bears
From: feeds.stateline.org
"OAKLAND, Calif. -- The California attorney general is asking Target Corp. to pull its Valentine's Day "Message Bears" from store shelves over concerns that they have illegal levels of lead.
"
CA: HMO members more satisfied in 2009
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Six of California's nine largest HMOs earned higher patient approval ratings in 2009 than they did the year before, say officials from the Office of the Patient Advocate, a state agency that issues an annual report card to help consumers evaluate health coverage.
"
CA: Former Gov. Wilson gets a new gig with U.S. HealthWorks
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Former Gov. Pete Wilson has joined the board of directors at U.S. HealthWorks, the nation's second-largest operator of private health care centers for on-the-job injuries.
"
CA: Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger urged to name new EDD boss
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Two assemblymen have urged Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger to immediately name a new Employment Development Department boss so the new leader can start fixing severe problems besetting the state's unemployment insurance program.
"
CA: Legalizing online poker debated in California Senate hearing
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The question bitterly divides California casino tribes, fires up video poker players and alarms anti-gambling activists: Should California legalize an online vice – Internet poker – to rescue beleaguered state coffers?
"
CA: California Assembly panel approves Maldonado's nomination -- after grilling
From: feeds.stateline.org
"An Assembly committee voted Tuesday to send state Sen. Abel Maldonado's nomination to fill in as lieutenant governor to the full Assembly – but only after the Republican was grilled about his ambition, immigration, taxes, higher education, gay rights and other subjects.
"
CA: Ensuring insurance inequity
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Why exactly, you may wonder, would a housekeeper or longshoreman have trouble getting house insurance?
"
CO: Ritter seeks clarification on campaign-finance rules
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Bill Ritter has asked the Colorado Supreme Court to weigh in on a campaign-finance dispute over contribution limits.
"
CO: Lawmakers predict court fights on ending tax breaks
From: feeds.stateline.org
"As the legislative battle over eliminating tax breaks nears its end, some lawmakers wonder if another front will emerge months down the line in court.
"
CO: House panel OKs rafting along private land
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Lawmakers took their first shot late Monday at settling the long- standing dispute over rafts passing private property when they passed out of committee a bill to give commercial outfitters the right to float on rivers without the fear of being sued by landowners for trespassing.
"
CO: Failure of stiffer seat-belt law may cost Colorado $12 million in federal funds
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A plan to let police pull over unbuckled drivers and charge them higher fees hit a dead end in committee Tuesday after lawmakers gutted the bill, likely forfeiting $12 million in federal transportation dollars in the process.
"
CO: Bill spotlights obscure tax
From: feeds.stateline.org
"When Coloradans make purchases over the Internet from out-of-state companies such as Amazon.com and Overstock.com, they're supposed to voluntarily submit sales taxes to the state.
"
CT: Millstone nuclear plant plans to lay off 50 to 75 employees
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Between 50 and 75 people will be laid off April 1 at Millstone nuclear power complex in Waterford, Connecticut's largest power plant.
"
CT: Investigators remove evidence from Kleen Energy plant
From: feeds.stateline.org
"MIDDLETOWN, Conn. -- Investigators on Tuesday removed several key pieces of evidence, including combustible-gas detectors that could have alerted workers that there was a potentially dangerous buildup, from the scene of the Kleen Energy power plant explosion in which five people died.
"
CT: Kleen Energy plant's general contractor has solid reputation, past controversy
From: feeds.stateline.org
"O&G Industries, the general contractor for the Kleen Energy plant that exploded Sunday, is no stranger to sensitive projects, or to controversy, despite a strong reputation in the business.
"
CT: Middletown plant damaged in blast insured for $877 million
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Middletown power plant that exploded Sunday was insured for damages totaling as much as $877 million to the facility alone, according to documents filed with the state.
"
FL: Half of homes in South Florida sell for a loss
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Nearly half of South Florida homes sold in December did so at a loss, a 4 percent increase from the previous year and a "disturbing" sign for anyone with a home on the market.
"
FL: Alex Sink publicly scolds Florida's top financial regulator
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Chief Financial Officer Alex Sink lambasted the state's top financial regulator at the Cabinet meeting Tuesday for not aggressively pursing litigation against Bank of America -- her former employer -- for its deal with Merrill Lynch.
"
FL: Compromise allows major Port Everglades expansion, preserves mangroves
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A breakthrough deal to preserve coastal mangroves will allow Port Everglades to move ahead with a key part of its $2 billion expansion, potentially opening the harbor to super-freighters.
"
GA: Georgia bill would expand Medicare for disabled
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A bill pushed by Sen. Don Thomas, R-Dalton, that would expand Medicare coverage for those under 65 who have a disability or kidney failure has passed the Senate Insurance and Labor Committee.
"
GA: Bill would regulate communications companies
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A House bill that promises to roll back old regulations put all communications companies on a level playing field, while adding no new taxes sailed through the Georgia Senate this morning. HB 168, a holdover from last session, passed 44-4.
"
GA: Energy-efficiency bill would give a $2,500 tax credit
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Trade unions like it. Republicans like it. Democrats have signed on. It would put people to work. It would help the environment.
"
GA: Lawmakers eye potential $300 million sales tax windfall
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Georgia could potentially see a $300 million-a-year boost to state revenues through tighter controls over sales tax collections under legislation being proposed in the House.
"
GA: Georgia DOT praises stimulus, asks for more
From: feeds.stateline.org
"As the year-old federal transportation stimulus winds down, Georgia Department of Transportation leaders on Tuesday praised its accomplishments and called for more.
"
HI: Marathon adds to state's bottom line
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Spending and visitor arrivals for the Honolulu Marathon have remained at a good pace, with participants spending more than $100 million for the fifth year in a row, despite the tourism industry languishing in a cool-down period.
"
HI: Hawaii gambling bills advance in House
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A bill that could lead to casinos on Hawaiian Home Lands passed out of the state House Judiciary Committee, while a separate measure that would allow a single casino on O'ahu also advanced yesterday.
"
HI: Film studio firm wants tax credits
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A Los Angeles company that wants to build a $109 million film studio in Kapolei that could provide 1,645 jobs and an $80 million annual payroll in an emerging Hawaii film industry is asking lawmakers for tax credits to help fund the project.
"
HI: School-days bill may hit snag
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Several bills that would mandate a set number of instructional days or hours a year for public schools could be hindered by the provisions in the state Constitution that give public employees the right to collectively bargain labor contracts.
"
IA: What does latest snowfall mean for flood potential?
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Snow continued to fall Tuesday on Eastern Iowa, causing cancellations across the area and raising concerns that the area might get a repeat of the 2008 flooding this summer.
"
IA: Film tax-credit program faces unclear future
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Iowa's troubled film tax-credit program could be in limbo for some time while legal issues shake out and lawmakers get a better sense of the state's financial exposure for projects already in the pipeline, officials said Tuesday.
"
IA: Miller, other Democrat attorneys general, back independent financial consumer agency
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Iowa Attorney General Tom Miller urged the adoption of an independent financial consumer protection agency as part of federal financial industry reform, a point on which a measure in the U.S. Senate has been stuck.
"
IA: Bill essentially allows farms to "dump manure" into water ways, opponents say
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A bill introduced Monday and passed by a House Committee today would weaken a law passed last year that prohibits the spread of manure on snow-covered fields, a state official and a citizen action group said today.
"
ID: Hiring illegal aliens could result in spilt milk Bill would penalize businesses hiring illegals
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Idaho businesses could lose their licenses if they knowingly hire illegal aliens, under legislation proposed Tuesday in the House State Affairs Committee.
"
ID: Land board to mull public schools money
From: feeds.stateline.org
"In a state where lawmakers writing next year's budget are no longer scouring under rocks but pebbles for new money to avoid deeper cuts, public schools chief Tom Luna gave everyone a jolt.
"
ID: Land board to mull public schools money
From: feeds.stateline.org
"In a state where lawmakers writing next year's budget are no longer scouring under rocks but pebbles for new money to avoid deeper cuts, public schools chief Tom Luna gave everyone a jolt."
ID: Land board to mull public schools money
From: feeds.stateline.org
"In a state where lawmakers writing next year's budget are no longer scouring under rocks but pebbles for new money to avoid deeper cuts, public schools chief Tom Luna gave everyone a jolt."
ID: Idaho chief economist stands by forecast
From: feeds.stateline.org
"As legislative budget writers prepare to adopt a budget for the rest of fiscal year 2010 and all of 2011, Idaho chief economist Mike Ferguson told House Democrats that he remains confident in his forecast of $2.35 billion for 2010 and $2.43 billion in 2011.
"
ID: Idaho House passes bill aimed at scuttling health reform
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Idaho House Republicans passed a bill Tuesday meant to excuse Idahoans from proposed federal requirements for residents or companies to buy health insurance.
"
IL: Snow moves into Northwest Indiana
From: feeds.stateline.org
"This morning's rush on Chicago-area expressways promises to be tamer than yesterday's. The snowstorm that pounded the region starting early Tuesday has moved east, over Lake Michigan and to Northwest Indiana.
"
IL: Dangerous commute expected as storm leaves Ill.
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A storm that buried parts of Illinois in nearly a foot of snow and grounded hundreds of flights was crawling east early Wednesday, leaving behind strong winds that safety officials warned would create a dangerous morning commute.
"
IL: Illinoisans slated to lose jobless benefits without new extension
From: feeds.stateline.org
"ROCKFORD, Ill. -- Illinoisans who are receiving unemployment checks face another ticking clock from the federal government.
"
IL: Illinois to step up fight against Asian carp
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Fisheries biologists will begin another targeted removal of Asian carp from Chicago waterways next week, using nets, electrofishing and possibly another chemical poisoning to stop advancement of the invasive species into Lake Michigan, an Illinois wildlife official told a congressional panel Tuesday in Washington.
"
IN: Wide-ranging NIRPC streets policy plan will get new look
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Northwestern Indiana Regional Planning Commission staff received a setback Tuesday when the agency's Transportation Policy Committee effectively delayed adoption of a new far-reaching policy for approval of road projects.
"
IN: Task force endorses regional taxes for mass transit
From: feeds.stateline.org
"After 30 years of government studies of a regional transportation system, an influential private-sector group on Wednesday is set to unveil its own plan that includes commuter rail and even toll lanes added to local interstate highways.
"
IN: CVS, state settle licensing case
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Indiana attorney general isn't calling it a fee or a fine, but as part of a settlement over complaints about expired pharmacists' licenses, the state hopes to recoup $1.95 million and make a point to a U.S. drugstore giant.
"
IN: Is mass transit in for major makeover?
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A group of Central Indiana business leaders will unveil today an ambitious, nearly $10 billion plan to create rail lines and tolled express lanes, as well as expanded bus service -- a plan they say will ease clogged highways and spur economic development.
"
KS: Kansas lawmaker proposes that hunters be allowed to target mountain lions
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A Kansas legislator is proposing that hunters be allowed to target mountain lions in the state.
"
KS: Senate to take up resolution against schools using tax dollars to sue state
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A resolution aimed at discouraging a lawsuit by school districts against the state of Kansas is heading for a Senate debate.
"
KS: Proposed constitutional amendment to block federal health care reform considered
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Opponents of federal programs on Tuesday pushed for an amendment to the state constitution that they said would prevent the federal government from forcing Kansans to have health insurance.
"
KS: Kansans rally for statewide smoking ban, point to health benefits
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Americans have come a long way when it comes to implementing smoke-free areas.
"
KS: Bill would let poor couples to waive marriage fee
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A Kansas House member has proposed a bill that would allow people to waive the state's marriage license fee if they can't afford it.
"
KS: Kansas Board of Education approves two district consolidations
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Kansas State Board of Education has approved requests that would allow four school districts to consolidate into two districts.
"
KY: Tax hike rejected on premium snuff
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Kentucky fans of Copenhagen and Skoal can spit easy. A proposed tax increase on premium snuff was rejected Tuesday by a House committee.
"
KY: Bill allowing winery expansion advances
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A Senate Committee Tuesday approved a bill aimed at helping Kentucky's wine industry expand. Sen. Damon Thayer, R-Georgetown, said his bill would allow winemakers to produce unlimited gallons of wine and make them subject to the 11 percent wholesale tax.
"
LA: Krewe of Champions
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Only a Super Bowl victory parade could upstage Mardi Gras in New Orleans.
"
MA: Study -- Boston sliding into new housing slump
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Greater Boston property values seem poised to suffer a "double-dip" decline, as the Hub housing market's first rebound in five years appears to have stalled.
"
MA: Casino deal goes sour
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Tribe leaders may be looking to cut ties with the people who financed their quest for federal recognition, but some of those investors don't want to go quietly.
"
MA: Biotech bigs spend for pol
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state's top biotechnology lobbying group held a fund-raiser yesterday for Rep. Michael Rodrigues, a Westport Democrat who tried to block a state law that requires drug firms and medical device makers to disclose payments to doctors for endorsing their products.
"
MA: Massport salaries soar on buybacks
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Nearly one-third of Massport employees jumped on the agency's vacation buyback express last year, rolling home with more than $1 million in bonus pay - a deluxe perk doled out amid painful state cutbacks and layoffs.
"
MD: Measure would end driving service for state officials
From: feeds.stateline.org
"House Republican leader Anthony J. O'Donnell wants to strip all but the state's two top officials of their drivers, calling the benefit a "fat-cat" service that should be eliminated in harsh budget times.
"
MD: State may fine for piercing minors without parent OK
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Maryland could fine people who tattoo, body pierce or brand minors without their parents giving in-person written consent, under a bill in the General Assembly.
"
ME: House OKs carrier for Portland
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A plan to bring the decommissioned aircraft carrier USS John F. Kennedy to Portland Harbor as a tourist attraction and museum got support from the Maine House on Tuesday.
"
ME: Town votes for marijuana moratorium
From: feeds.stateline.org
"HOULTON, Maine — Town councilors stood firmly behind a 180-day moratorium on the location or licensing of any medical marijuana dispensaries within the town Monday evening, joining other communities across the state that are awaiting final decisions on a recently passed law that allows the dispensaries.
"
ME: State eyes federal jobs bill
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Legislative leaders called on Congress Tuesday to pass another stimulus package featuring tax breaks for small businesses that add employees, investment in infrastructure improvements and additional financial relief for states.
"
MI: GDLS gets $253 million contract to support Stryker combat vehicle
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Sterling Heights-based General Dynamics Land Systems has received a $253 million contract from the U.S. Army TACOM Lifecycle Management Command in Warren.
"
MI: Granholm calls Obama carp plan weak
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WASHINGTON -- The Obama administration proposed Monday a $78.5 million plan to try to prevent the voracious Asian carp from getting into the Great Lakes, but Gov. Jennifer Granholm said it falls short of what's needed to protect the fragile ecosystem from another threat.
"
MI: Panel gets call to shut locks against carp
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WASHINGTON -- Closing shipping canals and locks in Chicago won't be the silver bullet to keep invasive Asian carp out of the Great Lakes, a Notre Dame professor told a House panel Tuesday, but should be a priority.
"
MI: House GOP -- Don't let government get in the way of businesses
From: feeds.stateline.org
"House Republicans unveiled their plan today to create more jobs in Michigan, saying the best way is to get state government out of the way of businesses.
"
MN: Attorney General alleges health company deceit
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Minnesota Attorney General Lori Swanson is taking up lawsuits against two health coverage companies she alleges dealt dishonestly with customers.
"
MN: Senate passes $1 billion capital projects bill
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Democratic-controlled Senate has passed a $1 billion construction projects bill, ignoring Republican Gov. Tim Pawlenty's veto threat.
"
MN: Moody's lowers Minnesota outlook to negative amid budget woes
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Moody's Investors Service lowered its ratings outlook on Minnesota to negative from stable, citing the state's ongoing financial and economic weakness as tax revenue underperforms and liquidity tightens.
"
MO: Mo. House to consider Gov. Nixon's budget proposal
From: feeds.stateline.org
"For the first time in eight years, Missouri House members will get a chance to consider the governor's budget recommendations.
"
MO: Missouri budget director says schools won't get full funding
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Budget pressures will prevent Missouri from fully funding its school aid package this year.
"
MS: Mesaba Airlines to continue Tupelo service
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The U.S. Department of Transportation has directed Mesaba Airlines to continue air service in Tupelo through at least March 15 or until replacement service begins.
"
MT: Budget-cutting suggestions inundate governor's office
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Montanans have offered more than 700 suggestions for making cuts to the state budget, from cutting or eliminating the state motor pool to consolidating school districts and counties.
"
NC: Company pays fine linked to politician
From: feeds.stateline.org
"NEW BERN, N.C. -- The corporate owner of a Youngsville-based law enforcement equipment manufacturer has agreed to pay $12.6 million in criminal and civil fines for alleged violations involving former state Sen. John Carrington.
"
NC: Hearing scheduled on trial for Ruffin Poole
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Federal prosecutors and the lawyer for an ex-aide to former North Carolina Gov. Mike Easley will argue at a hearing over when the trial will start.
"
NC: Sentencing ready for 2 in permit scheme
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A federal judge is prepared to sentence two former company investors for conspiring to give $196,000 in cash and consulting fees to a then-state employee to expedite an air quality permit for an ethanol plant.
"
NE: Court verdict may not matter in state fairgrounds move
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Even if the Nebraska Supreme Court responds to Tuesday's oral arguments by declaring legislation moving the State Fair to Grand Island unconstitutional, it may not alter the end result.
"
NH: Call made to repeal LLC tax
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Republicans and a group of small business owners brought pressure on lawmakers yesterday to repeal what's known as the LLC tax.
"
NJ: Nonprofit group says N.J. needs to coordinate anti-poverty efforts
From: feeds.stateline.org
"New Jersey needs to coordinate programs to fight poverty that disproportionately affects children, minorities and households headed by women, a nonprofit organization said today.
"
NJ: N.J. School Report Card shows nearly 8 percent increase in per-student costs
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Per-pupil spending in New Jersey increased by 7.9 percent — or an average of $1,003 per student — in 2008-09, the first year of the state's new school funding formula, according to the state's annual School Report Card data released today.
"
NJ: Christie warns Atlantic City
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Christie yesterday warned the mayor of Atlantic City to "get his house in order" but said he was not about to appoint a state monitor to oversee the troubled city.
"
NJ: Schools are likely targets for N.J. budget cuts
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A key Republican lawmaker says he expects school-aid cuts when Gov. Christie lays out his budget plans tomorrow.
"
NJ: Christie freezes affordable-housing rules
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Christie signed an executive order yesterday freezing the enforcement of New Jersey's affordable-housing regulations for 90 days, drawing an immediate challenge from housing advocates.
"
NJ: Christie 'encouraged' by bipartisan pension, benefit reform package
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Chris Christie yesterday said he is encouraged by a bipartisan package of pension and benefit reforms poised to speed through the state Senate, calling such changes "the best kind of property tax reform you can have."
"
NJ: Students in wealthy districts score higher on SATs, New Jersey School Report Card shows
From: feeds.stateline.org
"North Jersey students in affluent suburban high schools consistently had dramatically higher SAT scores on average than those in poor urban areas, the New Jersey School Report Card released Tuesday shows.
"
NM: New studies cast doubt on film incentives
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Thor is coming to New Mexico, but even the Norse God of Thunder would have a tough time hammering out all the confusing data regarding the pros and cons of film incentives around the country.
"
NM: Senate votes to override Guv's veto of 2009 SIC reform bill
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Senators on Tuesday voted 33-4 to overturn Gov. Bill Richardson's 2009 veto of a bill that would have given the Legislature more say over who sits on the State Investment Council.
"
NM: NM to accept bids on $249M in bonds
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state of New Mexico will accept bids on a quarter of a billion dollars worth of bonds on Tuesday, Feb. 16.
"
NV: NV Energy's planned cuts spark protest
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Some 200 union workers rallied in rain Tuesday to protest planned reduced health care benefits for NV Energy retirees and cutbacks in the utility company's work force.
"
NV: Nevada's budget woes -- Dentures, diapers for elderly out under proposed reductions, officials say
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Poor people eligible for free Medicaid health care no longer would receive eyeglasses, dentures, hearing aids or as many adult diapers under the $109 million in social service spending reductions proposed by Gov. Jim Gibbons.
"
NV: Hundreds rally to protest governor's proposed budget cuts
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Cloudy skies and a chilly drizzle did little to dampen the enthusiasm of the estimated 700 UNLV students who turned out for a campus rally today to protest proposed budget cuts to higher education.
"
NV: Delay in signing proclamation allows campaign fundraising to continue
From: feeds.stateline.org
"While Gov. Jim Gibbons called Monday for a special session of the Legislature to convene Feb. 23, he hasn't yet signed the official proclamation.
"
NV: Liberal base demands action from Democrats on state budget
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Some members of the liberal wing of the Nevada Democratic Party, including the heads of the teachers union and the powerful Culinary Union, are attacking what they regard as the party's timidity in the face of massive budget cuts proposed by Gov. Jim Gibbons.
"
NY: State eyes Rochester's market authority's assets
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Over the past 54 years, a little-known public entity run mostly by farmers has transformed 123 acres along Jefferson Road in Henrietta from a fledgling wholesale food distribution center to a commercial juggernaut hosting scores of business, from hotels to banks to restaurants.
"
NY: Summary of the New York state of the state address
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. David Paterson (D), facing what could be a difficult primary campaign this year, proposed a plan Jan. 6 that he said would fix New York’s shattered finances, rejuvenate its slumping economy and restore trust in government through a series of major ethics reforms.
"
OH: Over 300 jobs expected from grants to Dayton, Springfield companies
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Three area companies — two in Dayton and another in Springfield — will receive more than $845,000 in economic development grants from the Ohio Department of Development, the department said late Monday, Feb. 8.
"
OK: Questions remain about Oklahoma toll-free calling plan
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The debate continued Tuesday on a plan to make all in-state calls in Oklahoma toll-free.
"
OK: Oklahoma Senate committee advances grocery sales tax removal
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Senate Finance Committee on Tuesday advanced a measure to remove the sales tax on groceries.
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OK: Oklahoma general fund revenue improves in January
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Treasurer Scott Meacham said state general fund revenue collections improved somewhat in January despite coming in 20 percent below projections.
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OR: Oregon farm sales drop, 2010 may not be better
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A disturbing drop in Oregon crop, livestock and dairy product sales last year has a wide swath of the state's farmers and ranchers looking for answers and preparing for another tough year ahead.
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OR: Oregon Business Energy Tax Credit program will bring future liabilities
From: feeds.stateline.org
"As the Oregon Legislature tries to stabilize the budget-busting growth of its Business Energy Tax Credit program, it has become clear that the state is already locked into a large and unpredictable stream of future liabilities from the program.
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PA: New gas drilling rules, more staff for Pennsylvania's environmental agency
From: feeds.stateline.org
"For months, the gas drilling industry and environmentalists alike have been fixated on New York, waiting for its environmental agency to hash out final drilling regulations so companies can take advantage of the vast gas reserves buried there.
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PA: Area gets ready to shut down for the snow
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A mix of rain, sleet and snow is currently falling, creating treacherous conditions as the second powerful - most likely record-breaking - storm wallops the area within just a few days.
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PA: State public interest group urges support for high-speed trains
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A Pennsylvania public interest group on Tuesday urged the federal government to set a goal of connecting every major city in the U.S. with a network of high-speed passenger trains by mid-century.
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PA: Bonusgate witness' affair described
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Jurors heard intimate details of a key witness's sex life Tuesday as defense attorneys tried to call his credibility into question by grilling him about an affair with a woman he set up in a no-work state job.
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PA: Increases planned for public schools under Rendell budget plan
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State Education Secretary Gerald Zahorchak said the governor's proposed budget for 2010-11 reflects hard choices, including providing more money for public basic education while holding steady the money for public higher education.
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PA: Those facing new levy under Rendell budget plan voice displeasure
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The butcher and the baker remain unscathed, but the lawyer, the plumber and the casket-maker would all be taxed under the state budget proposal unveiled Tuesday by Democratic Gov. Ed Rendell.
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PA: Rendell seeks to broaden sales tax
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Ed Rendell is a man who likes challenges, and he took on some big ones Tuesday when he proposed a fiscal 2010-11 budget that increases state spending by more than $1 billion in a time of recession and proposes eliminating 74 "non-essential" sales-tax exemptions.
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RI: PUC lowers electricity rate hike
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WARWICK, R.I. — After a nearly six-hour hearing Tuesday on National Grid's proposal to raise electric rates, only one thing was clear: Rhode Island's dominant utility will not get the 11.2-percent increase it was seeking.
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SC: Agency doesn't require performance reviews
From: feeds.stateline.org
"South Carolina's problem-plagued Employment Security Commission is among a handful of agencies that don't require annual performances for their chief executive officer or director -- and critics of the agency say it's another sign the ESC needs an overhaul.
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SD: State and federal team views storm damage
From: feeds.stateline.org
"In response to the lengthy power outages and water shortages due to severe winter storms, several federal and state agencies will conduct damage assessments on the Standing Rock and Cheyenne River Indian reservations and impacted counties over the next two weeks.
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SD: SD, ND beef plants form partnership
From: feeds.stateline.org
"SIOUX FALLS, S.D. -- Organic beef producer Dakota Beef is ending its packing operation in the southeastern South Dakota town of Howard and entering into a partnership with North Dakota Natural Beef in Fargo.
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TN: Bill would ban late-night 'Girls Gone Wild' ads
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A proposal that would ban late-night TV ads showing half-naked young women is advancing in the Senate — again.
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TN: Tennessee lottery sales surging due to 2 new games
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Tennessee lottery officials say sales are surging because of two new games: Mega Millions and Millionaire Jumbo Bucks.
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TN: Bredesen challenges legislators on taxes
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Phil Bredesen on Tuesday challenged lawmakers to approve his plan to eliminate a tax exemption on cable bills or else find another way to restore funding for higher education and save 200 state employees' jobs.
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TN: Tennessee lawmaker -- Enforce liquor law
From: feeds.stateline.org
"There are no bars in Tennessee, according to the letter of the law, which says establishments must derive a majority of their business from the sale of food in order to obtain an alcohol permit.
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TX: Mansfield couple's fight with powerful homebuilder back in court
From: feeds.stateline.org
"FORT WORTH, Texas— When Bob and Jane Cull returned to court last week in their decade-long legal battle against homebuilder Bob Perry, it was like starting all over again.
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TX: County punches its ticket for rail group
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Commissioners Court decided Tuesday to buy a $50,000 ticket to get Harris County aboard a movement to bring high-speed rail to Texas.
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US: $7.2 billion for broadband is largely unallocated
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Obama administration's stimulus package includes $7.2 billion to extend broadband Internet access to parts of the country where it's not widely available. The government has given out just a fraction of that money so far — and some applicants for the funding say major telecom companies are trying to block those projects.
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US: Reid hopes to complete jobs bill this week
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WASHINGTON — Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D., Nev.) said Tuesday he hopes to complete work on a roughly $80 billion job-creation bill by the end of the week, even though he expects the Senate to be closed Wednesday due to a severe winter storm heading toward the nation's capital.
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US: Long-term care hospitals face little scrutiny
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Lawsuits, state inspection reports and statistics deep in federal reports paint a troubling picture of the care offered at some Select hospitals, and at long-term care hospitals in general.
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UT: Food stamp demand slows, but need is still high
From: feeds.stateline.org
"During the recession, Donald Roberts and his small family have continually sacrificed, giving up an apartment and even a baby, to adoption -- when her arrival was more than the family could financially and otherwise bear.
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UT: Legislators, guv agree to cut $70M to cover 2010 shortfall
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Legislative leaders have agreed with Gov. Gary Herbert to trim $70 million from the current year's budget, far less than legislators initially were targeting.
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VA: Environmental group signals that it could sue Beltway HOT lane contractor
From: feeds.stateline.org
"An environmental group announced Tuesday that it intends to file suit against one of the contractors building high-occupancy lanes on the Beltway in Virginia, saying dirt from the construction site has choked a nearby creek.
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VA: Virginia governor's anti-bias order removes language regarding sexual orientation
From: feeds.stateline.org
"RICHMOND, Va. -- Virginia Gov. Robert F. McDonnell has signed an executive order barring discrimination in the state workforce on grounds that include race, sex, religion and age, but not sexual orientation.
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VA: Panel passes in-state commerce legislation
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A House committee yesterday passed Del. Mark Cole's bill to get the federal government out of in-state commerce.
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VA: Human microchips seen by some in Virginia House as device of antichrist
From: feeds.stateline.org
"RICHMOND, Va. -- The House of Delegates is scheduled to vote Wednesday on a bill that would protect Virginians from attempts by employers or insurance companies to implant microchips in their bodies against their will.
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VT: Douglas proposes eliminating 55 state panels
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Jim Douglas is proposing to abolish a host of boards and commissions, many of which have fallen inactive, though the list also includes the Vermont Film Commission and the Public Oversight Commission, which are functioning.
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VT: Dealer.com expanding; the question is, where?
From: feeds.stateline.org
"When managers of Dealer.com were deciding where to locate their headquarters, they narrowed their choices to Manhattan Beach, Calif., and Vermont. Now, the Burlington-based company is making that decision again.
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WA: High-speed rail -- Spend $50 billion?
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A report today by the U.S. Public Interest Research Group points out what several Times readers have noticed -- the Obama Administration's recently announced $8 billion stimulus program for trains hardly brings "high-speed rail" to most regions, including the Northwest.
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WA: Senate approves flood risk pool
From: feeds.stateline.org
"If the Green River rises over its banks, there's a chance that people all over Washington could help pay for the damage.
State leaders are contemplating the creation of a state-run insurance pool that would help businesses in Kent, Auburn and other communities along the river.
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WA: Husky Stadium, Safeco Field cut out of tax plan... for now
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A legislative panel on Tuesday stripped Husky Stadium and Safeco Field out of a bill that divvies up hundreds of millions of dollars in future King County tax revenues.
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WI: AT&T pushes for oversight-reduction bill
From: feeds.stateline.org
"At issue is the heavier hand of regulation that falls on traditional phone companies, which send phone and Internet traffic over telephone poles and copper wires. In Wisconsin, the biggest of these companies is AT&T, which formerly was known as Ameritech.
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WI: Witnesses at hearing agree carp pose danger
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WASHINGTON -- A snowstorm paralyzed the nation's capital Tuesday, but the wintry blast could not keep a handful of hearty Midwestern officials - and even a couple of dead Asian carp - from attending a congressional hearing on the possible Great Lakes invasion of the voracious fish.
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WI: Alternate payday loan bill emerges
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Democrats in the Legislature are promising tough new regulations on payday lenders, but some advocates for the poor say their efforts fall short.
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WI: Big cleanup follows slow, steady storm
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The storm that over two days slowly and steadily covered the Milwaukee area with powdery snow a foot deep in some places will be followed by at least a couple days of slow and steady cleanup.
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WV: Manchin to study power companies' response
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state's two largest power companies are coming under increased scrutiny for their response to snowstorms that have left hundreds of thousands of West Virginians without power at one time or another since before Christmas.
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WV: Felony animal fighting penalty up for Senate vote
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Legislation that would make it a felony to operate an animal fighting venue will send a message that West Virginians will not tolerate dog fighting or cockfighting, the bill's lead sponsor said Tuesday.
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WY: Bill to tell feds to back off health care fails in Wyo Senate
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Wyoming Senate today voted down on its first reading a bill that would have "sent a message to Washington," according to it's sponsors, to not impose it's health care changes on the state.
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WY: Home value transparency gets nod
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A Senate committee Tuesday approved a bill that ensures that your county assessor's method of determining the value of your house is transparent.
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WY: Local control
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Wyoming House of Representatives is taking the first steps toward possibly telling the federal government to back off on a range of states' rights issues, from gun control to endangered species management.
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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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Weekly wrap: Fed report doubts energy states will recover first
From: feeds.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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From: feeds.stateline.org
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