Amid recall, four governors defend Toyota
From: feeds.stateline.org
"TODAY’S TAKE: The governors of Alabama, Indiana, Kentucky and Mississippi — all states that are home to Toyota plants —on Wednesday (Feb. 10) defended the Japanese automaker amid its worldwide recall of millions of cars.
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US: Mounting urgency as Asian carp threaten the Great Lakes
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A congressional hearing this week on Asian carp in the Great Lakes region raises scientific questions and political difficulties. What are the best ways to prevent invasive fish from proliferating, and what would be the economic impact of blocking their passage from the Mississippi River?
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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: Fairbanks fur tanner appointed to state game board
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Sean Parnell has appointed Fairbanks fur tanner Al Barrette to the Alaska Board of Game, ending a one-year hiatus when nobody living north of the Alaska Range was on the seven-person board that regulates hunting and trapping in the state.
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AK: Alaska child psychiatrists sued
From: feeds.stateline.org
"An Alaska mental health advocacy group that has spent years battling the pharmaceutical industry over medication is suing more than a dozen Alaska child psychiatrists, saying the doctors unnecessarily drugged children and committed Medicaid fraud.
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AK: Bill links Alaska hiring to oil tax reductions
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A bill in the state House could give oil companies tax breaks worth millions for hiring local people -- even if they add just a handful of Alaskans to their payrolls, according to state revenue officials.
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AK: Senate majority wants more capital spending
From: feeds.stateline.org
"While higher-than-expected oil prices have fattened state coffers, Alaska Gov. Sean Parnell said Tuesday he's imposing spending restraint in the Capitol.
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AL: Business is booming at Indian casinos
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WETUMPKA, Ala. -- Indian ca sinos in Alabama are open, bustling and expanding as most of their state-regulated competitors have closed their doors under the threat of raids.
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AL: Committee OKs bill to block bingo raids
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Opposition by the governor and the Alabama District Attorneys Association wasn't enough to stop legis lation that would halt raids on casinos by the governor's anti-gambling task force.
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AL: Alabama House committee approves three PACT bills
From: feeds.stateline.org
"An Alabama House committee has approved three bills that supporters say will ensure college tuition is paid for 45,000 children whose parents bought contracts in the state's prepaid college tuition program.
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AL: Gambling task force seeks sealed records in VictoryLand suit
From: feeds.stateline.org
"John Tyson, the head of the governor's gambling task force, is seeking access to potential evidence in a lawsuit alleging bribery and racketeering in connection with VictoryLand, Gov. Bob Riley's press office announced Wednesday.
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AR: Lottery bill gets go-ahead; Senate balks at allowing spending bill
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The House and Senate cleared the way for setting the amounts for lottery-funded college scholarships today, but the Senate balked at authorizing consideration of a bill setting spending priorities for next fiscal year.
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AZ: Tucson lawmaker carries torch for light bulb battle with feds
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A former U.S. Army Green Beret serving in the Arizona Legislature is itching for a fight with the federal government over national regulations he says infringes on the rights and liberties of states and citizens.
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AZ: Northwestern Arizona casino closing its doors
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A casino in northwestern Arizona is closing its doors at the end of February. The Crossing Casino in Fort Mojave has 205 gaming machines and employs 29 workers.
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AZ: Western Union prepares to settle with state
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A major money-wiring corporation will pay Arizona millions of dollars to end a lawsuit filed against it by the state.
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AZ: Arizona quits Western climate endeavor
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Arizona will no longer participate in a groundbreaking attempt to limit greenhouse-gas emissions across the West, a change in policy by Gov. Jan Brewer that will include a review of all the state's efforts to combat climate change.
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CA: GOP legislators aim to cut red tape, lawsuits to boost Cailfornia job growth
From: feeds.stateline.org
"California legislative Republicans said Wednesday they'll be rolling out their own bills over the next several weeks to try to spur private-sector job growth by cutting regulations on businesses and trying to reduce lawsuits.
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CA: Bill would boost CalPERS, CalSTRS election transparency
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Candidates running for spots on the boards of California's two largest public employee pension funds would be required to complete and publicly file more detailed campaign finance information under a bill introduced in the Senate today.
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CA: 2 former San Bernardino County officials accused of bribery
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Former San Bernardino County Supervisor Bill Postmus and the county's former assistant assessor were arrested Wednesday on suspicion of accepting bribes to push for a $102-million settlement between the county and a developer, state and county prosecutors said.
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CO: Twitter fight -- ProgressNow's Franklin versus Sen. Brophy
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State Senator Greg Brophy, the anti-tax Republican warrior from Wray, is tweeting from the Senate floor, where debate continues on whether Colorado should begin to levy sales tax on internet purchases.
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CO: Sen. Mitchell calls on lawmakers to safeguard 'domestic pleasure appliance' purchases against prying eyes of the state
From: feeds.stateline.org
"In heated debate Wednesday over controversial legislation aimed at taxing purchases from out-of-state online retailers, Sen. Shawn Mitchell, R-Broomfield, argued that a proposed amendment to failed to fully guard purchaser privacy.
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CO: Colorado Senate narrowly passes soda, candy, energy tax bills
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Colorado Senate narrowly passed bills taxing candy and soda and energy used in manufacturing despite fears that the taxes could cause layoffs.
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CO: House panel backs corner-store sales of full-strength beer
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Colorado beer drinkers came closer than ever Wednesday to being able to buy a six-pack of full-strength beer at the same convenience stores where they purchase gas, cigarettes and snacks.
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CO: Colorado's exports plunged in 2009
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The global recession shaved nearly $2 billion off Colorado exports last year, according to trade numbers from the state.
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CO: Anti-poverty remark stirs Colorado Dems' anger
From: feeds.stateline.org
"People who don't want to live in poverty should stop having children when they're not married, Rep. Spencer Swalm, R-Centennial, argued Monday during a floor debate on a bill to ease tax burdens on low-income families.
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CO: Colorado schools spread word on cuts
From: feeds.stateline.org
"School districts girding for draconian cuts in state funding are sending out surveys to parents, querying staff and asking community members to help figure out where to cut and how deeply.
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CO: Lawyer, education supporter to sue Colorado over TABOR
From: feeds.stateline.org
"As a lawyer, Herb Fenster defended Interior Secretary Gale Norton in Indian trust litigation.
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CT: Brother says work on Kleen Energy plant troubled blast victim
From: feeds.stateline.org
"NEW HAVEN, Conn. -- The brother of one of five workers killed in an explosion at a power plant under construction says his brother called the project "screwed up," and a worker on the job the day before the explosion says safety on the job was "substandard."
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CT: Democratic lawmakers, Rell propose ways for state to retain and retrain workers
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Democratic lawmakers and Gov. M. Jodi Rell are proposing cost savings for college students to help Connecticut retain and retrain workers.
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CT: Sunday liquor sales -- 3 Connecticut mayors making a new push
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Mayors of the state's three largest cities are calling for the sale of alcohol in package stores and supermarkets on Sundays, continuing a running controversy on a long-banned practice in Connecticut.
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DE: Dover ready for plant lease
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Dover City Council is ready to move ahead with a lease agreement with a private development firm that intends to build a 10-megawatt solar power plant on 96.3 acres in the city-owned Garrison Oak Technology Park on the city's east side.
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FL: Local governments file suit over state's new impact-fee law
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Local governments filed suit to overturn new restrictions on local impact fees Wednesday, saying the Legislature unconstitutionally forced them to prove their fees are accurate.
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FL: Drilling opponents mounting 'Hands Across Sand' protest
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Black-clad opponents of offshore oil drilling hope to mount the biggest protest in Florida history by joining hands along the coastline Saturday.
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FL: Rubio criticizes stimulus package at fundraiser
From: feeds.stateline.org
"FORT MYERS, Fla. -- U.S. Senate candidate Marco Rubio reveled in support from conservatives looking for a voice Wednesday in a part-fundraiser, part-pep rally that brought full circle one of the most stunning reversals in Florida politics.
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GA: Lawmakers ask Georgia Lottery Corp. to rethink bonuses
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Some top lawmakers want the Georgia Lottery Corp. to not hand out incentive pay – or bonuses – when teachers and state employees go without pay raises and face furlough
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GA: Secret details of Sonny Perdue's transportation plan?
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Friends have slipped us what we're told are two documents that show where Gov. Sonny Perdue may be headed on his yet-to-be unveiled transportation plan.
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HI: Campaign reformers applaud bill's failure
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Good government groups applauded the demise of a bill that they say would have weakened Hawaii's campaign spending laws by allowing some government contractors to donate to political campaigns.
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HI: Foreclosures on rise
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A triple-digit, year-over-year increase in statewide foreclosures in January left Hawaii with the highest back-to-back monthly total since 2005.
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HI: 2 gaming bills move forward in House
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Two gambling bills took a step toward becoming law this week as state legislators seek more revenue during the recession.
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HI: Senate measure requires at least 190 school days
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Public school students could spend a minimum of 190 days and 36 hours a week in class, based on a bill passed out of the Senate's Committee on Education and Housing yesterday.
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HI: State tackles unpaid rents
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Incoming public housing tenants could be subject to credit checks and visits to their current home under proposals meant to better screen applicants and cut down on delinquent renters.
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HI: Lawmakers shelve proposal for sports commission
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state Senate Committee on Economic Development and Technology has voted to defer indefinitely a proposal by Lt. Gov. James "Duke" Aiona to create a volunteer Hawaii Sports Commission.
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HI: School furloughs back in court
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals yesterday took up a case that seeks to halt "furlough Fridays" for special-education students in Hawai'i's public schools.
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HI: Lingle urged to sign off on rail
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Mayor Mufi Hannemann and a majority of state representatives yesterday pressured Gov. Linda Lingle to expeditiously review and approve the environmental impact statement for the city's planned $5.3 billion rail transit project.
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IA: Company bringing 75 jobs to area
From: feeds.stateline.org
"About 75 new jobs will come to the Iowa City area after a Cincinnati-based packaging company said it would open a new facility in Iowa City late next month.
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IA: Early-retirement plan for Iowa workers becomes law
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The head of Iowa's largest state-employees union applauded an early-retirement incentive signed into law Wednesday that he predicted will preserve jobs and save up to $60 million in state government costs.
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IA: January thaw -- Sales of homes hint at rebound
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Carrie Schoenebaum and her husband, Steve Flann, have loved fixing up their 1938 Beaverdale home over the past four years - restoring hardwood floors, remodeling the kitchen, painting and tackling other chores.
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IA: Bill would let greyhound racing end
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Iowa's greyhound tracks at Council Bluffs and Dubuque would be allowed to eliminate live racing and still operate their casinos under a bill approved Wednesday by the House State Government Committee.
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IA: Roads-use ethanol bill moves on to Senate
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A bill that would require that all gasoline sold for highway use in Iowa contain at least 10 percent ethanol passed the Iowa Senate Agriculture Committee by a voice vote on Wednesday.
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IA: Bill requiring sick leave moves forward in Senate
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A state senator is determined to help part-time and full-time Iowa employees get paid time off when they're sick, even if it's just a couple of days a year.
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IA: Backers urge more tax breaks
From: feeds.stateline.org
"While Iowa lawmakers are debating tough decisions like closing mental health institutions to address budget shortfalls, others are pushing ahead to deliver additional tax breaks to individuals and businesses.
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ID: State grants Luna $22M for education
From: feeds.stateline.org
"In this depressed economic climate, getting any state money is better than receiving nothing at all.
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ID: State approves Hayden Lake dock project
From: feeds.stateline.org
"HAYDEN, Idaho — A developer's plan to build a dock suitable for mooring up to 46 boats on the shores of Hayden Lake has been granted a key permit from the state.
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ID: Otter to support more cuts as Idaho revenue tanks
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. C.L. "Butch" Otter will support deeper cuts to Idaho's 2010 and 2011 budgets than he proposed in January after the state missed its tax revenue collection targets by a combined $25 million over the last two months.
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ID: Board opts to give schools $22 million in reserves
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state Board of Land Commissioners agreed Wednesday to withdraw an additional $22 million from a state land endowment reserve fund to help offset budget cuts for public schools during the next fiscal year.
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IL: Ill. foreclosure filings up 25% in a year
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Foreclosure filings in January decreased 10 percent from December but rose 15 percent compared with a year ago, according to RealtyTrac.
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IL: Sources -- FAA eyes hefty fines for American
From: feeds.stateline.org
"American Airlines could face a fine in the ballpark of $10 million for safety violations involving wiring in its large MD-80 fleet, according to a government official familiar with the nearly completed federal investigation.
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IN: Indiana House panel to take up jobless tax increase delay
From: feeds.stateline.org
"An Indiana House committee plans to consider a Senate bill that would delay for one year tax increases that employers pay into the state's unemployment insurance fund.
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IN: $2M expansion by Indianapolis DVD-maker to add 28 jobs
From: feeds.stateline.org
"World Media Group, a 130-employee compact disc and DVD replication facility on Indianapolis' Eastside, today said it plans to expand manufacturing operations, creating up to 28 jobs over the next two years.
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IN: Hoosiers livid over insurance increases
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Indiana customers of WellPoint are joining Californians in their outrage over steep hikes in the premiums they pay for individual health-insurance coverage.
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KS: Kansas House member frustrated by lack of tourism, business promotion on southeast Kansas highways
From: feeds.stateline.org
"House member Bill Otto gestures wildly with both hands while expressing deep frustration with the lack of highway promotional signs pointing to tourism or business hot spots in southeast Kansas.
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KS: Health advocates urge Kansas legislators to pass comprehensive indoor smoking ban
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Clean air advocates rallied Wednesday, urging passage of a statewide ban on smoking in indoor public places, such as restaurants and bars, and defeat of a proposed bill that contains numerous exemptions.
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KS: Bill addresses abortion, insurance
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A battle over abortion is brewing concerning a bill that is scheduled for a public hearing today before the House Insurance Committee.
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KS: Kansas House votes to cut pay 5 percent for elected and appointed officials
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Kansas House on Wednesday voted to cut the pay of elected and appointed state officials by 5 percent.
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KS: Kan. board suspends ed commissioner search
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The search for a new commissioner of the Kansas Department of Education has been suspended.
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KY: Senate panel passes bill allowing tree-trimming around billboards on public land
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A proposed law that would allow billboard companies to cut trees on public land that block billboards was unanimously approved Wednesday by the Senate Transportation Committee.
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KY: State revenue dropped another 3.3 percent in January
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State tax receipts continued to shrivel in January as money flowing into Kentucky's general fund sunk 3.3 percent compared to January 2009, State Budget Director Mary Lassiter said Wednesday.
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LA: State Farm rate hike denied
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon on Wednesday rejected State Farm Fire & Casualty Co.'s request to raise homeowner's insurance rates an average of 19.1 percent statewide, an amount he described as unreasonable.
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MA: Cape Wind savings pegged at billions
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The developer of the proposed Nantucket Sound wind farm released a study yesterday that claims the project would save $4.6 billion in New England's wholesale electric costs over 25 years.
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MA: Patrick wants health cost veto
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Governor Deval Patrick is seeking sweeping authority to review and reject rates charged by hospitals, physician groups, medical imaging centers, and insurers, in a broad new effort to make health care more affordable, particularly for smaller companies and their workers.
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MA: Film projection
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Massachusetts has the potential to develop a small but robust film industry that could establish the state as a leading production center and support thousands of good-paying jobs, according to a study to be released today by the University of Massachusetts at Boston.
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MA: State urges food allergy safety in restaurants
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Concerned by a rise in food allergies, Massachusetts health authorities plan this summer to start requiring that restaurant staff and their menus address diners' potential adverse reactions to nuts, dairy products, and other ingredients that can make pulses race and lungs tighten.
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MD: East Coast begins to emerge after back-to-back blizzards immobilize region
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The second of back-to-back blizzards that smothered the East Coast and eclipsed seasonal snowfall records with more than a month of winter remaining had tapered off by Thursday, although governments and schools remained closed to contend with the aftermath.
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MD: Citi to let distressed owners stay in homes
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WASHINGTON - Citigroup Inc. plans to let homeowners on the verge of foreclosure stay in their homes for six months - if they turn over the deed to their property.
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ME: Officials tell state -- Route 15 needs to be rebuilt
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Those occasional fluorescent orange bump signs on Route 15 from the Guilford-Abbot line to Jackman could almost be considered a cruel joke to drivers.
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MI: Michigan job losses stabilize, but improvements not expected until 2011-2012
From: feeds.stateline.org
"All states saw job market conditions deteriorate between 2008 and 2009, but none more so than Michigan, according to Gallup's Job Creation Index.
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MI: Michigan offers rebates for efficient appliances
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state opened up $8.8 million in rebates for consumers buying new energy-efficient appliances Wednesday, an amount expected to cover 120,000 purchases of new water heaters, furnaces and dishwashers.
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MI: Governors of states with Toyota plants defend beleaguered automaker
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Four governors from states with Toyota Motor Corp. plants spoke out Wednesday in defense of the Japanese automaker and questioned the U.S. government's conflict of interest as a stakeholder in some of Toyota's rivals.
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MI: Michigan budget forces Granholm, lawmakers to face tough decisions
From: feeds.stateline.org
"They've raised taxes. They've cut spending. They've balanced the budget with billions in federal stimulus dollars that won't be around next year.
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MN: Are they fleeing Minnesota taxes or bad weather?
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Minnesota is losing hundreds of millions of dollars in tax revenue from people who are "voting with their feet" by leaving for places with lower taxes, a conservative think tank said in a report released Tuesday.
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MN: Hard times dim glow of Pawlenty's final State of State
From: feeds.stateline.org
"These are supposed to be the high times for Gov. Tim Pawlenty. The Republican governor will give his last State of the State address at 11 a.m. Thursday.
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MO: Mo. ranks high for recent college funding hikes
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A new report ranks Missouri near the top nationally for recent funding increases to higher education.
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MO: Charter funding ruling on the way
From: feeds.stateline.org
"ST. LOUIS, Mo. - The state is preparing to rule on a feud that could force the cash-strapped St. Louis Public Schools to surrender untold millions of dollars in back pay to schools that have lured away thousands of students from the district.
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MT: Secretary of State cuts spending by 18 percent in a year
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Secretary of State Linda McCulloch said Wednesday her office has cut spending by 18 percent, or $1.3 million, in her first year of office.
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MT: After bad audit, Little Shell Tribe loses $417K in stimulus money
From: feeds.stateline.org
"BILLINGS, Mont. - State officials say $417,000 in federal stimulus money that had been slated for a Montana Indian tribe could instead go toward reducing a hole in the state's budget.
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MT: State Sen. Laslovich of Anaconda resigns seat to take job in auditor's office
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Sen. Jesse Laslovich, D-Anaconda, considered one of Montana's rising young political stars, resigned his legislative seat Wednesday.
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MT: State pension funds need improved returns to get back on track, director says
From: feeds.stateline.org
"After Montana's pension fund assets lost one-fourth of their value during the financial meltdown in fiscal 2008 and 2009, future investment performances must improve significantly to get back on track, the executive director of the Montana Board of Investments said Wednesday.
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NC: Cherokee tribe opposes Duke's building near sacred site
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians is fighting construction of a Duke Energy electrical station next to a mound that marks the tribe's ancestral home.
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NC: Pension fund ends year with an up arrow
From: feeds.stateline.org
"North Carolina's state pension fund ended 2009 with a 15 percent return on its investments, State Treasurer Janet Cowell announced Wednesday.
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NC: Judge puts premium on truth
From: feeds.stateline.org
"RALEIGH, N.C. -- A U.S. District Court judge had a clear message for those who stand before him charged with corruption: Mercy comes to those who tell all to investigators. U.S. District Court Judge Terrence Boyle was conducting a sentencing hearing Wednesday for two men who had previously pleaded guilty in a scheme to bribe a state official to secure quick permits for an Eastern North Carolina ethanol plant.
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NE: Bills would widen fireworks options
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Liberalizing the state's fireworks testing laws could bring Nebraska a fiscal bang, state lawmakers were told Wednesday.
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NE: Horsemen want new kind of wager
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Nebraska lawmakers were told the horse-racing industry in the state could wither and nearly die without a new form of betting. On Wednesday, lawmakers were asked to support a bill (LB1102) that would allow betting on previously run races.
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NJ: New Jersey is added to trial program to streamline health insurance paperwork
From: feeds.stateline.org
"As part of the discussion last year over how best to overhaul the nation's health care system, the insurance industry promised to do its part by tackling the burdensome paperwork involved in paying medical claims.
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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.
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NJ: Christie may cut aid to education today
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Christie plans to use an executive order today to cut about $450 million of state aid to education, according to two people familiar with his plans.
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NJ: Jury to resume deliberating in NJ corruption trial of Jersey City Deputy Mayor Leona Beldini
From: feeds.stateline.org
"NEWARK, N.J. — Jurors are scheduled to resume deliberations Thursday in the first trial stemming from New Jersey's largest corruption sting.
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NJ: Gov. Christie is expected to address N.J. budget, declare state of emergency
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Shrugging off a nasty snowstorm that threatened to keep some lawmakers home, Gov. Chris Christie is expected to deliver his first major speech on the state budget Thursday, laying out a wide array of cuts across hundreds of state programs and declaring a state of emergency so he can freeze aid to about 500 school districts, according to people familiar with his plans.
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NM: New Mexico municipal bonds up 6% in 2009
From: feeds.stateline.org
"New Mexico's municipal bond volume, helped by the federal stimulus' BAB program (Build America Bonds), grew by 5.8 percent in 2009.
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NM: Lobbyist contributions pass 50k for the session
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Some are straight donations and others are for receptions–but no matter the reason the total amount is $52,276.46.
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NM: Food advocate says modified food tax bill is 'palatable'
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A modified food tax bill that would add gross receipts tax to non-staple food is poised to become part of the budget package, it's sponsor, Sen. Bernadette Sanchez, D-Bernalillo, said in a statement issued late Monday.
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NM: 'Bad actor' legislation dies on House floor
From: feeds.stateline.org
"House lawmakers on Wednesday narrowly rejected giving power to state environmental regulators to consider a company's past crimes and regulatory punishments in other states when deciding whether to revoke or deny an air quality permit.
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NM: Legislature 2010 -- Measures to streamline government languish
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The government efficiency task force appointed by Gov. Bill Richardson came up with big proposals for combining state government departments this year to help with New Mexico's budget crisis.
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NM: Pojoaque Pueblo wants tax exemption on ranch land
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Santa Fe County Assessor's Office has asked the State Department of Taxation and Revenue for help deciding a property tax issue that could have statewide implications.
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NV: Nevada starts new year with same ranking -- No. 1 in foreclosures
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Nevada started 2010 leading the nation in the rate of foreclosure cases again, but lenders scaled back on the amount of filings from a year ago.
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NV: Unions fighting to reassert relevance
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Northern Nevada electrical workers brought a bitter contract fight with NV Energy to Las Vegas this week, picketing the utility's corporate headquarters to draw attention to the protracted negotiations.
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NV: Crackdown on uninsured drivers weighed to help fill state budget gap
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state's deficit has grown so dire that Gov. Jim Gibbons is seriously considering hiring a company to search Nevada roadways for uninsured motorists.
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NV: Mining trade group sues Nevada tax initiative
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Nevada's mining industry, being eyed as a source of more revenue to help the state fix a budget deficit of nearly $1 billion, has filed a lawsuit to block a petition asking voters to raise taxes on mining.
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NV: Nevada politics -- GOP targets state Senate
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Nevada Republican Party is undertaking a major drive to retake control of the state Senate and pick up more than half a dozen Assembly seats, helped by 17 term-limit retirements in both houses and a recession-sparked feeling of voter disappointment with the Democratic Party in power.
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NV: Plan to close youth prison questioned
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Legislators questioned Wednesday whether Gov. Jim Gibbons' plan to close the maximum-security Summit View Youth Correctional Center in Las Vegas would save money or just lead to problems at wide-open rural centers where offenders would be moved.
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NV: Pipeline future -- Water officials rush to craft bill in response to court ruling
From: feeds.stateline.org
"When lawmakers return to Carson City this month to wrestle with the state's $881 million budget deficit, water officials want them to take on another bit of business: the recent Supreme Court ruling that could doom the Southern Nevada Water Authority's multibillion-dollar pipeline project.
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NY: Appliance rebate program starts Friday
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The government-funded Cash for Clunkers automobile rebate program emptied out in no time. A "cash for appliances" program, which launches Friday in New York state as The Great Appliance Swap-out, may run out of money even faster.
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NY: State parks commissioner is planning for summer of reduced services
From: feeds.stateline.org
"NIAGARA FALLS, N.Y. — Some of New York State's parks and historic sites will remain closed this summer, others will be open fewer hours, some will have reduced services, and some will charge higher fees, all because of the state's precarious financial situation.
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NY: NYRA chief told to rein in costs
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state budget director wants New York Racing Association executives to do more belt-tightening and come clean on executive salaries.
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NY: Feds target VLT data
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Federal investigators want to know more about background materials collected on bidders pursuing the rights to run a racino at Aqueduct Racetrack -- including the controversial winner in the competition, Aqueduct Entertainment Group.
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OH: Cedar Fair shareholder vote set for March 16
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Amid mounting investor opposition, Cedar Fair Entertainment Co. on Wednesday set a date for shareholders to vote on whether to approve the company's proposed $2.4 billion sale to a New York private equity firm.
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OH: Dominion East Ohio gas auction sets new low-price record that will keep prices lower through March 2011
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Many people who get their gas through Dominion East Ohio gas company soon will pay less for it.
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OH: SBA loan data shows steep drop
From: feeds.stateline.org
"With the state struggling through the deep recession, small-business loans backed by the federal government declined sharply in Ohio from 2006 levels, an analysis by Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Lee Fisher shows.
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OK: Closing arguments set in Oklahoma pollution trial
From: feeds.stateline.org
"After a prolonged legal battle between the state of Oklahoma and the Arkansas poultry industry — closing arguments will be presented in Oklahoma's federal pollution lawsuit against the companies.
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OK: Group pushes tobacco-tax hike
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WASHINGTON — An anti-smoking coalition issued a report Wednesday pushing a tobacco tax increase of $1 per pack to help close Oklahoma's budget gap.
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OK: Both sides seek more time after HB 1804 decision
From: feeds.stateline.org
"DENVER - Both sides in the fight over employment provisions of Oklahoma's immigration control law want more time to decide whether to ask an appeals court to reconsider last week's decision.
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OK: Oklahoma Senate panel passes puppy mill bill
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Dubbed the "Commercial Pet Breeders Act," the measure would regulate dog and cat breeders with 11 or more adult females that can give birth.
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OR: Oregon exports fell sharply in 2009 -- except for sales to China
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Oregon exports slid precipitously last year as the global recession sapped economic activity and demand for the state's products.
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OR: Rally urges Legislature to pass jobs bills
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Union organizers were pleased — and disheartened — by a larger-than-expected turnout for a rally Wednesday at the Capitol.
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PA: Veon jury hears details of a legislative love life
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The intimate details of the sex life of a former legislative aide became fodder for the jury in a public corruption trial yesterday.
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PA: 2 attorneys picked to fill judge posts by Rendell
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Ed Rendell has nominated two attorneys to spots on the bench in a northeastern Pennsylvania county where three former judges have been charged with corruption in Luzerne County.
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PA: Museums anticipate losing state funding
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Pittsburgh museums, losing admissions money because of this week's snow, are likely to intensify lobbying for state money that Gov. Ed Rendell would cancel for the attractions in his proposed 2010-11 budget.
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PA: Tourism groups turn to texting, social networking
From: feeds.stateline.org
"When tourism officials wanted a low-cost way to promote Pennsylvania tourism after a 65 percent budget cut, they turned to Punxsutawney Phil and cell phone text messages.
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PA: Business leaders bristle at Pennsylvania tax plan
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Portions of Gov. Ed Rendell's proposed state budget for 2010-2011 that institute taxes on business services and goods were criticized Wednesday by companies and trade groups.
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PA: Scranton mayor considering run for state Senate seat
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Scranton Mayor Chris Doherty is considering a run for the state Senate as his chances of winning the Democratic nomination for governor appear all but officially over.
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RI: Municipalties could save millions
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Rhode Island cities and towns could save more than $67 million a year if state lawmakers approve a money-saving plan that would reduce spending on health care, pensions and other high-cost areas, a new report by the Rhode Island Public Expenditure Council concludes.
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SC: Senator blames fellow lawmakers
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State Sen. Jake Knotts on Wednesday laid blame for the failure at the Employment Security Commission and the state's soon-to-be $1 billion debt to the federal government squarely at the feet of the Legislature.
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SC: Point of sale tax bill fails in third reading
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Senate failed Wednesday to give final passage to a compromise bill aimed at lowering property tax increases on second homes, businesses, and other real estate commonly taxed at the 6 percent rate.
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SD: Working S. Dakotans going hungry
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A new report underscores how many South Dakotans are going hungry every day, including rising numbers of working poor in the state.
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SD: House agrees to scale back refunds for big projects
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The governor's plan to trim tax refunds for large business projects and agricultural processing plants passed its first big test Wednesday in the Legislature.
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TN: Rep. Curry Todd's bill would force midnight last call at Tennessee bars
From: feeds.stateline.org
"There would be a midnight curfew for crying in your beer at Tennessee honky tonks under a bill introduced in the Legislature.
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TN: Spent ammo's harm to environment is debated
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Lead in paint, gasoline and drinking water is prohibited as dangerous for health and the environment. But the material is scattered in abundance outdoors when it comes to hunting grounds and firing ranges. Tons of lead from ammunition can accumulate on the ground over years and decades.
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TX: Legislators eye sales tax exemptions for new money
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Texas legislators set out to find some spare change that might help plug the state budget hole they know awaits them next year. The sales tax exemptions for bottled water, Internet access, coin-operated machines and more were examined by the House Ways and Means Committee on Wednesday, but every exemption will be on the table in coming months, said state Rep. Rene Oliveira, the committee chairman.
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TX: Texas is urged to help expand solar power
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Texas "has what it takes to be a national leader in solar power," including ample sunshine, but it needs to embrace more ambitious policies and adopt new financial incentives to make it happen, according to a "Lone Star Power" report issued Wednesday by Environment Texas and the Go Solar Texas Coalition.
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TX: City sales tax revenue in Texas mixed in December
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Texas' economy continues to give off mixed economic signals. Municipal sales tax collections fell more than 6 percent in December, despite forecasts that the holiday shopping season might improve from a dismal 2008.
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UT: Utah Legislature -- State workers speak out on retirement change
From: feeds.stateline.org
"So many people wanted to testify Wednesday about a package of controversial bills aimed at solving a $6.5 billion shortfall in the state retirement system that another hearing will be held.
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UT: Bill would require landlords to pay for meth tests
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A bill that would require landlords to conduct methamphetamine testing if they have a reasonable hunch their units have been contaminated met with fierce opposition from Utah's Realtor and apartment associations.
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UT: Utah lawmakers propose using eminent domain to take federal land
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A pair of Utah County lawmakers want to pass legislation that would give the state eminent domain power to take federal lands, including a coal-rich parcel in the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument.
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UT: Lawmaker -- Budget woes mean in-state tuition goes
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A bill that would repeal in-state tuition for children of undocumented immigrants is making its sixth legislative appearance in seven years.
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VA: Va. Senate committee approves concealed-weapons legislation
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Virginia's drinking establishments soon may be open for business to a new clientele -- people carrying concealed weapons.
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WA: Now, can farm hang on to oyster harvesting?
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Water quality has improved enough in lower Henderson Inlet north of Lacey to allow unfettered harvesting of shellfish on 240 acres of tidelands that had been restricted since 2001, the state Department of Health announced Wednesday.
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WI: Marine Corps orders 400 heavy trucks from Oshkosh
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The U.S. Marine Corps has ordered more than 400 heavy trucks from the defense arm of Oshkosh Corp., in a deal worth over $158 million.
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WI: Drug developer to receive state venture fund loan
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A Milwaukee company that's developing drugs for schizophrenia and other central nervous system disorders will receive a $250,000 low-interest loan from the state, the Commerce Department announced Wednesday afternoon.
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WI: January home sales up 2.4% in four-county area
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Sales of existing homes in the four-county Milwaukee metro area rose 2.4% in January compared with the same month a year ago - a small increase that real estate professionals say shows the market still has a lot of room for recovery but at least is on the right track.
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WI: Assembly panel backs payday loan measure
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Assembly Majority Leader Thomas Nelson (D-Kaukauna) refused to say Wednesday whether he supports Speaker Mike Sheridan (D-Janesville), who last year softened his stance on regulating payday lenders and recently disclosed he had dated an industry lobbyist.
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WV: Lawmakers again try to regulate gas drilling
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A renewed push to drill for natural gas is pushing West Virginia lawmakers to consider new safeguards for property owners and the environment.
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WY: House rejects political spending bill
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State representatives on Wednesday voted down a proposal that would have erased state restrictions on independent political spending by corporations, labor unions and other groups.
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WY: Landowner, wildlife advocates see opportunity in wind energy regs
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Wyoming wildlife and landowner advocates have praised Gov. Dave Freudenthal's call for a one-year moratorium of eminent domain powers for companies wanting to build wind farm "collector" lines.
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WY: Wind company is wary of excise tax
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A California company is watching but not worrying that a proposed excise tax on wind power could affect a proposed 150-megawatt project in Campbell County, its project developer said Tuesday.
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Visit the Stateline.org Economy & Business Page
From: feeds.stateline.org
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Proactive tax planning to take advantage of timely tax saving opportunities.
Comprehensive business services that integrate income tax compliance
and planning with investments and insurance choices.
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increase wealth accumulation and retention.
Foreign investor tax services.
Individualized accounting system setup for new businesses.
State of the art payroll tax services and sales tax preparation.
Preparation of business and individual tax returns and financial
statements.
Budgeting and projection preparation and monitoring, facilitating the
creation and tracking of events.
Assistance in selection and installation of computer hardware and
software, ongoing monitoring and updating of systems.
