NV: Gibbons seems to be backsliding on pledge to not raise taxes
From: feeds.stateline.org
"For all his promises to not raise taxes — and he considers fees as taxes — Gov. Jim Gibbons seems to be proposing just that as a way to solve the state's budget crisis.
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NJ: With Gov. Chris Christie targeting benefits, some N.J. public workers consider retirement
From: feeds.stateline.org
"In firehouses and police stations, union halls and county offices, workers eligible to retire are asking each other the same question: Are you putting in your papers?
"
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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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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AK: Legislator wants tax holiday on new oil to spur development
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state would give companies a 10-year tax break on new oil under the latest proposal aimed at encouraging development in Alaska.
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AK: Funding for Pick-Click-Give at issue in Legislature
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The price tag for the Pick-Click-Give program, which allows Alaskans to donate to a portion of their Permanent Fund dividend to charities, is raising eyebrows in the state Legislature.
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AK: China seen as potential Alaska gas customer
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Alaska officials are looking to China and what some believe will be that country's strong demand for natural gas to help the state advance its long-held pipeline dreams.
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AK: State lawmakers, governor debate how to spend $1 billion
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State legislators are in negotiations with Gov. Sean Parnell as to how $1 billion in surplus state revenues will be spent.
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AK: State mulls wastewater limits
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Cruise lines should be able to comply with new, temporary rules for wastewater discharge limits, since the state dropped them to mirror results produced by cruise ships currently operating in the state.
"
AL: Alabama Senate delaying electronic bingo bill
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Proponents of electronic bingo casinos are playing a game of 21 in the Senate and losing so far.
Senate proponents had announced last week that they would bring up electronic bingo legislation for debate on Tuesday, and they predicted they would get the necessary support for passage, which is 21 of the 35 senators.
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AL: AG King to discuss gambling task force "activities"
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Alabama Attorney General Troy King will discuss the "activities of the governor's gambling task force" during a news conference scheduled for noon today.
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AL: Bingo machines found at American Legion post
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Amid the statewide uproar over the governor's bingo raids, Press-Register readers have called to the newspaper with tips about the presence of bingo machines at local bars, restaurants and clubs.
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AL: District Attorneys Association opposes changes to Gov. Riley's powers
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Alabama District Attorneys Association is siding with Gov. Bob Riley in opposition to a bill designed to put a halt to the bingo hall raids conducted by the Governor's Task Force on Illegal Gambling, reports The Gadsden Times.
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AL: Debate rages on whether Alabama wins or loses by ending bingo
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Ashleigh Perez had looked for work for six months. She finally found it, although it meant driving an hour and 10 minutes from Shorterville to work as a server at John Anderson's Cafeteria at Country Crossing, near Dothan.
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AZ: Orange Coalition, Gray seek restrictions on eminent domain
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A group of Arizonans who call themselves the "Orange Coalition" are behind three measures that would bolster individual property rights and secure state control of water within its borders.
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AZ: Senate panel OKs bill to restrict 'balloon loans'
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A Senate panel has approved a bill to protect home buyers from loans that could come back to hurt them.
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AZ: Ariz. lawmakers back off grab of traveler's checks
From: feeds.stateline.org
"At the behest of one of its biggest private employers, Arizona is backing away from a budget-balancing move that lets the state seize and spend money from traveler's checks that remain uncashed for three years.
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AZ: Cost of Ariz. tax proposal put at $800M by 2012
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A new report says a legislative proposal for phased-in general tax cuts and business tax breaks for creating jobs would cost the state $942 million in lost revenue once fully implemented seven years from now.
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AZ: Home pain -- Values fall while taxes might rise
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Most Maricopa County homeowners will see another significant decline in their homes' value when they open their 2011 property-assessment notices in the next few days. But property taxes for the coming year still may go up as the state, cities and school districts struggle to close huge budget deficits.
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AZ: Arizonans not ready to buy appliances, autos
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Arizona consumers still aren't in the mood to buy the big-ticket appliances and motor vehicles that provide the higher sales-tax revenues governments need, according to a recent Rocky Mountain Poll.
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AZ: Property-rights bills get OK
From: feeds.stateline.org
"As supporters rallied on the lawn, lawmakers on Monday voted to advance measures to increase property rights at the expense of the government's ability to take land.
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CA: CalPERS to extend contract of financial firm accused of fraud
From: feeds.stateline.org
"CalPERS plans to extend a management contract with financial services giant State Street Corp., the same firm accused in a lawsuit of defrauding CalPERS and CalSTRS.
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CA: Democrats' budget plan advances in Senate
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Senate Budget Committee on Tuesday approved rollbacks of two corporate tax breaks as part of a complex gas-tax swap to help close the state's $19.9 billion deficit.
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CA: In California, Exhibit A in debate on insurance
From: feeds.stateline.org
"LOS ANGELES — When Bernhard Punzet opened the dreaded envelope from Anthem Blue Cross one recent Saturday, it ruined his weekend.
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CA: California lawmakers revive forced withholding proposal
From: feeds.stateline.org
"When it comes to balancing the state budget, no idea ever wears out its welcome. That explains why lawmakers are currently pondering a list of revenue raising proposals that bit the dust just last year.
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CA: L.A. looks to rein in rapid spread of marijuana dispensaries
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Los Angeles' battle to govern its medical marijuana industry offers cautionary lessons for other California cities grappling, in widely conflicting ways, with burgeoning pot sales and piqued legal arguments over the hazy rules of the trade.
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CA: New beach hours at Dana Point development alarm users
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The California Coastal Commission is investigating the gates and hours of operation to determine whether they violate the development permit or state law, which requires the maximization of hours of use for public beach access and recreation.
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CA: Pending closure of Toyota plant in California protested
From: feeds.stateline.org
"National labor union officials, community leaders and politicians stepped up their efforts to pressure embattled Toyota Motor Corp. to reverse its decision to stop making cars in Northern California.
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CA: Battle heats up over auto insurer's initiative on California's June ballot
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Proposition 17 would rewrite state law to allow insurers to attract new customers with discounts, as long as the drivers have been insured for most of the previous five years. But in the zero-sum world of insurance, one driver's discount must be offset by another driver's surcharge.
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CO: Tax, budget plan sent to Ritter
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Lawmakers sent a package of bills to Gov. Bill Ritter on Tuesday that would allow taxes to be collected on candy, soda, software, online sales and other items.
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CO: Colorado casinos hoping to lose less at blackjack
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The house usually wins. Now it wants to shell out less when it loses.
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CO: Medical-pot advocacy group pushes for compromise at Capitol
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The medical-marijuana dispensary owners who gathered last week for a regular meeting of the group Coloradans for Medical Marijuana Regulation were anxious about rules lawmakers are considering for the booming industry.
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CO: Medical-pot advocacy group pushes for compromise at Capitol
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The medical-marijuana dispensary owners who gathered last week for a regular meeting of the group Coloradans for Medical Marijuana Regulation were anxious about rules lawmakers are considering for the booming industry.
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CO: Validity of Bartkowicz pot bust to undergo first review
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Colorado's medical marijuana chronicles went federal this weekend when the state's top drug cop, DEA special agent Jeff Sweetin, seemed to directly defy the Attorney General and the Obama administration by raiding a Highlands Ranch home a day after owner Chris Bartkowicz spoke to KUSA-TV 9News about his major basement marijuana grow operation.
"
CT: Countrywide sends consumers checks for "abusive and unfair" practices
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Countrywide Financial Corp. has mailed checks for more than $3,000 to hundreds of Connecticut residents who lost or could lose their homes as a result of the company's "abusive and unfair" home loan practices, Attorney General Richard Blumenthal said Monday.
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CT: Blumenthal proposes commission to review condo owners' complaints
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Condominium owners who can't resolve disputes with leaders of their associations would have another recourse under a proposal introduced Tuesday by the state's attorney general.
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CT: Team set to investigate power plant explosion in Middletown
From: feeds.stateline.org
"NEW BRITAIN, Conn. -- A half-dozen state agencies have been assembled to investigate the deadly Feb. 7 blast at the Kleen Energy power plant, but none had overall inspection or oversight responsibility at the $1 billion Middletown facility.
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CT: Shaw's selling all 18 supermarkets in state; most to Stop & Shop, ShopRite
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Shaw's Supermarkets is pushing its shopping cart out of Connecticut, squeezed out by a growing number of aggressive competitors.
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DE: Markell keeps promise, goes to Europe
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Jack Markell returned Friday from an economic development jaunt to Europe, where he met with business leaders in Germany and England to try to convince them to do business in Delaware.
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DE: Delaware River dredging concerns run deep
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Art Meding's family has fished Delaware's river and bays for generations. They know where shark and big fish called drum are abundant and where fragile underwater clusters of sand worm tubes -- called coral beds locally -- once ran for miles.
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FL: Environmental report could spur debate on plastic-bag ban
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A much-anticipated report from state environmental regulators may spur Florida lawmakers to consider a ban on plastic retail bags.
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FL: Daytona International Speedway begins investigation of pothole
From: feeds.stateline.org
"DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. -- A lone security guard sat on an orange and black vehicle in front of the pothole that held hostage the 52nd running of the Daytona 500.
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FL: SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket launch will be test of commercial space business
From: feeds.stateline.org
"CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. — Sometime next month, if all goes well, a 154-foot-tall white rocket will rise from a launchpad at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in a crucial test of the ambitions of upstart space company SpaceX —- and of President Barack Obama's new policy for NASA.
"
FL: Bill to reform PSC ethics earns quick endorsement
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A bill to raise ethical standards at the Public Service Commission sailed through the Senate Rules Committee on Tuesday, clearing the way for Senate floor debate as early as the first week of the 2010 session next month.
"
FL: Floridians pay for vacant state jobs
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Florida's state government workforce now includes about 5,500 positions that have been vacant for at least a month – jobs that Floridians pay to keep open even as legislators hit them with billions in fee and tax increases.
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FL: State settles with Countrywide for $17 million
From: feeds.stateline.org
"More than 2,700 Florida homeowners can look for a nice-sized check in their mailboxes this week.
"
FL: Obama's budget reshapes the U.S. space agenda
From: feeds.stateline.org
"With the release of his fiscal year 2011 budget, President Barack Obama dramatically broke with recent space policy -- and in so doing, he broke one of his campaign promises, while keeping five others.
"
GA: Judge hears Morris bankruptcy plan
From: feeds.stateline.org
"AUGUSTA, Ga. -- Georgia-based newspaper owner Morris Publishing is due back in U.S. Bankruptcy Court, where a judge will consider the company's plan to emerge from Chapter 11 protection by slashing $288.5 million from its debt.
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GA: State Senate fast-tracks telecom reform
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A compromise aimed at ending a war waged within Georgia's telecommunications industry over reform legislation has sailed through the state Senate with the 2010 session just a month old.
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GA: Senate creates economic development council
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Senate overwhelmingly passed a bill Tuesday afternoon that would create an economic development council of state lawmakers to evaluate all state-funded activities that support Georgia's economic development strategy.
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GA: Obama to visit Savannah next month
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WASHINGTON -- President Barack Obama has selected Savannah as the next stop on his "White House to Main Street" tour to talk about jobs and the economy with local residents and business people.
"
GA: Legislators push to collect taxes
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Some Georgia lawmakers say if the state were collecting all the taxes it is due, they wouldn't have had to vote last week for $1.2 billion in budget cuts for the current year.
"
GA: Obama to announce Georgia nuke loan guarantees today
From: feeds.stateline.org
"President Barack Obama today will announce the loan guarantees for the construction and operation of two new nuclear reactors in Georgia, the first new nuclear power plant to break ground in the United States for nearly three decades.
"
HI: Hit on gov hurts rail, Abercrombie says
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Mayor Mufi Hannemann's personal attacks on Gov. Linda Lingle are hurting the city's plans for rail transit, according to rail supporter and candidate for governor U.S. Rep. Neil Abercrombie.
"
HI: Libraries cope with staff cuts, sporadic closures
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A hiring freeze and a 20 percent budget cut are the chief challenges facing the Hawai'i State Public Library in the economic downturn, and now the system is so lean that often there's not enough staff to keep a library open.
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HI: Audit -- RightStar short $22.6M
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Five years after accusing former Gov. John Waihee and others of illegally diverting tens of millions of dollars from funeral home trust accounts, the state attorney general is poised to try to collect the money.
"
IA: Statewide home sales down in January
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The average sale price of a home in Iowa last month was just over $132,500. Iowa Association of Realtors President Carey Jensen says the average sale price figure has remained fairly low for the past year – primarily because of an influx of real estate owned (REO) or bank-owned foreclosure listings into the market.
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IA: Beef producers worry about snow, economy
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Cattle prices have risen modestly in the last month and feed costs are down. With some luck, the U.S. economy will improve enough this year to enable Americans to splurge occasionally on a steak dinner.
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IA: Keokuk pollution fine set at $1 million
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Roquette America Inc. has agreed to pay a $1 million fine for air-quality infractions at its Keokuk corn-processing plant, tying the biggest air-pollution penalty in Iowa history.
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IA: Dozens sign up to speak at hearing on 'fair share'
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Iowa lawmakers today will conduct a public hearing on a controversial labor bill that would allow unions representing executive branch employees to charge nonunion workers fees for services.
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IA: Culver to Congress -- Extend jobless benefits
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Chet Culver on Monday urged Congress to act quickly to extend federal unemployment benefits so 76,000 idled Iowa workers and their families don't lose needed assistance beginning Feb. 28.
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IA: Little I-JOBS money at work
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Chet Culver's economic recovery I-JOBS program is off to a slow start, with only $20.7 million - or about 3.5 percent - spent from $596.5 million awarded over the past eight months for roads, bridges, community centers and other projects.
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IA: GOP doubts need for workplace bill
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Iowa's business climate became a heated topic of debate Monday as the Iowa Senate approved a bill that would require employers to notify employees about policies affecting vacation pay, sick leave, severance pay, retirement plans and other benefits.
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IA: Tax credit's recipients made public for first time
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Iowans got their first peek Monday at some of the businesses that receive a controversial tax credit from a program that some groups say delivers "secret checks."
"
ID: ID lawmaker wants to make snagging roadkill legal
From: feeds.stateline.org
"An Idaho lawmaker wants to make it legal to snatch up roadkill, saying letting a dead animal rot on the highway doesn't make sense if someone can make a few hundred dollars off it.
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ID: Idaho Land Board ponders fate of cabin sites
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Idaho Land Board will consider selling or trading 521 state-owned lots at Payette and Priest lakes as a long-term solution to a problem that has vexed policy makers for decades.
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ID: State puts brakes on new mental health facility
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Top Idaho prison officials say they are putting the brakes on plans to break ground on a $50 million mental health facility until some questions can be answered about staffing and operations.
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ID: Lawmakers to consider rainy day fund for colleges
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Lawmakers will consider the creation of a rainy day account for colleges, similar to the fund lawmakers set aside several years ago for K-12 public school system.
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ID: Bedke proposes rainy day fund for higher ed
From: feeds.stateline.org
"House Assistant Majority Leader Scott Bedke, R-Oakley, introduced a legislative proposal on Monday aimed at creating a rainy day fund for higher education.
"
ID: Bill would lift limits on charter schools
From: feeds.stateline.org
"An Idaho lawmaker wants to change the state law limiting the number of new charter schools to six each year, making exceptions for petitions targeted at underserved students.
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ID: Proposal aims scholarships at early graduates
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Idaho high school students who graduate early would be eligible for new scholarships to Idaho's public colleges and universities, under a legislative proposal heard Monday in the House Education Committee.
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IL: Proposed fees on farmers to benefit state ag department
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A House panel voted to raise fees dealing with pesticides, livestock and other areas in order to get $2 million for the state's ailing agriculture budget.
"
IL: Coal industry poised for rebound
From: feeds.stateline.org
"MOUNT VERNON, Ill. -- With four coal mines under construction and another seven with permits to build pending, the Illinois coal industry is poised for a rebound.
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IL: Schock -- Don't ignore importance of healthy rivers
From: feeds.stateline.org
"PEORIA, Ill. -- Odds are good that the Illinois River will flood this spring - but about the same as usual. Odds are better that the Mississippi River will flood - and higher than usual.
"
IL: Cat says resolve on clean air hasn't wavered
From: feeds.stateline.org
"PEORIA, Ill. -- Caterpillar Inc.'s decision to withdraw from a clean air coalition does not signal any change in the company's commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, the company said Tuesday.
"
IL: Simon makes $10B offer for General Growth
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Simon Property Group Inc., the nation's largest mall operator, offered to buy Chicago-based General Growth Properties Inc. out of Chapter 11 for more than $10 billion in a deal that would give shareholders -- typically left empty handed in bankruptcy reorganization -- $9 a share.
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IL: Washington, 3 other states want to get out of the liquor business
From: feeds.stateline.org
"CHICAGO -- With their finances on the rocks, states that control the sale of liquor to the public are looking at handing the job to private enterprise, a move that could raise revenue, streamline government, and prove a boon to the spirits industry.
"
IL: Asian-carp threat stirs rethink of century-old feat
From: feeds.stateline.org
"CHICAGO — More than a century ago, this city reversed the flow of its eponymous river, connecting the Great Lakes with the Gulf of Mexico and defining itself as the can-do capital of the American heartland.
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IL: Asian carp proposal isn't pleasing many
From: feeds.stateline.org
"CHICAGO -- In the wake of a three-hour public hearing Friday on the federal government's new plan to keep Asian carp from colonizing Lake Michigan, one thing is clear - nobody is thrilled with it.
"
IL: Lawmakers promote energy efficiency
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Illinois consumers would have added incentives to purchase energy-efficient products in their local stores under two pieces of legislation pending in the House and Senate.
"
IL: Federal job training money headed to Illinois
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Illinois is to receive more than $8 million in federal money for job training initiatives.
"
IN: State -- We can police insurance rate hikes
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Indiana's Department of Insurance on Friday said it is confident that it has the regulatory process necessary to make sure the premium increases faced by those with individual health-insurance plans are justified.
"
IN: WellPoint directors make big gains on stocks
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Three WellPoint board members have collected a combined $625,517 in gains from stock options in the Indianapolis-based health insurance giant as the company has faced national media scrutiny and barbs from the Obama administration over premium increases.
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IN: Simon offers $10B for General Growth Properties
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The nation's top mall owner, Simon Property Group has made a written offer of $10 billion to acquire General Growth Properties Inc., the nation's second largest mall owner.
"
KS: State committee considering applying sales tax to residential utility bills
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A Kansas House committee has been asked to reject a plan to impose the state's sales tax on residential utility bills.
"
KS: State's fiscal woes cause worry among Kansans with disabilities
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Terry Walter is diabetic and uses a wheelchair. A stroke left the 59-year-old Topeka man occasionally confused and sometimes forgetful.
"
KS: Higher ed leaders told to collaborate more
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The leaders of Kansas' largest universities on Monday asked legislators to stop any further cuts to higher education, saying more reductions will produce long-term damage to the institutions and harm the state's economic recovery.
"
KS: Midpoint nears in 2010 legislative session
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Kansas legislators are approaching the first major deadline of the 2010 session with many of the major issues still unresolved.
"
KS: Federal stimulus funds to aid state health records
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WASHINGTON — The Obama administration on Friday announced more than $975 million in grants to help states, doctors and hospitals move from paper to computerized record keeping.
"
KS: Kansas Senate endorses bill that would allow police to seize assets of human traffickers
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Kansas lawmakers voted Monday to give police new tools to fight human trafficking.
"
KY: Top legislators shun Beshear's plea for gambling bill
From: feeds.stateline.org
"There's unlikely to be money for raises for teachers or state workers, but the General Assembly's top two leaders said Friday that they can pass a state budget without revenue from expanded gambling.
"
KY: Oversight of more contracts sought
From: feeds.stateline.org
"After receiving complaints from local school officials about a state-mandated change in education software, Rep. Brad Montell promised to scrutinize the contract as a member of the legislature's Government Contract Review Committee.
"
LA: New Orleans' best-known party kicks off
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Laissez les bon temps rouler – encore. Just a week after celebrating a Louisiana first – a Saints win in the Super Bowl – New Orleans kicks off its oldest and best-known party this morning, Mardi Gras, with a string of parades as glittery as a beaded necklace.
"
MA: When stints on payroll hurt the jobless
From: feeds.stateline.org
"After nearly a year without work, Gary LaPlante was happy to take a three-week construction job. What he didn't know was that the job would cost him more than two-thirds of his benefits when he went back on unemployment.
"
MA: Robert DeLeo -- Film tax credit plays role in job growth
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Massachusetts House Speaker Robert DeLeo said it may not be the right time to edit the film-industry tax credit.
"
MA: Lawmakers say no more homeless families in hotels
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WEST SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — Two lawmakers from western Massachusetts want state welfare officials to stop housing homeless families in hotels and motels.
"
MA: Deval Patrick seeks toll czar for Pike upgrade
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Deval Patrick - who just days ago insisted his plan to install electronic tolling on the Pike was preliminary - has hit the gas on the proposal and is conducting an under-the-radar search for a big wheel to steer the high-speed drive-through system.
"
MA: A port in stormy times
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Now, with jobs scarce and the recession taking its toll, more city residents have traded terra firma for bobbing real estate.
"
MD: Pushing nuclear power
From: feeds.stateline.org
"President Barack Obama visited suburban Maryland on Tuesday to make a pitch for a new generation of nuclear power and announce loan guarantees for the first new U.S. nuclear plant in decades.
"
MD: Foreclosure changes urged
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Martin O'Malley and Rep. Elijah E. Cummings urged Maryland lawmakers Tuesday to adopt a proposal that would require mortgage companies to prove they tried to modify a borrower's loan before filing for foreclosure. The measure would also force companies into court mediation with homeowners who believe they have been wrongly denied relief.
"
MD: Baltimore real estate asking-price reductions
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Real estate search engine Trulia, which tracks how many homes listed for sale have had at least one price reduction, said this morning that Baltimore continues to have a high share. Higher, in fact, than all but four other big cities. Thirty-one percent of listings in Baltimore are on the market for less than their original asking price.
"
MD: The road to recovery hits some big snags
From: feeds.stateline.org
"As the day dawns for those contemplating a commute into Baltimore, there's good news: It should be better than Tuesday's slow crawl. The bad news? Maybe not by much.
"
MD: Federal training facility brews Queen Anne's brouhaha
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WASHINGTON - What started as an effort to create jobs in Queen Anne's County and increase national security has devolved into months of finger pointing, heated Facebook posts, dozens of furious letters, boycotts and a lot of extremely unhappy people.
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MD: O'Malley to argue for mediation bill
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Martin O'Malley will put the force of his office today behind a plan that would enable struggling homeowners to negotiate better mortgage terms before banks can take their houses.
"
ME: Maine officials laud federal stimulus money
From: feeds.stateline.org
"One year ago, President Barack Obama signed the $787 billion American Recovery and Reinvestment Act into law. Since then, federal stimulus has had a drastic effect on the health of the Maine economy, according to officials and observers.
"
ME: Lawmakers eye tobacco tax hike
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Public health advocates and some Maine lawmakers are supporting a proposed $1 state tax increase on a pack of cigarettes.
"
ME: Maine Native Seth Wescott Wins Gold In Snowboardcross
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WEST VANCOUVER, British Columbia -- American Seth Wescott defended his Olympic title Monday, overtaking Canada's Mike Robertson to win the gold medal in the wild sport of men's snowboard cross. Wescott, of Carrabassett Valley, Maine, struggled in qualifying and was seeded 17th out of the 32 riders, but he emerged with his second gold medal — and America's second of the Winter Olympics.
"
ME: Gaming tables gain support
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Penobscot County commissioners voted unanimously Tuesday to sign on to a letter addressed to a legislative committee from the Bangor City Council expressing support for allowing Hollywood Slots to add gaming tables at its Main Street facility.
"
ME: Bill would change bottle law enforcement
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Lawmakers will consider emergency legislation this session to crack down on companies not complying with Maine's bottle deposit law, a move that could generate millions of dollars for the state treasury.
"
ME: Fraser execs got bonuses as company sought bankruptcy
From: feeds.stateline.org
"MADAWASKA, Maine — As Fraser Papers Inc. stock tumbled in 2008 and losses culminated with Fraser seeking bankruptcy protection in mid-2009, its six top-level executives received $50,000 to $162,500 in bonuses, the company's spring 2009 report to stockholders revealed.
"
MI: U.S. needs to value manufacturing base, then rebuild it, Bill Ford says
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Bill Ford Jr., executive chairman of the Ford Motor Co., told a luncheon crowd of more than 400 at Laurel Manor & Banquet Hall in Livonia that a healthy manufacturing base is vital to the strength of metro Detroit and the U.S. economy.
"
MI: Lansing area strong despite tough times
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Mid-Michigan may be combating double-digit unemployment. We might be languishing in a years-long foreclosure crisis. And perhaps we don't have the best weather in the world.
"
MI: Offshore wind farm developer scaling back plans
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WEST MICHIGAN, Mich. -- Norwegian developers are in the process of cutting their proposed Lake Michigan Aegir Offshore Wind Farm in half and moving it further from the Silver Lake State Park shoreline.
"
MI: Michigan's economy may cloud President Barack Obama's spring commencement address at University of Michigan
From: feeds.stateline.org
"When President Barack Obama steps to the podium May 1 to deliver the spring commencement address at the University of Michigan, he'll peer out over a crowd of 3,500 graduates. Half of them will leave Michigan.
"
MI: Asian carp clamor -- Don't close our locks, Chicago businesspeople say
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Illinois boatyard owners, cruise operators, bait shop owners and barge operators at a public meeting about the Asian carp threat said today they oppose any lock closures near Chicago.
"
MI: State sees rise in new builds, but figures still down
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Michigan home builders could find themselves busier this year as new home construction picks up.
"
MN: Minnesota House approves $1 billion public works proposal
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Hours after Gov. Tim Pawlenty proposed cutting state spending by $825 million to balance the state budget, the Minnesota House voted Monday night to borrow more than $1 billion to finance public works projects.
"
MO: Mo. senators debate lower minimum wage for teens
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Missouri lawmakers are considering lowering the state's minimum wage - but only for teenagers.
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MO: Mo. treasurer announces low-interest loans
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State Treasurer Clint Zweifel (ZWY'-ful) has announced more than $36 million in low-interest loans to small businesses in northeast Missouri.
"
MO: Democrats put Missouri's Kit Bond in 'Hypocrisy Hall of Fame' for stance on stimulus
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The $787 billion stimulus bill may have been signed into law a year ago today, but the political fistfight over its effectiveness isn't over.
"
MO: Desire to keep Ford's Claycomo plant drives Missouri House to support new tax incentives
From: feeds.stateline.org
"In an attempt to stave off competition from other job-hungry states, the Missouri House on Tuesday endorsed new tax breaks Tuesday that would reward manufacturers for making factory improvements.
"
MO: Tentative cuts made in Missouri's social services budget
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A Missouri House committee slashed nearly $60 million from social-service programs in next year's budget, including funding for health clinics, child care subsidies and assistance to victims of domestic violence.
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MO: Benefits at issue in survey
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Employees across the four-campus University of Missouri System are being asked what they value most about their salary and benefits packages.
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MO: Ashland joins list of schools seeking cuts
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Southern Boone County school district could slash almost $400,000 from its budget in the next few weeks, another example of Missouri schools cutting back because of shortfalls in local and state revenue.
"
MO: Toy maker gets praise from Nixon
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Columbia cabinetmaker Chris Heston was in the middle of a father-son bonding experience when he hit on an idea for a new business.
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MO: Missouri lawmakers look at changes in Second Injury Fund
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A bill to stave off bankruptcy in a state fund for injured workers was considered by Missouri House lawmakers on Monday.
"
MO: Mo. considers restrictions on injured worker fund
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A Missouri House committee is considering legislation designed to stabilize a financially troubled state fund for injured workers by triggering higher workers' compensation premiums for employers.
"
MO: Mo. senator stalls business tax incentive plan
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A Missouri state senator has made it known that new tax incentives for businesses won't clear the Legislature very easily this year.
"
MS: Cold meds -- Authorities split on law
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The new Mississippi law requiring a prescription to purchase some over-the-counter cold medications is receiving mixed reactions from law enforcement officers.
"
MS: Bill to restructure deer season advances to Senate
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The House recently passed HB 1282, 86-30, which would restructure future deer seasons in Mississippi. Discussion focused on the bill's effect on private vs. public lands, youth season and archery hunters.
"
MT: Cap-and-trade legislation -- Deep divide in Montana on next big policy issue
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Montana's U.S. senators are preparing to dive in on another big national issue — climate change and energy legislation — but it appears they're facing a divided state electorate on the subject.
"
MT: Fixes on state-owned Toyotas almost complete
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Montana Department of Transportation said Toyota is quickly repairing the state's fleet of Prius hybrid cars that have been recalled for braking issues, work expected to be done this week.
"
MT: Montana student loan default rate 1 percent
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Montana Guaranteed Student Loan Program is reporting a preliminary default rate of 1 percent in fiscal year 2008 for the early months of student loan repayment.
"
MT: Livingston spends $21K in federal stimulus money on tennis courts
From: feeds.stateline.org
"BOZEMAN, Mont. -- Livingston city officials say the city spent over $21,000 in federal economic stimulus money to resurface its tennis courts last summer.
"
NC: Smokers may grumble, but they obey the ban
From: feeds.stateline.org
"As much as smokers and some business owners have complained about the law, nearly all of them comply with it.
"
NC: Cherokees bet big on resort
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Now, even as its gambling business is wilting, the tribe is investing $633 million in the idea that it can transform the state's only casino into something even more profitable: a classy resort where visitors can not only gamble, but golf, visit a spa and shop.
"
ND: Hoeven, local officials hopeful to expand GFK's flights
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Minot International Airport will soon have two daily United Airlines flights to Denver, officials announced Monday, just days after reporting the airport will also get direct flights to Salt Lake City from Delta Air Lines.
"
ND: State of satisfaction -- North Dakotans lead in satisfaction with standard of living
From: feeds.stateline.org
"North Dakotans lead the nation in satisfaction with their standard of living, a new Gallup poll shows. Minnesotans ranked fourth.
"
NE: More food stamps at Nebraska farmers' markets?
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Cash and checks may not be the only payment methods accepted at farmers' markets in Nebraska.
"
NE: Farm, ranch numbers dropped again in 2009
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Net farm income hit record levels in the state in 2008, but the number of farms and ranches in Nebraska fell again in 2009, according to numbers released Friday by the National Agricultural Statistics Service.
"
NJ: Doherty could be dropping out of governor's race
From: feeds.stateline.org
"It looks as if Democrat Chris Doherty might be getting out of the governor's race.
"
NJ: NJ Transit union leader warns of fare hikes of up to 30 percent, service cuts, employee furloughs
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A bombshell letter from a NJ Transit union head to members warns of fare hikes of up to 30 percent, cuts in service and possible employee furloughs.
"
NJ: N.J. affordable after-school centers are threatened by Gov. Christie's budget cuts
From: feeds.stateline.org
"VERNON, N.J. -- When Caroline Hicks of Vernon was looking for affordable after-school care for her two daughters, she was thrilled to find a program at her local elementary schools.
"
NJ: With an eye on snow budgets, North Jersey towns keeping fingers crossed
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Officials across North Jersey were keeping one eye on the calendar and another on their depleted snow budgets Tuesday after the latest storm dumped more snow than anticipated.
"
NJ: Budget panel holding hearing today on NJ aid cuts to schools, colleges and hospitals
From: feeds.stateline.org
"New Jersey Democrats who say Republican Gov. Chris Christie should not make midyear budget cuts without legislative approval have scheduled a public hearing.
"
NJ: New Jersey restaurants cooking up pollution along with pizza, hamburgers
From: feeds.stateline.org
"When fast-food restaurants cook up cholesterol-heavy foods, they spew cholesterol and other particulates into the air, pollution that can affect the health of people with asthma and other breathing issues, researchers say.
"
NJ: Environmental groups turn to National Park Service to block N.J. $750M power line project
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Having lost their bid to get the state Board of Public Utilities to reject a major North Jersey power line project, opponents of the Susquehanna-Roseland line are turning their sights this week to the National Park Service.
"
NJ: N.J. freeholder boards withhold dues from Association of Counties over agency's spending
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Some freeholder boards across the state are withholding dues to the state Association of Counties, concerned about "excessive'' pay and benefits to its executive director and staff, plus a lack of accountability about spending of agency funds.
"
NJ: N.J. business embraced; others brace
From: feeds.stateline.org
"True to promise, in his first few weeks on the job, Gov. Christie has tilted the playing field in favor of business in New Jersey.
"
NJ: Assembly Democrats to parse Christie cuts
From: feeds.stateline.org
"There will be less money for summer programs for blind children.
"
NM: Campaign money bill hits snag
From: feeds.stateline.org
"With time running out for this Legislature, a bill that would prohibit campaign contributions from lobbyists and state contractors hit a bump Monday in the House of Representatives.
"
NM: Some Block charges axed; AG to appeal
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A state district judge on Monday dismissed half the criminal charges against state Public Regulation Commissioner Jerome Block Jr. and his father, Jerome Block Sr., ruling that the New Mexico Attorney General's Office overstepped its authority.
"
NM: Senate passes $5.276 billion spending plan
From: feeds.stateline.org
"New Mexico would tax food for the first time in years, add $1 to the state cigarette tax and net taxes from out-of-state owners of business partnerships on income earned here.
"
NM: House passes competing SIC reform bill
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The House passed its own stab at reforming the State Investment Council (SIC) Sunday.
"
NM: Senate passes double dipping legislation
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The vast majority of government retirees couldn't "double dip" after July 1 under a bill the Senate passed Monday.
"
NM: NM gaming revenue rose in 2008, but '09 likely to show decrease
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gaming revenue in New Mexico increased by $15 million or 4.27 percent in 2008, according to a just-published gaming almanac — but when 2009's figures are finalized, they will most likely show a dropoff.
"
NV: Would closing state parks to save money do more harm than good?
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Nevada Legislature is thinking of closing state parks as it considers how to patch an estimated $900 million budget gap, a move that would save a few million dollars while killing the economies of rural towns and stunting tourism efforts across the state, opponents of the idea say.
"
NV: Special session politics might be at play in 'Race to the Top' approach
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Although qualifying Nevada for the "Race to the Top" education initiative doesn't appear on the governor's preliminary agenda for next week's special session, a spokesman for Jim Gibbons said Tuesday that making Nevada eligible for as much as $175 million in federal education funding remains a priority.
"
NV: Survey finds Nevadans in a sad state
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A new study has found Nevadans are in a sad state — literally.
"
NV: Politicians face no-win situation as they tackle state budget
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Imagine a game in which there are no winners. Scrabble without vowels. All chutes, no ladders.
"
NV: State budget crisis -- Gibbons calls for special session, releases budget-cut plans
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Jim Gibbons brought to the table two ideas for generating $80 million in new revenue when he called on Tuesday a Feb. 23 special session of the Legislature to deal with an $887 million shortfall.
"
NV: State budget woes -- Four-day work week for state workers a possibility in budget cuts
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A four-day workweek and a reduction of state agency spending by 10 percent are two of the ways Gov. Jim Gibbons wants to cut spending by $871 million and balance state government's budget.
"
NV: Widow of former state senator outraged over Sue Lowden's ad
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Former colleagues of a longtime state senator are criticizing Republican U.S. Senate candidate Sue Lowden over her latest campaign ad, which references her 1992 campaign to unseat the late John "Jack" Vergiels.
"
NY: New York may hold back tax refunds
From: feeds.stateline.org
"If New Yorkers aren't already paying enough taxes, here's another one: The cash-strapped state is considering a delay next month in state income-tax refunds.
"
NY: Sugary drink tax shakes up reactions in Rochester-area soda aisles
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A tax on sugary drinks is far from certain, but Shana Feissner of Chili already is ready to dig deeper into her pocket.
"
NY: Espada bill would freeze stablized rents in NYC
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A Senate bill being introduced would freeze the rent for low- and moderate-income households in rent-subsidized apartments in New York City.
"
NY: Shedding light on racino bidding
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. David Paterson attempted to dispel some of the bad odor surrounding the recent selection of Aqueduct Entertainment Group as the winner in the Aqueduct VLT competition by releasing hundreds of pages of documents submitted by the final five bidders.
"
NY: Links between charity and state senator's staff
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Four current or former officials of a Queens nonprofit group or a related charity founded by State Senator Malcolm A. Smith and Congressman Gregory W. Meeks — a group to which Mr. Smith has directed some $56,000 in state funds — have spent some time on the Senate payroll working for Mr. Smith, and two were among his highest paid staff members, public records show.
"
NY: Gov child-care plan gives union its dues
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The United Federation of Teachers could reap a multimillion-dollar windfall if lawmakers approve a little-noticed provision in Gov. Paterson's budget that would force day-care workers to pay union dues.
"
NY: Budget a bane to drug trials?
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Of all the clinical trials for new drugs conducted nationwide, nearly a quarter take place in hospitals in New York state, according to the state's biotechnology association. But the group warns that budget legislation could make the state a less attractive place to conduct those trials.
"
NY: Appliance swap at $4M in four days
From: feeds.stateline.org
"New York energy officials say about 30,000 people around the state have claimed rebates in the first four days of the state's Great Appliance Swap Out. The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority said Monday that residents had claimed about $4 million in rebates.
"
OH: American Greetings in talks with Brooklyn over proposed move
From: feeds.stateline.org
"BROOKLYN, Ohio -- Brooklyn city officials met quietly with American Greetings Corp. executives on Tuesday to talk about how to keep the company from leaving Brooklyn.
"
OH: Customers sue FirstEnergy Corp. over increase in rates for electric heating
From: feeds.stateline.org
"FirstEnergy Corp. not only broke the budgets of 100,000 customers, it broke a contract when it suddenly raised rates for people who heat with electricity, a lawsuit claims.
"
OH: Geauga and Medina are among the top 10 healthiest counties in Ohio, report says
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Chances are you'll find the healthiest people in places where residents are more educated, where fresh produce is available, where people have access to more physicians and quality hospitals, and where the air is less polluted.
"
OH: Ohio AG goes after firms for selling legal trusts to elderly
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state Attorney General is trying to collect a record judgment of $6.4 million from two California-based companies, accused of selling overpriced legal trust plans and annuities to 8,000 Ohio senior citizens.
"
OH: Condo associations backing 'superlien' bill in Ohio House as way to collect fees after foreclosure
From: feeds.stateline.org
"AURORA, Ohio -- In the past three years, the Meadows of Aurora cluster-home development has experienced four foreclosures. Two more are under way, and a third foreclosure effort is likely to start soon.
"
OH: Youngstown area to get 350 more jobs when new steel tube plant opens
From: feeds.stateline.org
"YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio -- Vallourec SA, a large European steel company, said Monday that it plans to invest $650 million into its Youngstown operation, bringing 350 high-paying manufacturing jobs to the city.
"
OH: Warning -- BBB says scam uses its name
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Better Business Bureau doesn't run a lottery or hand out cash prizes. But some unsuspecting consumers have fallen falling prey to a lottery-themed scam that invokes the names of the consumer-advocacy organization.
"
OK: Tulsa lawmaker targets millions in tax breaks
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Sen. Tom Adelson said Tuesday that the state could save $259 million by eliminating some tax credits and exemptions.
"
OK: Oklahoma Senate panel quashes beer, wine proposal
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A Senate panel rejected a measure that would allow voters to decide if grocery stores could sell strong beer and wine.
"
OK: Creek smokeshops still selling disputed cigarettes
From: feeds.stateline.org
"After telling a federal court that it would stop supplying its affiliated smokeshops with controversial cigarettes, the Muscogee Creek Nation is allowing the stores to seek and stock the cigarettes on their own, a World investigation shows.
"
OR: New labor laws will help domestic violence victims in Oregon
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Three months after a November string of domestic violence murders -- two of them in workplaces -- Oregon is broadening its umbrella of laws aimed at protecting victims of domestic or sexual violence while they are on the job.
"
OR: Senate votes to block employers from using credit checks before hiring
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A bill blocking many Oregon employers from using credit histories as a routine part of employment screening passed a divided Senate Monday.
"
OR: Owners of foreclosed homes could face fines for upkeep, Oregon House says
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Financial institutions and other companies that own foreclosed homes could face fines of as much as $150 a day if they neglect the property's upkeep under a bill that passed the Oregon House on Monday.
"
OR: State corporate filing fees will rise on Feb. 27
From: feeds.stateline.org
"With higher corporate filing fees scheduled to take effect Feb. 27, after voter approval of Measure 67, the state Corporations Division said businesses can pay current fees if they complete their paperwork by Feb. 26.
"
OR: Tax break may grow for working poor
From: feeds.stateline.org
"An expansion of a tax break for poor working families won support from Portland to Medford — and Woodburn.
"
PA: Audit wants Pa. to tweak 'sound' deer management program
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Pennsylvania Game Commission should share deer population estimates that have been kept from the public and change some elements of its deer management plan, but the plan is essentially sound, according to an independent audit.
"
PA: Staffers tried covering up bonuses to thwart probe, witness says
From: feeds.stateline.org
"More evidence came to light Tuesday about attempts by the House Democratic caucus to cover up a scheme to use tax dollars to distribute bonuses as rewards for work on political campaigns.
"
PA: Senator wants to relax beer-selling laws
From: feeds.stateline.org
"As the sound of Revolutionary War fifes and drums echoed through Capitol hallways Tuesday, supermarkets and convenience stores launched a new attempt at one of the most difficult legislative feats -- liberalizing Pennsylvania's beer-selling laws.
"
PA: State-owned universities examining cost controls
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Facing budgetary troubles, including the loss of $38 million in federal stimulus aid after next year, Pennsylvania's 14 state-owned universities are reviewing "organizational efficiencies" on those campuses and in the chancellor's office.
"
PA: Fears that Rendell's budget shortchanges needy
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Battered by deep cuts last year, groups that offer services to the disabled, the elderly, and children are wincing at what they see in Gov. Rendell's latest proposed budget.
"
PA: Tolls for I-80 still key to transit funding, Rendell says
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Ed Rendell's proposed 2010-11 transportation budget counts on $470 million in revenue from tolling Interstate 80.
"
PA: Code words shrouded state bonus scheme, aide says
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Alleged conspirators in a government corruption scheme used code words and euphemisms to hide secret bonuses from the public, according to testimony Monday in the Bonusgate case.
"
PA: 'Tax hike' not in Pennsylvania lawmakers' vocabulary
From: feeds.stateline.org
"With another multibillion-dollar deficit thought to be around the bend for state government, many might think legislators would be looking at a tax increase.
"
PA: Per-mile fee might not please Pennsylvania motorists
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Charging motorists for every mile they drive could be more reliable than fuel taxes to pay for bridges, highways and transit systems, but would be hard to sell to motorists, according to a national policy group.
"
PA: Rule enabled 'hidden' bonuses, aide testifies in Veon trial
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Top House Democratic staffers believed they could keep a legislative bonus program "hidden" from the public because rules did not specifically require its disclosure, the former caucus administrator testified yesterday.
"
SC: Bill would extend building permits
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State lawmakers can't do much to fix the credit crunch, but some are trying to remove the barriers that might further stall development projects once the financing freeze thaws.
"
SC: Businesses will help, but want action
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Charleston entrepreneur Charles Williams is upset with state legislators. He accuses them of failing for years to fix the state's now-bankrupt unemployment system to protect themselves from the unpopular political decision to raise taxes on businesses.
"
SC: Payday lending law getting another look
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Lawmakers are revisiting payday lending regulations, this time to close a couple of gaping loopholes unforeseen in the new regulatory legislation passed last year.
"
SC: Incinerator plan needs help from lawmakers
From: feeds.stateline.org
"S.C. legislators are being asked to loosen state rules so a New Jersey company can build a $450 million garbage incinerator in jobs-hungry Chester County.
"
TX: Texas challenges EPA's global warming findings
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Texas on Tuesday became the first state to challenge the Environmental Protection Agency's finding that gases blamed for global warming threaten public health. Gov. Rick Perry and other Texas officials said the federal finding is based on flawed science and would harm the state's economy.
"
TX: Day care danger
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A Texas Tribune review of licensed child care centers found that at least 135 subsidized facilities had their licenses revoked or denied by the Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) between 2008 and 2009 and had their funding immediately suspended.
"
TX: Poll -- 52% back visa or path to legal status
From: feeds.stateline.org
"More Texas voters think unauthorized immigrants should be allowed to stay in the United States — through either a path to citizenship or work visas — than favor deporting them, according to a new Houston Chronicle/San Antonio Express-News poll.
"
TX: Is Texas preparing to challenge EPA on greenhouse gases?
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The governor has held several press conferences warning that a curb on greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide would harm Texas businesses.
"
UT: Utah Legislature -- Funds sought to aid drug addiction recovery
From: feeds.stateline.org
"If the state really wants to counter the growing use of prescription drugs, it should promote programs that help people recover as eagerly as legislators approve bills to send people caught using them illegally to jail.
"
UT: Utah Legislature -- Plan may put Snowbird in Sandy
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Skiers in search of "The Greatest Snow on Earth" might be seeking that fine product of Utah's vaunted "lake effect" in a familiar place with an unlikely new address: Snowbird in Sandy.
"
UT: Senate panel OKs bill converting cars to natural gas
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A Senate committee on Tuesday advanced a bill that would make it easier and cheaper for Utahns to convert their cars to compressed natural gas.
"
UT: State-based health reform wins House approval
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State health reform got a boost Tuesday with House passage of a fix-it bill to improve the Utah Health Exchange, an online tool for purchasing health insurance.
"
UT: Utah state revenues continue to slide, but appear to be leveling out
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The good news in the state budget Tuesday is that the bad news isn't as bad as it once was.
"
UT: Workers' comp firm Pinnacol offers $200 million to Colo. in return for greater autonomy
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The managers of Pinnacol Assurance have offered the state $200 million in exchange for greater autonomy in its workers' compensation insurance business.
"
UT: Utah Legislature -- Lawmakers explore idea of privatizing state parks
From: feeds.stateline.org
"As Utah lawmakers look to reduce spending even more in the future, they have some state parks on a possible chopping block as they explore the idea of privatizing them.
"
UT: Bill would allow ads on school buses
From: feeds.stateline.org
"In these cash-strapped times, at least one lawmaker wants to earn some green for schools by allowing ads on yellow buses.
"
UT: Utah Legislature -- Limited bighorn sheep hunt debated for Antelope Island
From: feeds.stateline.org
"As lawmakers scramble to come up with money, some are proposing to open up a limited hunt of bighorn sheep on Antelope Island State Park.
"
UT: Utah Legislature -- Potential loss of COBRA subsidy worries jobless
From: feeds.stateline.org
""The sky isn't falling; it fell a while ago. That's what all this bad air really is."
"
UT: Political newcomer Ryan Nielson enters race for Utah governor
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Ryan Nielson, a 33-year-old small-business owner, announced Monday that he plans to run for governor of Utah this year.
"
VA: House to lift time limit on handgun purchases
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The House of Delegates advanced legislation Monday that would repeal the state's one-handgun-per-month condition and exempt guns made and used in Virginia from federal firearms laws.
"
VA: Virginia gets millions for electronic health data
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Virginia will receive $24 million in federal money during the next four years to improve the exchange of electronic health information.
"
VA: Fish plant works to clean up its act, eliminate smell with $20M
From: feeds.stateline.org
"REEDVILLE, Va. -- Virginia has never been known to beat up companies that violate environmental laws, but in the case of Omega Protein Corp., in 2007, the state had just about seen enough.
"
VT: Burlington Telecom -- 'A colossal mess' for biz leaders
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Burlington Telecom's financial problems, revealed slowly over a period of months, have some in the local business community upset by the processes of city government and possible spillover of BT debt into higher tax rates.
"
VT: Vermont marijuana 'compassion centers' sought
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A bill to set up so-called "compassion centers" for the nearly 200 Vermonters enrolled in the state's medical-marijuana registry is on a legislative committee's docket this week.
"
VT: Vermont looks to sell surplus property online
From: feeds.stateline.org
"States looking to unload surplus property used to do little more than take out an advertisement in the local newspaper, then hang an "Open" sign at a warehouse and set up a cash register. Not anymore.
"
WA: Deadline sinks isthmus bill
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A bill slapping a 35-foot height limit on the isthmus between Budd Inlet and Capitol inlet died Tuesday in the Legislature, but a measure helping Lacey and its fire district sort out annexation-related debt remains alive.
"
WA: Lawmakers wrangle over furlough bill
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Democrats controlling the Legislature are spinning wheels and slipping gears in their quest to make early budget cuts
"
WA: Thomas Stewart's high-powered business, politics left vivid mark
From: feeds.stateline.org
"For more than three decades Thomas J. Stewart cut a broad and sometimes controversial path through the worlds of Washington state business and politics.
"
WI: Wis. Senate passes honey regulations
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The measure would prohibit labeling a product as Wisconsin certified honey unless it was produced in the state and meets test standards developed by state agriculture officials.
"
WI: Report -- Wisconsin 2nd in nation in organic farms
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Wisconsin leads the U.S. in the sale of organically produced cranberries and beef cows and is second in the number of organic farms, according to a federal summary released Tuesday.
"
WI: Senate backs Roth IRA bill
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Wisconsinites of all income levels could convert traditional individual retirement accounts to a Roth IRA without penalty under a bill the state Senate unanimously approved Tuesday.
"
WI: State Assembly passes payday lending measure
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state Assembly approved a bill to clamp down on payday lenders Tuesday, just as Speaker Mike Sheridan (D-Janesville) disclosed he had stopped dating a payday loan lobbyist after taking criticism for the relationship.
"
WI: Reopening GM plant still a longshot
From: feeds.stateline.org
"JANESVILLE, Wisc. -- Despite recent comments by GM North American President Mark Reuss, industry observers say talk of reopening a plant in Janesville or Spring Hill, Tenn., is wildly premature.
"
WI: State crackdown on raw milk sale stirs protest
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A crackdown on raw milk sales has drawn criticism from a legislator and a local sheriff who say the state has been too rough on family farms that sell unpasteurized dairy products.
"
WI: Debate over Clean Energy Jobs Act centers on prices
From: feeds.stateline.org
"In the rhetoric of the energy bill debate in Madison, energy prices will go up - either because the Legislature passes the Clean Energy Jobs Act or because the Legislature fails to pass it.
"
WV: Counties find altered bill more palatable
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Joe Manchin's proposed constitutional amendment to exempt equipment and inventory of new businesses from county personal property taxes is rallying more support from county leaders now that the proposal has undergone significant changes.
"
WY: Sales tax on digital products bill called "anti-high tech"
From: feeds.stateline.org
"After hearing more than two hours of testimony on a wind energy taxation bill, the House Revenue Committee hurriedly gave its blessing this morning to a bill designed to impose a sales tax on digital products downloaded from Wyoming companies.
"
WY: Wyoming State Agencies cut travel expenses
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Since Wyoming Gov. Dave Freudenthal asked state agencies to limit their travel expenses last March, the state's workers are finding new ways to save money.
"
WY: Charges of partisanship fly after defeat of proposed Wyo health care amendment
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The two major political parties in Wyoming issued separate news releases at the end of last week's legislative session about the defeat of House Joint Resolution 12, called "Health Freedom of Choice" by its sponsors, all Republicans.
"
WY: Need for liquor tax overstated, association says
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The legislature's Joint Appropriations Committee received a white paper today outlining the cost of a new state liquor warehouse.
"
WY: Lawmakers in second week face bill deadlines
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Wyoming state lawmakers will be pushing to get their pet bills past tight deadlines in this second week of the four-week budget session.
"
WY: Taking their case to the Capitol
From: feeds.stateline.org
"ROCK SPRINGS, Wy. -- While "Tree Street" homeowners Becky Kelley and Donna Maynard prowled the State Capital halls in Cheyenne most of last week, the pair sported bright orange buttons on their lapels.
"
WY: Panel trims wind tax by two-thirds
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Joint Revenue Committee voted Monday morning to cut the proposed excise tax on wind energy from $3 per megawatt hour to $1 per megawatt hour.
"
States renege on local aid
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Faced with massive deficits, state lawmakers are holding onto payments owed to municipal governments and using the money to balance state books. By holding money back, state officials are forcing their local counterparts to make even more difficult decisions about program cuts and tax increases. That has opened up a new gulf between the two levels of government and sparked lawsuits accusing state governments of improperly withholding money.
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More power in the statehouse?
From: feeds.stateline.org
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Congressman J. Gresham Barrett of South Carolina says he decided to run for governor the moment President Obama signed the massive federal stimulus package into law last year. “It is time the states reassert their sovereignty,” says Barrett, a four-term conservative Republican. “That’s an effort I will gladly champion as governor.” He is giving up his congressional seat even though he doesn’t exactly have a clear path to the statehouse — Barrett faces a crowded field of Republicans hoping to succeed Republican Governor Mark Sanford, who is term-limited from running again. There are a surprising number of Gresham Barretts roaming the halls of Congress this year. Nine members hope to leave Washington and take over one of the 37 governorships up for grabs.
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Weekly wrap: In gloomy times, Alaska bounces back
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Oil price increases fuel Alaska's $2.2 billion budget surplus; Delaware sees at least five more years of slow revenue growth; and President Obama calls on Congress to continue a popular municipal bond program.
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From: feeds.stateline.org
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