AK: Oil industry -- Cut taxes, boost jobs
From: www.juneauempire.com
"Jobs in Alaska's oil industry are down, and some in the industry hope that might translate into oil taxes going down as well."
AK: Lawmakers scramble to file favorite bills before deadline
From: www.adn.com
"With this legislative session a third of the way through and energy dominating the debate so far, there's a creeping sense of frustration among lawmakers that some of their bills are getting short shrift."
AK: Congress changes cut into state earmarks
From: www.adn.com
"WASHINGTON -- Alaskans may have lost their title as the No. 1 per capita recipients of earmarks, but it doesn't mean the federal spigot has run dry for the state that made the so-called "bridge to nowhere" a buzzword for wasteful spending.
"
AL: Report -- Ala gambling interests gave $2.2M to PACs
From: www.al.com
"During the last three days of 2009, Alabama gambling interests wrote checks for more than $2.2 million to political action committees, according to campaign finance reports. The money flowed as the state gears up for election season and a legislative and legal battle that could decide the fate of electronic bingo in the state."
AL: U.S. Rep. Artur Davis lays out economic plan as candidate for Alabama governor
From: blog.al.com
"Democratic candidate for governor Artur Davis laid out an economic plan Monday that relies on tax credits rather than casinos to create jobs and end record unemployment."
AR: Stimulus helping, Lincoln says
From: www.arkansasonline.com
"U.S. Sen. Blanche Lincoln says her Republican opponents should get out more and see what's been accomplished with federal stimulus dollars in Arkansas."
AR: State seeks bids to set up trauma call center
From: www.arkansasonline.com
"The Arkansas Department of Health is seeking a contractor to develop and manage a call center that will be the "nerve center" of the new statewide trauma system, the state health officer said."
AR: Governor appoints 15 to commissions, boards
From: arkansasnews.com
"Gov. Mike Beebe on Friday announced 15 appointments to state boards and commissions."
AR: Stimulus report -- 1,622 jobs created or saved in state in late 2009
From: arkansasnews.com
"Federal stimulus funds created or saved 1,622 jobs in Arkansas durin the last three months of 2009, the state Office of Recovery and Reinvestment said in a report released today."
AZ: Car-rental companies oppose Cubs stadium charge
From: azdailysun.com
"Arizona lawmakers are searching for a way to build a new spring-training stadium for the Chicago Cubs without dipping into depleted state coffers or raising taxes."
AZ: Study -- Tucson-area mine won't harm Ariz. tourism
From: azdailysun.com
"A proposed copper mine near Tucson would not have a major effect on tourism and could bring in as many visitors as it might keep away, an Arizona State University research professor has told a forum on the mine."
AZ: Math doesn't work for Ariz. payday loan industry
From: azdailysun.com
"The industry that provides small short-term loans is fighting in the Legislature to keep itself alive beyond a June 30 termination date that was included in the authorization law enacted 10 years ago."
CA: California to tap markets
From: online.wsj.com
"NEW YORK — California, owner of the worst credit ranking among U.S. states, plans to tap bond markets for $4 billion in March to finance infrastructure improvements, a spokesman for State Treasurer Bill Lockyer said."
CA: U.S. offers solar project a crucial loan guarantee
From: www.nytimes.com
"The United States Department of Energy offered a $1.37 billion loan guarantee on Monday to a California company planning to build a large-scale solar power plant in the Southern California desert."
CA: California regulator finds Blue Cross violations
From: www.sacbee.com
"California Insurance Commissioner Steve Poizner said Monday an investigation has turned up more than 700 claims-handling violations by Anthem Blue Cross, California's largest for-profit health insurer."
CA: As Anthem Blue Cross sends profit to WellPoint, it plans hefty rate hikes for Californians
From: www.latimes.com
"Health insurance giant Anthem Blue Cross said it was raising rates on thousands of individual policyholders in California because the cost of their medical care exceeded the premiums they paid last year."
CA: Under threat of veto, gas tax package on hold
From: latimesblogs.latimes.com
"Democratic state senators are putting the brakes on a plan to change the way gasoline is taxed in California because Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger has indicated he would veto their current proposal. Lawmakers and the governor are now negotiating to try to craft legislation Schwarzenegger would sign."
CA: Trial begins over lawsuit targeting Anthem Blue Cross
From: www.latimes.com
"Insurance giant Anthem Blue Cross refused to pay for a California produce merchant to get a liver transplant in Indiana because the company wanted to save money, a lawyer for the patient told jurors Monday."
CA: Despite dire predictions, state farm jobs aren't disappearing
From: www.latimes.com
"When California Sen. Dianne Feinstein drafted legislation that would weaken endangered species protections to deliver more water to San Joaquin Valley farms, her rationale was jobs."
CA: Former CalPERS officials benefit from fund's clean-tech investments
From: www.sacbee.com
"When the former chief executive for CalPERS, Fred Buenrostro, moved the giant pension fund into the clean energy and technology sector three years ago, two of the businessmen who ultimately benefited were friends."
CA: Group fights plan to fine tax cheats
From: www.latimes.com
"Manufacturing businesses, big financial firms and energy companies are eager for new tax breaks in California -- but not if it means officials will take a harder look at how they claim the credits."
CO: Report -- Colo. consumers pay credit cards first
From: www.denverpost.com
"In the calculus of what bills to pay first, Colorado consumers are placing credit cards ahead of mortgages, according to a report Monday from credit-reporting agency Trans Union.
"
CO: Colorado Senate president pans Pinnacol separation bid
From: www.denverpost.com
"The head of the Colorado Senate said Monday he does not want to privatize Pinnacol Assurance, a pronouncement that could dim prospects for the cash-strapped state to reap hundreds of millions of dollars by spinning off the workers' compensation insurance fund.
"
CO: Colorado's high court rejects ban on campaign contributions
From: www.denverpost.com
"In another blow to restrictions on political giving by business and labor interests, Colorado's top court Monday rejected a voter-approved measure to bar holders of large, no-bid government contracts from making campaign contributions.
"
CO: Colorado looks at overlapping programs at colleges, universities
From: www.denverpost.com
"When the University of Colorado Denver announced a brand new bioengineering department this month, it took only a couple of days for Colorado State University to point out that it already had such a program.
"
CO: Xcel says it has no nuclear plans for Colorado
From: coloradoindependent.com
"A spokesman for Xcel Energy told the Colorado Independent today that the company has not proposed a nuclear power plant for Colorado. "
CO: State Supreme Court declares 'clean government' Amendment 54 unconstitutional
From: coloradoindependent.com
"In a four to one vote, the Colorado Supreme Court this morning declared that so-called clean elections Amendment 54 unconstitutionally tramped on the right to free speech. "
CO: McInnis steps up, says he doesn't support state anti-tax initiatives
From: coloradoindependent.com
"Long silent on the subject of three Colorado tax-slashing ballot initiatives, Republican candidate for governor Scott McInnis reportedly told attendees at the state's Contractors Association convention at the beginning of the month that in fact he did not support the initiatives, which have been popular with Tea Party activists in the state. "
CO: Proposed tax credit for businesses creates divide in Colo. legislature
From: www.denverpost.com
"The message at times from Democrats at the state Capitol this year has been that a host of tax exemptions and credits for businesses amount to corporate "loopholes" or "welfare."
"
CO: Voters may get say on limiting payday loan rates
From: www.denverpost.com
"Payday loan customers could see drastically lower interest rates if a bill scheduled to hit the Capitol Monday can overcome barriers that unraveled a similar plan two years ago.
"
CO: Years as a social worker influence statehouse maverick Frangas
From: www.denverpost.com
"He's now a full-time lawmaker, but when he arrived at the legislature in 2003, he was a social worker for the Denver Department of Human Services.
"
CO: Minority leaders call for response to racial disparity in unemployment rate
From: www.denverpost.com
"The high rate of unemployment among minorities is prompting calls for more action in Washington and focusing attention on a long-standing and intractable problem.
"
CO: Taxes, spending -- Reaction sharp to Colo. ballot issues
From: www.denverpost.com
"Three measures on the November ballot have alternately been described as efforts to destroy Colorado or save it from an ever-growing government.
"
CT: Blumenthal -- Fed misses crucial deadline to roll back credit rates, fees
From: www.courant.com
"Even as a slew of new protections for credit card users went into effect Monday, the state attorney general criticized a key federal banking regulator for undermining those efforts."
CT: Bill would require review of health insurance rates
From: www.nhregister.com
"The state's health care advocate is proposing legislation that would open up review of health insurance rate increases in Connecticut, while allowing his office and the attorney general to act as intervenors and appeal decisions to the courts."
CT: Foreclosures on the rise in Connecticut
From: www.courant.com
"Home sales and prices appear to be gaining some stability in Connecticut, but a sobering report Friday showed that the number of residential borrowers struggling to make mortgage payments is higher than at any other time in the past 30 years."
CT: Stop & Shop union members vote to authorize a strike
From: www.courant.com
"ROCKY HILL, Conn. -- About 1,500 unionized Stop & Shop workers in Connecticut joined fellow workers in Massachusetts and Rhode Island on Sunday in voting to strike, but the union said that there will be no walkout for at least another week."
CT: Movement on nuclear power good news for Westinghouse's Windsor plant
From: www.courant.com
"WINDSOR, Conn. -- After long-dormant decades, when only Asia and Europe were building new nuclear power reactors, excavation has begun for the first U.S. nuclear power plant in 30 years — and local engineers helped design its two reactors."
DE: Delmar to vote on casino amendment
From: www.delawareonline.com
"DELMAR, Del. — A decision on whether to amend the Delaware side of town's zoning ordinance to make it more casino friendly is expected to be made tonight."
DE: DNREC, steel plant working on accord
From: www.delawareonline.com
"A new pollution control settlement is in the works at Evraz Claymont Steel, state officials have confirmed, amid renewed neighborhood concern about chronic and potentially harmful soot releases from the scrap recycling plant."
FL: Crist defends stimulus spending -- 'This was necessary'
From: www.tallahassee.com
"WASHINGTON — Florida Gov. Charlie Crist defended the federal stimulus package signed into law last year, saying Monday that it created and saved jobs."
FL: How a bold eBay scam was tracked to South Florida
From: www.miamiherald.com
"Earlier this month, Nilton Rossoni, 50, a Brazilian businessman with multiple aliases who had lived in Sunny Isles Beach and Fort Lauderdale, was sentenced to 5 years in federal prison for running one of the biggest eBay scams in history."
FL: Tomato squeeze -- Supply down from the freeze
From: www.miamiherald.com
"It's not a mistake if your Whopper arrives without the usual two slices of tomatoes. Burger King restaurants across the country have been running out of tomatoes sporadically for the past week, and that's likely to continue in the aftermath of the freeze that devastated Florida's tomato crop last month."
FL: Courts struggle to keep up as cash-strapped parents try to modify child support
From: www.tampabay.com
"Cash-strapped parents seeking child support relief have clogged the state's family court system, forcing hearing officers to work overtime and judges to play case managers."
FL: Environmental fight brewing over rock mining push on former Everglades land
From: www.sun-sentinel.com
"Palm Beach Aggregates plans to expand its rock mining to 2,300 acres — allowing 25 more years of digging — in an area environmentalists contend threatens Everglades restoration."
FL: More than 20,000 Floridians each week stand to lose unemployment benefits unless Senate acts
From: www.sun-sentinel.com
"WASHINGTON - More than 20,000 Floridians each week will see their unemployment benefits run dry starting in March unless Congress acts to extend their aid.
"
FL: U.S. tries to keep struggling owners in homes
From: www.miamiherald.com
" The government threw a $1.5 billion lifeline to unemployed and underwater homeowners on Friday, amid a new report suggesting the nation's foreclosure crisis may be easing. Under the initiative, Florida and four other states that have seen home prices fall by at least 20 percent since their peak will be eligible to apply for the funds."
GA: Telephone, computer privatization set to cost Ga. $35.2M more
From: www.macon.com
"State officials say the 2009 privatization of telephone and computer services eventually will save the state significant money, but so far it's cost the state tens of millions of dollars more."
GA: Financial disclosure forms stir controversy
From: www.ajc.com
"As Georgia's inspector general, Elizabeth Archer roots out waste, corruption and favoritism in state government. So, Archer said, it was a bit of an embarrassment last month to learn she hadn't filed her 2008 disclosure of personal finances. The one required by state law."
GA: Georgia praised for customer service
From: www.ajc.com
"State bureaucrats are often faceless cogs blandly derided as incompetent and insufferable. But a number of national publications and experts, including the founder of Craigslist and White House officials, have lauded Georgia state government's efforts at improving customer service."
HI: Lawmakers inclined to raid funds
From: www.starbulletin.com
"Gambling, civil unions, banning fireworks and raiding the city's transit fund to balance the state budget all appear to be losing support at the Legislature.
"
HI: Bill would create surfing reserves
From: www.starbulletin.com
"Hawaii might be the birthplace of surfing, but some worry other locales are upstaging the state as a surfing mecca."
HI: Bill would create surfing reserves
From: www.starbulletin.com
"Hawaii might be the birthplace of surfing, but some worry other locales are upstaging the state as a surfing mecca."
HI: Lingle tells feds her administration will do separate rail analysis
From: www.honoluluadvertiser.com
"Gov. Linda Lingle, in Washington, D.C., for the National Governors Association's annual winter meeting, told Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood that her administration plans to conduct a separate financial analysis of the city's plans for a rail system."
IA: New credit card protections in place today
From: www.radioiowa.com
"Iowa Attorney General Tom Miller says new protections for credit card users that took effect today should serve as a reminder to consumers to carefully read their monthly billing statements and shop around for the best credit card terms."
IA: Opponents -- Easing manure legislation will hurt environment
From: www.siouxcityjournal.com
"Opponents of an effort to ease some restrictions on spreading manure on frozen or snow-covered ground Monday held a noisy Statehouse rally urging lawmakers to "kill the bill.""
IA: Homan's use of 'scab' riles state employee
From: www.desmoinesregister.com
"A union leader inadvertently sent e-mail that calls a state worker a derogatory term, and the employee says that hints at the union attitude toward people who are not union members."
IA: Broader labor-fee measure sought in House
From: www.desmoinesregister.com
"All public employee unions could charge nonmembers fees for services under an amendment introduced Monday to broaden an already controversial labor bill.
"
IA: 2 more film office firings complicate criminal probe
From: www.desmoinesregister.com
"The firings Monday of two more managers within Iowa's Department of Economic Development promise to complicate an ongoing criminal investigation into misuse of state film tax incentives."
IA: Higher unemployment tax keeps some jobs unfilled
From: www.desmoinesregister.com
"Some Iowa businesses say rising state costs to provide benefits for laid-off workers are hurting efforts to hire employees and recover from the recession."
IA: Several knew of film claims
From: www.desmoinesregister.com
"In the weeks before Iowa's film program collapsed last fall, several top economic development officials were negotiating with a Minnesota filmmaker who fought for more than a year for tax breaks on services that never cost a dime, newly obtained state correspondence shows."
IA: U.S. foreclosure numbers improve, but Iowa not following
From: www.desmoinesregister.com
"U.S. homeowners may begin celebrating the "beginning of the end" of economy-crushing foreclosures and late mortgage payments, but Iowans may want to hold tight to their noisemakers."
IA: Wildlife improvises when snow and ice make their menus skimpier than usual
From: www.desmoinesregister.com
"Eagles struggling to find a meal in Iowa's snow-smothered landscape are sinking their talons into piglets on a Dyersville farm and carrying them away."
IA: Mega Millions off to good start in Iowa
From: www.desmoinesregister.com
"Iowa Lottery players have spent more than $500,000 on the Mega Millions jackpot game since sales were launched here on Jan. 31."
ID: E. Idaho company to assemble wind turbines
From: www.idahostatesman.com
"POCATELLO, Idaho — A newly-formed company in eastern Idaho plans to start assembling wind turbines in Pocatello."
ID: Fed-bashing Idaho lawmakers weigh state vs. local
From: www.idahostatesman.com
"Bashing Washington, D.C., is a beloved Idaho Capitol pastime, as majority Republicans repeat phrases like "states' rights" and "local control" like an incantation."
IL: Wind energy project near Pana gaining momentum
From: www.herald-review.com
"PANA, Ill. -- The Rolling Farms wind energy project near Pana is rolling right along, blowing in the prospect of a $350 million investment, hundreds of construction jobs and annual rental fees to local landowners worth a total $1.3 million."
IL: Weather Service -- Midwestern floods highly probable
From: www.qctimes.com
"Communities along rivers in the Midwest are bracing for would could be a whopper of a spring flood season, with the National Weather Service warning of a "high probability" of significant flooding along parts of the Mississippi and Missouri rivers and their tributaries."
IL: Downtown hotel project scaled back; state bond sought
From: www.pjstar.com
"PEORIA, Ill. -- The developer of the Downtown Hotel Marriott project wants a state-supported bond of $7.8 million to help outfit the structure with energy-efficient features such as lighting and windows."
IL: Bankruptcies up in central Illinois
From: www.sj-r.com
"Unemployment and medical bills are the most common reasons for bankruptcy filings, but credit cards still play a role, a local bankruptcy trustee said Monday."
IL: Measure would loosen regulation on hobby beekeepers
From: www.sj-r.com
"Dawson-area resident Dave Nutt is a beginner beekeeper who does it for the hobby and the honey, not the money. But Nutt knows from other beekeepers that trying to sell honey at local farmers' markets or elsewhere will mean government intrusion. "
IL: State GOP pressures Giannoulias to answer bank questions
From: www.suntimes.com
"Illinois' Republican Party is keeping up a steady drumbeat of pressure on Democratic U.S. Senate nominee Alexi Giannoulias to answer questions about his family's Broadway Bank."
IL: Impact of late, wet harvest might be felt well into 2010
From: www.sj-r.com
"BERRY, Ill. -- One of the latest, wettest harvests in decades is still working its way through Illinois grain elevators, bringing with it higher costs, quality issues, safety hazards, and possible effects on affect prices and planting during the 2010 season."
IL: Winery numbers up, wine production down in Illinois
From: www.sj-r.com
"There are 91 wineries in the state compared to 68 in 2005, based on an update compiled last fall by the Illinois Grape Growers and Vintners Association. Annual production fell from 500,000 to 367,000 in the same period."
IL: George Washington Savings Bank fails
From: www.chicagobreakingbusiness.com
"George Washington Savings Bank, a $412.8 million-asset thrift established in 1889, failed Friday, and its assets and deposits were purchased by FirstMerit Bank of Akron."
IL: EPA plans to spend $2.2 billion on Great Lakes
From: www.chicagobreakingnews.com
"The Environmental Protection Agency will spend $2.2 billion over five years on the Great Lakes to clean up polluted water and beaches, restore wetlands and fight invasive species such as Asian carp in a revitalization effort to be detailed Sunday."
IN: Zoeller wants EC to reject casino deal
From: www.post-trib.com
"Indiana Attorney General Greg Zoeller said he will personally ask the East Chicago City Council to vote against a court settlement with Second Century Inc. at its meeting tonight. "
IN: California regulator finds Anthem Blue Cross violations
From: www.ibj.com
"California's insurance regulator said Monday his office has found more than 700 violations by the state's largest for-profit health insurer, including late payment of claims, giving misleading information to consumers and failing to cooperate with regulators."
IN: State lawmakers prod insurer for data
From: www.indystar.com
"WellPoint -- as it prepares to be questioned on Capitol Hill about its California rates -- also faces increased political scrutiny in its home state of Indiana."
IN: Is Illiana a runway to Peotone airport?
From: www.post-trib.com
"There are several reasons to support the Illiana Expressway. Some people hate sitting on the Borman Expressway, the notoriously congested interstate labeled a "parking lot" at a public hearing last week."
KS: Senate panel mulls Kansas spending amendment
From: www.kansas.com
"A Kansas Senate panel is taking up a proposed amendment to the state Constitution creating a "rainy day fund" in the budget.
"
KS: Kansas House committee to take up states' rights
From: www.kansas.com
"A Kansas House committee is taking up a states' rights resolution declaring that the federal government has become too intrusive.
"
KS: In a time of budget cuts, yacht sales sail through untaxed in Missouri
From: www.kansascity.com
"Cash-strapped legislators have recommended spending cuts for Missouri schools and shelters for battered women, but so far the yachting class can enjoy another season of clear sailing.
"
KS: House approves bill to waive marriage license fees for the poor
From: www2.ljworld.com
"The Kansas House has approved a measure that would waive a $69 marriage fee for couples who can prove they can't afford it."
KS: Kansas House approves measure to ease unemployment tax burden on businesses
From: www2.ljworld.com
"Kansas businesses could soon get a break from paying higher fees rates to the state unemployment compensation fund."
KY: House passes pipeline bill
From: www.courier-journal.com
"The Kentucky House passed a bill Friday that would give transmission pipeline companies the right to condemn land for carbon dioxide pipelines."
KY: Animal welfare bills under debate
From: www.courier-journal.com
"Even as critics say Kentucky has some of the worst animal welfare laws in the country, bills to protect animals are getting more attention in the General Assembly this year."
LA: State approves cultural districts
From: www.2theadvocate.com
"The state has approved midcity Baton Rouge and downtown Lafayette for cultural products districts, a designation that seeks to promote arts development by waiving sales taxes on original works sold within the districts and providing tax credits for rehabilitating the districts' historic buildings."
MA: Mass. home sales, prices rebound in January
From: bostonherald.com
"Single-family home sales increased for the seventh consecutive month and prices rose as the region's housing market continues to rebound."
MA: Brown, 4 others in GOP break ranks to advance jobs bill
From: www.boston.com
"WASHINGTON - Senator Scott Brown came into office as someone who could deliver the pivotal vote for the GOP to halt Democratic initiatives. But yesterday, Brown delivered for the Democrats, helping them advance a jobs bill President Obama and his party seek."
MA: Yemeni LNG tanker arrives in Boston
From: www.boston.com
"The first shipment of liquefied natural gas from Yemen arrived safely in Boston this morning with a cadre of law enforcement vessels surrounding it."
MA: Bill seeks to make Mass. more 'business-friendly'
From: www.bostonherald.com
"Lawmakers are weighing a bill that Senate President Therese Murray says will make the state more business friendly."
MD: Firms want payment for work on slots bid
From: www.baltimoresun.com
"Architects, a public relations firm and several other companies that were part of a rejected bid to build a casino in downtown Baltimore claim they are owed $771,000 by the Canadian home builder who led the proposal - the latest sign of disarray surrounding efforts to bring slot machines to the city.
"
MD: Deep cuts coming, Rawlings-Blake warns city
From: www.baltimoresun.com
"Mayor Stephanie C. Rawlings-Blake delivered a somber State of the City address Monday, warning of deep cuts to city services in the coming months as a result of a "devastating" budget shortfall."
MD: urveyors of slots jockeying to cash in
From: www.baltimoresun.com
"A small group of companies vying to provide the slot machines for Maryland's fledging program have spent hundreds of thousands of dollars hiring Annapolis lobbyists, betting that State House influence would help them shape the gambling program and win part of a contract that could be worth up to $150 million."
MD: Lawmakers still support bond bills
From: www.hometownannapolis.com
"Even if Maryland lawmakers cannot fund everything they want while the state and nation struggle to recover from the recession, senators and delegates are continuing their annual push for local dollars."
ME: Indian game revenues drop, prompting legislation
From: www.kjonline.com
"The economy and competition from a nearby gambling venue have dropped revenues at the Penobscot Nation's beano games, leading a tribal representative to ask for a license fee reduction."
ME: New federal rule on seasonal work could imperil state's apple industry
From: www.bangordailynews.com
"MACHIAS, Maine — A new U.S. Department of Labor rule concerning temporary agricultural workers could have an adverse impact on Maine's apple industry, growers said last week."
ME: Baldacci team to visit Stinson Seafood today
From: www.bangordailynews.com
"GOULDSBORO, Maine — Gov. John Baldacci is expected to meet with local officials today to discuss the announced closure of the Stinson Seafood sardine cannery in the village of Prospect Harbor."
ME: $27.8M stimulus aid raises divisions
From: www.bangordailynews.com
"Republican and Democratic budget writers in Maine are at odds on how to use a $27.8 million cash infusion from the federal government. "
ME: Baldacci seeks wind power cooperation
From: www.bangordailynews.com
"Gov. John Baldacci was in Washington, D.C., on Friday to discuss opportunities for more regional cooperation between Atlantic Coast states and the federal government for developing offshore wind energy facilities."
ME: Hearings set on proposed insurance rate hikes
From: www.bangordailynews.com
"Maine's Bureau of Insurance will hold public comment sessions this week on proposed rate increases by two health insurers doing business in Maine."
ME: Bills to address Canadians working in Maine woods
From: www.bangordailynews.com
"Lawmakers will delve into the recurring cross-border tensions over use of Canadian loggers in the Maine woods this week when they consider two bills that would stiffen the penalties for outfits that violate foreign labor laws."
ME: Railway shutdown looms in Maine
From: www.boston.com
"PORTLAND, Maine - The collapse of the housing market is largely to blame for a railroad company's plans to abandon miles of track in the far-flung northern third of Maine that have served the region for more than a century carrying potatoes, paper, lumber, and other products."
MI: Vern Ehlers says Asian carp have been concern for 12 years
From: www.mlive.com
"GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. -- U.S. Rep. Vern Ehlers, R-Grand Rapids, Monday said Michigan residents need to recognize that the Asian carp threat is real and imminent."
MI: General Electric plans to give work to up to 50 Michigan firms
From: www.freep.com
"General Electric Co. is looking for up to 50 new suppliers in metro Detroit to make about $25 million worth of parts for home appliances."
MI: The video game producer
From: www.freep.com
"Though movies get all the limelight, Michigan's tax breaks are also attracting video game developers like Derek Faraci."
MI: Michigan to share in $1.5B for homeowners
From: www.freep.com
"WASHINGTON -- Michigan is among five states getting money under a $1.5-billion program announced Friday to help struggling homeowners, but it's unclear how many people will be helped or how the program would work."
MN: Legislature OKs public works bill, but Pawlenty promises veto
From: www.twincities.com
"Even before the Minnesota House and Senate voted on a $1 billion public works bill Monday night, Gov. Tim Pawlenty announced he would veto the entire measure because of its size and construction priorities. "
MN: Minn. lawmaker wants less phonebook printing
From: www.startribune.com
"Don't want a phone book? A Minnesota lawmaker aims to help."
MN: Spend or cut taxes -- Parties duel over job plans
From: www.startribune.com
"Feeling growing pressure to create more jobs, Republican and Democratic leaders from the State Capitol to Washington are battling over new steps to stimulate the economy."
MN: Legacy funds join the budget buffet
From: www.startribune.com
"Joel Young has been one busy guy. He is fresh off his success, as Chatfield's city clerk, in snagging $6,750 in state Legacy funds for a city arts center. Now he is after the real prize: a $7 million chunk of the state bonding bill -- also for the arts center in the southeastern Minnesota city. He may then bounce back to the Legacy fund for another $50,000."
MN: Pawlenty rips stimulus program
From: www.twincities.com
"Gov. Tim Pawlenty says the federal economic stimulus program has been "largely a waste of money" that failed to produce private-sector jobs."
MN: Conferees seeking bonding bill trims
From: www.twincities.com
"Minnesota House and Senate negotiators started reviewing $1.2 billion in previously approved public works projects Sunday afternoon, looking for places to trim spending in order to assemble a bonding bill that costs less than $1 billion. They want to present it to both houses of the Legislature for final votes today. "
MO: Bid to strip President of license stirs concern
From: www.stltoday.com
"The bid by Missouri gambling regulators to revoke the President Casino's license simply for not making enough money may be the most aggressive action ever taken by a state against a U.S. casino."
MO: Missouri State University considers $52M bond plan
From: hosted.ap.org
"SPRINGFIELD, Mo. -- Missouri State University is considering whether to issue bonds to pay for campus construction projects."
MO: Mo. tax plan to be debated, but passage doubtful
From: hosted.ap.org
"A plan to replace Missouri's income tax with a broad sales tax will get debated in the Legislature. But top lawmakers are doubtful it will pass."
MO: Missouri colleges told to prepare for deep budget cuts
From: www.kansascity.com
"Missouri lawmakers and university presidents are painting a bleak picture of future higher education funding as student enrollment rises across the state.
"
MS: Mississippi casino revenues up in January
From: www.sunherald.com
"Mississippi's state-licensed casinos reported January revenues of $193.2 million, up about $8.3 million from December."
MS: Legislation to help sweet potato farmers pending
From: nems360.com
"Sweet potato farmers, who lost much of their crop to heavy rains last year, could receive state help in getting loans under a bill that passed the House recently."
MS: Penny slots heat up at casinos
From: www.sunherald.com
"BILOXI, Miss. -- They look and sound like video games and the bonus rounds make penny slots the hottest games in town."
MS: Rankin Co. weathering downturn, data show
From: www.clarionledger.com
"Home building decreased by more than a third last year in Rankin County, but it remains one of the state's fastest-growing areas."
MT: Child care businesses worry about plan to cancel funding boost as costs increase
From: www.missoulian.com
"If the state goes ahead with plans to cancel a $230,000 increase in child care subsidies next year, kids from poorer working families will be priced out of some child care centers and preschools, providers say."
MT: Child care businesses worry about plan to cancel funding boost as costs increase
From: www.missoulian.com
"If the state goes ahead with plans to cancel a $230,000 increase in child care subsidies next year, kids from poorer working families will be priced out of some child care centers and preschools, providers say."
MT: Mental health professionals urge crisis centers as governor weighs budget cuts
From: www.missoulian.com
"As Gov. Brian Schweitzer prepares to chop $40 million from the state budget, mental health advocates are hoping at least part of a new initiative survives: funding local crisis centers, to prevent patients from being sent unnecessarily to the State Hospital."
MT: 'Provider rate' loss will hurt
From: www.billingsgazette.com
"CLANCY, Mont. — For the 60 people who live at the Elkhorn Health and Rehabilitation Center, state "provider rates" finance part of their home — and any freeze or cut in the rate means something has to give, says administrator Kathleen McArdle."
NC: NC governor worried about lack of small biz loans
From: www2.journalnow.com
"North Carolina Gov. Beverly Perdue wants the federal government to ease tight credit markets making it hard for small banks to lend money to growing businesses."
NC: Suit fuels fraud case
From: www.newsobserver.com
"One of the largest mortgage fraud cases in state history has gotten bigger."
NC: N.C. voters -- Economy on 'wrong track'
From: www.charlotteobserver.com
"Betsy Osborn not only gets frustrated when she hears President Obama talk about the economy, she gets angry. "I don't think you can spend your way to a prosperous economy," says the 56-year-old dental hygienist from Albemarle."
ND: North Dakota Counties vie for oil impact money
From: www.inforum.com
"Record funds are available this year under a state program that provides grants to counties adversely affected by oil development."
ND: Goodrich in Jamestown to lay off 60
From: www.inforum.com
"JAMESTOWN, N.D. -- Goodrich Corp. officials on Monday announced the company will lay off about 60 employees at a manufacturing plant here."
NE: Climatologist -- Rocky Mountain snow bad for Platte; flood risk high in eastern Nebraska
From: www.journalstar.com
"While snow blankets much of the country, snow pack across the central and northern Rockies has been poor -- which could cause the Platte River system to fall short of last fall's stream flow expectations, state climatologist Al Dutcher said Monday."
NE: More water problems bubbling in Nebraska Legislature
From: www.journalstar.com
"On Monday, lawmakers debated a bill (LB689) that would block a plan to use part of an existing, per-bushel checkoff fees on corn and grain sorghum to raise money for a state water fund."
NH: OSHA cites contractors after fatal NH tower fall
From: www.boston.com
"EPPING, N.H.—The federal government is proposing fines of more than $280,000 against two contractors after a worker fell to his death from a water tower in Epping, N.H., last year."
NH: Times may be changing for LLC tax
From: www.theunionleader.com
"Now that rules are in place for the LLC tax, it's time to change it."
NH: Wood-fired power still on horizon
From: www.concordmonitor.com
"First, it required winning over the neighbors, who several years earlier had stood up against plans to build a shopping mall on the same piece of land. So shortly after announcing plans to build a state-of-the-art, wood-fired power plant in the South End, Concord Steam held a series of meetings to assure residents their neighborhood wouldn't be overwhelmed by trucks, noise or smoke. "
NH: Border toll system on the horizon
From: www.concordmonitor.com
"The state's transportation chief says he will seek federal approval for an electronic toll-collection system on Interstate 93. "
NH: Miller completes his legend
From: www.boston.com
"VANCOUVER, British Columbia - Fulfilling career-long expectations and erasing past Olympic disappointment, Bode Miller of Franconia, N.H., won gold in the men's super-combined ski race yesterday at Whistler Creekside."
NJ: State to investigate Jersey City pension payouts
From: www.nj.com
"The state Division of Pensions and Benefits will conduct an investigation into two long-time Jersey City employees who retired but are staying on the city payroll, according to the governor's office."
NJ: State treasurer to lawmakers -- Administration is focused on fiscal 2011
From: www.northjersey.com
"Governor Christie's state treasurer on Monday told lawmakers seeking to debate recent spending cuts that the new administration has already moved on to preparing the next state budget."
NJ: Senate confirms Christie nominees Eristoff, Solomon
From: www.northjersey.com
"The full Senate Monday confirmed Andrew Eristoff as state treasurer and Superior Court Judge Lee Solomon to head the state Board of Public Utilities.
"
NJ: Senate easily passes public employee pensions bills
From: www.northjersey.com
"Pension-reform legislation appears headed for rapid legislative approval, as a unanimous Senate vote Monday signaled bipartisan will to stabilize a chronically underfunded retirement fund."
NJ: N.J. judge won't block 'Jersey Shore' DVD release
From: www.nj.com
"TOMS RIVER, N.J. — A man who says he was beaten during an episode of MTV's "Jersey Shore" reality show has lost his bid to stop the release of a video depicting the incident."
NJ: N.J. Senate approves ban on 'diploma mills' for school administrators, teachers to boost salaries
From: www.nj.com
"The state Senate today voted 38-0 to approve a bill that cracks down on the use of "diploma mills" — unaccredited institutions of higher learning — by school administrators and teachers who obtain advanced degrees and then are able to boost their salaries."
NJ: N.J. Senate eases wind turbine limits in Atlantic City
From: www.nj.com
"Current DEP restrictions prohibit wind turbines within 500 feet of a mean high water line, but a bill the Senate approved today would roll back that rule for Atlantic City."
NJ: Witness tells FBI ex-N.J. assemblyman Joe Doria never received bribes
From: blog.nj.com
"Seven months after federal prosecutors and the FBI pulled off the largest sting in New Jersey history, one of the most prominent names the government investigated remains uncharged."
NJ: Christie's transit-funding plan draws criticism
From: www.philly.com
"Plans in New Jersey to cut service and drastically raise transit fares ran into sharp criticism at a legislative hearing yesterday, as the new boss of New Jersey Transit outlined Gov. Christie's plan to save money by reducing the state's transit subsidy."
NJ: Senator gets post at port agency
From: www.philly.com
"Gov. Christie has tapped one of his closest allies in the New Jersey Senate to help direct the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey. "
NJ: Court stays suspension of affordable-housing laws
From: www.philly.com
"Gov. Christie's 90-day suspension of New Jersey's affordable-housing regulations has been lifted temporarily under a stay granted by the Appellate Division of Superior Court. "
NJ: N.J. Gov. Chris Christie's brash talk captures attention of national Republicans
From: www.nj.com
"Chris Christie ran for governor as a Jersey guy, an unapologetic native son who oozed with homegrown attitude. "
NJ: Council On Affordable Housing -- Crunch time for Gov. Chris Christie and the court
From: blog.nj.com
"N.J. Gov. Chris Christie The fun has begun."
NJ: Christie and unions poised to do battle over budget cuts
From: www.nj.com
"The radio ads started running last week.
"
NJ: N.J. farmers look into marijuana cultivation
From: www.nj.com
"A trade group is helping New Jersey farmers explore whether recently legalized medical marijuana could be a profitable cash crop, according to a report in The Daily Journal."
NM: Guns and booze don't mix, restaurant owners say
From: newmexicoindependent.com
"There are lots of reasons not to allow concealed guns in restaurants that serve beer and wine, restaurant owners and workers told the Independent Monday. "
NM: Legislature analysis -- Budget bill simmers on back burner
From: www.santafenewmexican.com
"So what did taxpayers get for the $4.87 million 30-day budget session of the state Legislature?
"
NM: NM foreclosures nearly triple since '07
From: albuquerque.bizjournals.com
"One in 12 New Mexico mortgages was delinquent at the end of 2009, and foreclosures have nearly tripled in two years, according to the Mortgage Bankers Association."
NV: Special session -- Mining possible vein for state revenue
From: www.lvrj.com
"On the eve of a legislative special session, Democratic and key Republican lawmakers focused on the mining industry as the biggest potential source of new revenue, up to $100 million, that could help close Nevada's budget gap and reduce cuts to education and health and human services."
NV: NV lawmakers question education cut numbers
From: www.nevadaappeal.com
"Lawmakers complained Monday that the governor's office was deceiving the public by saying the K-12 education cuts are just 2.4 percent."
NV: Foreclosures bring hurdles to getting accurate census count
From: www.lasvegassun.com
"Every person who isn't counted by the U.S. Census represents about a $900 loss for Nevada -- one reason why everyone needs to be counted, U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gary Locke said during a roundtable meeting Monday.
"
NV: Budget crunchtime -- Lawmakers set to tackle historic deficit
From: www.lasvegassun.com
"The 26th special session of the Nevada Legislature convenes today with the primary task of closing the state's $887 million budget deficit."
NV: Slashing of problem gambling earmark is more costly in long run, state is warned
From: www.lasvegassun.com
"A state proposal to eliminate government funding for problem gambling treatment, education and research will not only hurt the lives of compulsive gamblers and their families but will also cost the state by taxing its health care and criminal justice systems, treatment advocates warn."
NV: Gibbons, Sandoval spar over lease proposal, tax plan
From: www.lasvegassun.com
"Gov. Jim Gibbons attacked a plan being pushed by fellow Republicans Senate Minority Leader Bill Raggio and gubernatorial rival Brian Sandoval to have the state lease back its buildings in exchange for an up-front, immediate cash payment from private investors."
NV: The poll that pushed the political boundaries
From: www.lasvegassun.com
"Nevadans are meek, brutalized into submission by the Great Recession and a political culture dominated by powerful interests."
NV: Special session to cost taxpayers $50,000 per day
From: www.lasvegassun.com
"Opening day of the special session of the Legislature on Tuesday is expected to cost about $100,000."
NV: Lawmakers to convene over $900M budget mess
From: www.nevadaappeal.com
"Nevada lawmakers are heading back to the state Capitol, charged with the responsibility to plug a $900 million budget hole in a special legislative session."
NV: Legislators to vet plan to cite uninsured drivers
From: www.lvrj.com
"When Nevada lawmakers start their special session this week , they will ponder Gov. Jim Gibbons' proposal to bring in an out-of-state company to help nab and cite uninsured motorists.
"
NV: No new taxes, even on the wages of sin
From: www.lvrj.com
"The great state of Nevada may be desperate for cash, but not so desperate that it will tax pot or prostitution to make ends meet."
NY: State sales-tax hit
From: www.nypost.com
"Sales-tax collections tumbled 5.9 statewide in 2009 -- the sharpest drop in at least two decades -- Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli announced yesterday.
"
NY: OTB bailout nixed
From: www.nypost.com
"The state Assembly won't go along with the current bailout plan for the cash-strapped Off-Track-Betting Corp. -- which will run out money by the end of March, OTB Chairman Sandy Frucher reported yesterday.
"
NY: High-speed rail plans for New York take shape
From: www.democratandchronicle.com
"Having been largely shut out of federal high-speed rail funding, state transportation officials are turning their attention to a handful of rail projects that did win federal support — including the first tangible piece of the long-sought high-speed passenger rail corridor across upstate New York."
NY: Colleges adjust to decline in giving
From: www.democratandchronicle.com
"These hard economic times have made a college education more difficult in various ways — from students scrambling to find an affordable school to cash-strapped states cutting their funding of colleges."
NY: CSEA chief to seek national post
From: www.timesunion.com
"The longtime president of the state's largest public employees union said Monday he will seek a national post opening up this summer with the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees.
"
NY: View bleak for state parks
From: www.timesunion.com
"Eight state parks and historic sites in the Capital Region, including John Boyd Thacher State Park at the Helderberg Escarpment, would be closed this year to help narrow the cash-strapped state's budget deficit, according to plans released Friday.
"
NY: Great Appliance Swap Out extended
From: www.democratandchronicle.com
"If you couldn't get to an appliance store before Sunday and thought you missed out on a rebate for upgrading to an energy-efficient appliance, don't fret. The state extended its Great Appliance Swap Out, originally a two-week program slated to end on Sunday"
NY: Small businesses still suffering
From: www.buffalonews.com
"Dan Hensel is the kind of business owner the federal government is counting on to revive the moribund economy."
NY: NYRA brass in the chips
From: www.timesunion.com
"As it looks to the state for millions of dollars to meet its obligations, the New York Racing Association's trustees are paying NYRA's top executive $460,000 -- but they'd rather keep that confidential.
"
OH: Strickland coming to Hamilton
From: www.daytondailynews.com
"HAMILTON, Ohio -- Hamilton's BizTech Center is the perfect example of how Gov. Ted Strickland said he wants to grow small business in Ohio. That's why he'll be making a stop there Wednesday to talk more about his growth initiatives."
OH: Make tough decisions now for better future, Ohio urged
From: www.toledoblade.com
"Lots of heads were nodding yesterday as a Washington-based think tank repeated what many had heard before: Ohio must make difficult decisions now to position itself for a new post-recession world economy."
OH: Ohio employers saying no to smokers to reduce costs
From: www.daytondailynews.com
"Last week, Summa Health Systems, the Akron area's largest employer, became the latest company in the state to announce a nicotine-free hiring policy, joining among others the Cleveland Clinic, Medical Mutual of Ohio, Scotts Miracle-Gro in Marysville and USI financial services in Cincinnati."
OH: Federal housing aid won't help Ohio
From: www.dispatch.com
"WASHINGTON -- Even though Ohio has ranked among the nation's leaders in foreclosures for years, the state will not qualify for assistance under a new $1.5 billion plan outlined yesterday by President Barack Obama. "
OH: Chicago canal fight centers on Asian carp
From: www.dispatch.com
"Nobody really knows what would happen to native fish if invasive Asian carp become established in the Great Lakes. Nor does anyone want to find out."
OH: Law slows efforts to control chemical used by dry cleaners
From: www.dispatch.com
"When it comes to dry cleaning, nothing else gets stains out like a chemical called perchloroethylene, or "perc," for short."
OH: Study has 39 steps to renew Ohio
From: www.dispatch.com
"Ohio can claw its way out of recession and back to prosperity by refocusing on the strength of its cities, reshaping government and education, and making better use of federal funds and programs, a study by the Brookings Institution concludes."
OR: Severance pay can help start new businesses
From: www.statesmanjournal.com
"Oregon workers can deduct severance pay from income taxes if invested in a new or existing small business under a bill headed for Gov. Ted Kulongoski."
OR: Bill would limit credit checks by some Oregon employers
From: www.oregonlive.com
"Oregonians who are having trouble landing jobs because of their bad credit histories may get some relief from a bill that passed its final legislative hurdle Monday."
OR: Legislature has lots of 'jobs bills' but it's unclear how many real jobs will follow
From: www.oregonlive.com
"Five words most often heard this month at Oregon's Capitol: "This is a jobs bill." - Five words most often heard this month at Oregon's Capitol: "This is a jobs bill." "
OR: Oregon startups find success -- some find it elsewhere
From: www.oregonlive.com
"Oregon's struggles at nurturing startups are well-known and well-documented. Entrepreneurs complain they can't find enough talented executives here, or enough financial backing, and so they go elsewhere. "
OR: Senate holds rare Saturday session, passes tax break for some manufactured home owners
From: www.oregonlive.com
"Pressing to finish its special February meeting by the end of this week, the Oregon Senate held a rare Saturday floor session. "
PA: Beer laws in Pa. a Prohibition hangover
From: www.philly.com
"The law was born out of fear of the open saloon: that dark, evil place where men drank away paychecks, trafficked in stolen goods, and engaged in unspeakable acts of violence and debauchery.
"
PA: Ex-aide testifies it would be 'nuts' to think Veon was out of loop
From: www.pittsburghlive.com
"It would be "nuts" to think ex-House Democratic Whip Mike Veon didn't know his state-paid staff actively participated in political campaigning, a former Veon aide told a jury Monday."
PA: Siemens to refund $468,750 to state
From: www.post-gazette.com
"Siemens Energy Inc. will pay the state $468,750 as part of an arrangement to return government funds granted almost a decade ago when the company decided to build a stationary fuel cell manufacturing plant in Munhall.
"
PA: DEP plans to boost numbers of drilling inspectors
From: www.post-gazette.com
"The number of drilling inspectors at the state Department of Environmental Protection would increase by more than 50 percent in the next fiscal year.
"
PA: State's heavyweight political clout growing thin
From: www.pittsburghlive.com
"Pennsylvania soon may scrape the bottom of the federal pork barrel."
PA: Pa. to release money early for towns' snow removal
From: www.post-gazette.com
"Pennsylvania will release $308 million in liquid fuels payments a month early to help local communities pay for snow removal costs, Gov. Ed Rendell announced this morning.
"
PA: Ps. state universities consider eliminating some majors
From: www.post-gazette.com
"Lock Haven University wants to build a classroom and research center that will bring to campus new science majors, including aspiring chemists.
"
PA: Gas well foes vow to fight Rendell
From: www.post-gazette.com
"A caucus of 37 "green dog" and "hunting dog" legislators is barking mad about a Rendell administration budget proposal that would seek to raise $180 million by leasing more state forest land for Marcellus shale gas well drilling.
"
RI: Carcieri plan offers employer $2,000 credit
From: www.projo.com
"Companies that hire a worker would get a $2,000 tax credit under a proposal that Rhode Island lawmakers will debate this week."
SC: State forming own stimulus package
From: www.postandcourier.com
"The state's top lawmakers and business leaders are putting together South Carolina's own version of a stimulus package -- only without the money. Instead, the so-called Economic Development Competitiveness Act aims to make it easier for expanding businesses to use state incentives, phases out the state's corporate income tax and improves the reward for employers who create new jobs."
SC: Lawmakers revisiting payday lending
From: www.thestate.com
"Frustrated senators may get another crack at passing airtight payday lending reform this week. Two Spartanburg senators with different views on the proposed new overhaul both are pushing the legislation."
SC: Corporate income tax break has friends, foes
From: www.postandcourier.com
"The most costly piece of the proposed Economic Development Competitiveness Act is the gradual elimination of the state's corporate income tax, a move that would strip hundreds of millions of dollars from already depleted state coffers and fail to provide any relief to more than 95 percent of the state's businesses."
SC: Has stimulus plan benefited S.C.?
From: www.thestate.com
"Two seasoned legislators from neighboring congressional districts, each highly regarded in his own party. And, last week, a year after the $787 billion federal stimulus was passed by Congress and signed into law by the president, both men were telling Midlands audiences what they thought of the plan."
SD: Appliance rebate program opens March 1
From: www.argusleader.com
"A rebate program to encourage replacement of old, inefficient appliances will begin March 1 in South Dakota."
SD: Credit rules worry S.D. banks
From: www.argusleader.com
"You won't notice the difference when you swipe your card to make a purchase Monday, but your personal credit - and the industry that provides it to you - will be operating under new rules, almost a year in the making."
TN: Senior driving course bill goes to Gov. Bredesen
From: www.tennessean.com
"Legislation that would give senior drivers in Tennessee a discount on their insurance for taking an online driving course is headed to Gov. Phil Bredesen for his consideration."
TN: Nashville lawmakers want state fair to stay
From: www.tennessean.com
"The state legislature doesn't have any decision-making power concerning the future of a state fair in Nashville, but some Davidson County lawmakers said Monday that they hoped the 103-year-old event would stay in Tennessee's capital city."
TN: Tennessee farms, tourism find silver lining together
From: www.tennessean.com
"In a tough year for Tennessee's state budget, the departments of tourism and agriculture have found a mutual silver lining: a boomlet in agricultural tourism."
TN: Gubernatorial field focus on job growth and spending cuts
From: www.timesfreepress.com
"Tennessee's gubernatorial candidates say that "growing" jobs -- not taxes -- as well as slashing state spending top their plans on how to manage state government in the wake of the Great Recession."
TN: Ruling advises care on cameras
From: www.timesfreepress.com
"Tennessee lawmakers legally can require that contracts between cities and traffic-camera surveillance companies comply with future statutory changes, but any changes must be viewed as "reasonable," State Attorney General Bob Cooper said in a new legal opinion."
TX: Career-oriented courses at Texas schools get with the times
From: www.dallasnews.com
"Movies are in 3-D, accountants who track fraud are in demand and farmers use computers to measure moisture in the soil. While the times have changed, high school career classes were much the same, sometimes emphasizing outdated skills."
US: Recession tightens grip on state tax revenues
From: www.nytimes.com
"The recession can now claim another troublesome record: state tax collections shrank at the end of 2009 for a fifth consecutive quarter, the longest period of continuing state revenue declines since at least the Great Depression, according to a new report."
US: Obama aid package to help with home foreclosures
From: www.csmonitor.com
"SAN FRANCISCO -- The five states where the housing crisis has taken the biggest toll will receive part of a $1.5 billion federal aid package intended to slow the tide of home foreclosures, the Obama administration announced Friday."
US: States have not yet seen the worst of economic times, governors at meeting say
From: www.nytimes.com
"WASHINGTON — Although the national economy has begun to bounce back, governors said Saturday that the worst was yet to come at the state level, where revenues are still falling short of projections."
US: Millions of unemployed face years without jobs
From: www.nytimes.com
"BUENA PARK, Calif. — Even as the American economy shows tentative signs of a rebound, the human toll of the recession continues to mount, with millions of Americans remaining out of work, out of savings and nearing the end of their unemployment benefits. "
US: With the Senate set to vote on jobs bill, governors say they still need assistance
From: www.nytimes.com
"WASHINGTON — With the Senate poised to take a first test vote on a jobs bill, governors said Sunday that they still needed assistance from the federal government but urged Congress to focus more on creating jobs in the private sector."
UT: Guv blocks two depleted uranium shipments
From: www.sltrib.com
"Utah Gov. Gary Herbert declared a "monumental win" Monday, after the U.S. Department of Energy scrapped plans to send more trainloads of depleted uranium to Utah so the state has time to determine whether the waste belongs here. "
UT: Utah's health care compromise
From: www.sltrib.com
"Utah lawmakers this year have spared no energy trumpeting their dislike for federal health reform, passing bills asserting states' right to govern themselves. "
UT: Utah Legislature -- Utahns favor cuts, increasing some taxes
From: www.deseretnews.com
"Utahns want lawmakers to balance a $700 million budget shortfall by both cutting state programs and raising taxes or fees, a new Deseret News/KSL-TV poll shows."
UT: Lawmaker wants more money for Jordan district
From: www.sltrib.com
"The Jordan School District is hurting, and at least one lawmaker wants the Canyons School District to help heal its wounds. "
VA: Va. Senate OKs coast drilling royalties for roads
From: hamptonroads.com
"Virginia's Senate approved Monday a House bill that would dedicate potential profits from future offshore drilling to transportation needs."
VA: Sand men finish $2.4M dredge and sand replenishment project
From: hamptonroads.com
"VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. -- DeWayne Ward has never visited Virginia Beach as a tourist. He doesn't care much for beaches, in fact. Still, for a few months this past fall and winter he helped ensure that the city, renowned for its sandy shores, lived up to its name."
VT: Beneficial business takes shape in Vermont
From: www.burlingtonfreepress.com
"The goal of for-profit companies is, well, to make profit. Legislation has been introduced in Montpelier that would allow companies to exist for other reasons — providing a social good for the community while returning gains to investors. Such companies would register as a "beneficial corporation." "
VT: Is Vermont Yankee tarnishing the 'Vermont brand'?
From: www.burlingtonfreepress.com
"The "Vermont brand" is prized by the state and its businesses as an assurance of quality and as a tourism lure, beckoning city dwellers to the untarnished outdoors. Cheddar cheese, maple syrup and craft beer are just a few of the products that rely on bucolic, pristine images of Vermont to attract customers. "
VT: Colonial Williamsburg could benefit from Vt. author's estate
From: hamptonroads.com
"MARLBORO, Vt. -- When author Tasha Tudor's ashes were finally buried, it wasn't in one place. Her bickering survivors couldn't agree on when, where and how, so a judge ordered her cremated remains divided in half. "
WA: End to tanker saga may be inching closer – or not
From: www.theolympian.com
"WASHINGTON -- When the Air Force formally requests bids as early as this week for a $35 billion contract for new aerial refueling tankers, it may be the beginning of the end in the nearly decade-long effort to replace the current fleet of Cold War-era planes. "
WA: Gregoire, 8 other governors back Boeing for tanker bid
From: seattletimes.nwsource.com
"WASHINGTON -- The highly politicized wrangling over the $35 billion Air Force tanker deal reached a new pitch Monday when the governors of Washington and eight other states joined to demand the Pentagon award the contract to Boeing."
WI: Stage urges homeowners to consider flood insurance
From: www.jsonline.com
"After serious flooding in Wisconsin during two of the past three years, including floods that caused a record $765 million in damage in June 2008, state officials already are wary of the coming spring thaw and rains."
WV: Fight brews over beer tax hike
From: www.wvgazette.com
"A public hearing Monday on a proposed increase in the state beer tax primarily pitted representatives of drug and alcohol rehabilitation centers against beer distributors and retailers."
WV: Expired terms abound
From: www.wvgazette.com
"There are more than 100 people serving on 30-some state boards and commissions whose terms of office have expired -- including some whose terms expired as long as seven to eight years ago."
WV: Staff urges W.Va. PSC to reject phone deal
From: hosted.ap.org
"The West Virginia Public Service Commission's staff and its consumer division say an application by Frontier Communications to buy Verizon's landlines in the state should be rejected."
WV: W.Va. OSHA lacks funding, jurisdiction
From: www.wvgazette.com
"State workplace safety inspectors conducted "63 proactive investigations" between August 1990 and August 1995, said John Thompson, a field organizer for West Virginia Public Workers Union UE Local 170, based in Charleston. But since then, the West Virginia Occupational Safety and Health Administration has initiated no routine safety inspections of state offices and other workplaces."
WY: Economist tells Wyo bankers and legislators "It's not as bad as you think"
From: thewyonews.net
"Using his book as the title of his speech to the Wyoming Banker's Association's legislative dinner, It's Not as Bad as You Think, Brian Wesbury, ranked as one of the top economic forecasters by the Wall Street Journal and USA Today, said while the financial future may be hard to predict, it will ultimately be profitable over the long haul."
WY: 'A lot of uncertainty'
From: www.trib.com
"When the House and Senate begin work on the nearly $3 billion budget for the 2011-2012 fiscal years this week, legislators will be pressed to add money for school construction and local governments."
WY: 'Bashing the feds'
From: www.trib.com
"A theme has emerged in Wyoming's gubernatorial race that may have all candidates gleefully bashing the federal government."
WY: Still pounding away
From: www.trib.com
"ROCK SPRINGS, Wy. -- Any legislative relief for the "Tree Street" residents whose homes were damaged by a controversial mine subsidence project in 2007 will come in the form of a budget amendment, rather than a bill, southwest Wyoming lawmakers say."
WY: In Wyoming, debate swirls on taxing wind industry
From: www.nytimes.com
"With currents of powerful wind gusts whipping across its plains and plateaus, Wyoming has become a new frontier for the wind industry — the latest energy development for a state that only recently experienced a natural gas boom."
Lukewarm about Lansing
From: www.stateline.org
"Governor Jennifer Granholm’s 2006 State of the State address was an adventure in optimism. “In five years,” she said, “you’re going to be blown away by the strength and diversity of Michigan’s transformed economy.” The five years are almost up, and to most Michigan residents, the only things blowing away are jobs, mortgages and income.
Now, the race to succeed Granholm has begun. But the word race is a misnomer in this case. Prospective candidates are asking themselves a reasonable question — “Why would anyone want to be governor of Michigan at this point?” — and coming up dry. Despite the best efforts of the state’s political establishment, promising candidates have been hard to come by."
Visit the Stateline.org Economy & Business Page
From: www.stateline.org
"Governor Jennifer Granholm’s 2006 State of the State address was an adventure in optimism. “In five years,” she said, “you’re going to be blown away by the strength and diversity of Michigan’s transformed economy.” The five years are almost up, and to most Michigan residents, the only things blowing away are jobs, mortgages and income.
Now, the race to succeed Granholm has begun. But the word race is a misnomer in this case. Prospective candidates are asking themselves a reasonable question — “Why would anyone want to be governor of Michigan at this point?” — and coming up dry. Despite the best efforts of the state’s political establishment, promising candidates have been hard to come by."
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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.
