AK: Alaska Permanent Fund simplifies its investments
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Alaska Permanent Fund will contain fewer individual investment portfolios and more index funds, after its stock portfolio was restructured Tuesday to begin implementing a cutting-edge new investment strategy that was first adopted last summer.
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AK: Alaskans near nation's top in consumer fraud complaints
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A newly released report by the Federal Trade Commission shows that Alaskans rank sixth in the nation for filing fraud complaints, but are nearly at the bottom of the list when it comes to identity-theft complaints.
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AK: Gas pipeline no sure state revenue bet
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Many Alaskans think a natural gas pipeline to the Lower 48 would give the state new riches in the form of taxes and royalties.
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AK: Legislature hears conflicting statements about oil taxes
From: feeds.stateline.org
"In the view of the Parnell administration, the increase in oil taxes approved by lawmakers in 2007 has not stymied oil industry investment in Alaska and just needs minor tweaks.
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AK: Non-profit health insurance extended to private employers
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Amid spiraling health care costs, Alaska's small businesses have a new health insurance option this year.
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AK: Parnell's $100 million infrastructure target likely to be shot down
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Sean Parnell's $100 million deferred maintenance proposal is unlikely to pass the Legislature by next week's target date, and his administration is partly to blame, a Republican state lawmaker said Monday.
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AK: College students lobby Capitol for need-based aid
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Students from University of Alaska Southeast and elsewhere in Alaska praised Gov. Sean Parnell's desire to see more Alaskans attend college, but said the way to do that was not with his Governor's Performance Scholarships but instead with help for needy students.
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AL: Alabama state Sen. Lowell Barron says he'll keep Senate from voting on bingo bill this week
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The chairman of the Alabama Senate's Rules Committee says he won't put electronic bingo legislation on the Senate's work agenda for Thursday.
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AL: Report -- 5 percent pull out of tuition program
From: feeds.stateline.org
"About 5 percent of the families par ticipating in Alabama's prepaid college tuition plan have with drawn their money since the program ran into financial problems and its ability to pay full college costs became doubtful.
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AL: In Washington, D.C., Mobile officials disappointed by tanker package
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WASHINGTON -- As they made the rounds on Capitol Hill today, Mobile-area officials voiced frustration and anger at the U.S. Air Force's final bid package for an aerial refueling tanker.
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AL: Pentagon releases new RFP guidelines for air tanker
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Pentagon on Wednesday reopened bidding on a potential $40 billion contract to assemble a new fleet of aerial refueling tankers for the U.S. Air Force. But in the latest plot twist in a 10-year tanker saga, the Air Force may find only a single contractor willing to bid on one of the richest defense deals in U.S. history.
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AL: Riley vs. rally -- Bingo supporters shout at governor during anti-gambling event
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Supporters of allowing gambling in select Alabama counties shouted down Gov. Bob Riley, his wife and preachers as they tried to speak against gambling during a confrontational and rowdy rally at the State House on Tuesday.
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AL: Report -- Etowah County DA seeks state's help in bingo case
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Etowah County District Attorney Jimmie Harp has asked that John Tyson, the commander of the Governor's Task Force on Illegal Gambling, be added as a party to a lawsuit over bingo machines in the county, according to The Gadsden Times.
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AL: Alabama House approves further controls on cold medicine sales
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Alabama House has taken another step to make it harder for methamphetamine producers to get the ingredients they need by buying common cold medicines, like Sudafed.
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AL: House OKs bill to encourage employers to hire unemployed
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Alabama House has passed a bill sponsored by a Republican candidate for governor that's designed to get state resi dents off unemployment rolls.
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AZ: Bankrupt Bashas' rejects Albertsons' bid
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Bankrupt Arizona grocery chain Bashas' Inc. has rejected a buyout offer of at least $260 million from rival Albertsons.
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AZ: Housing-price recovery hits new milestone
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Valley's epic home-price slide reached another recovery milestone in January, the first month in nearly three years with a single-digit annual rate of decline, according to preliminary data from Arizona State University's Repeat Sales Index.
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AZ: Arizona banking industry continues to struggle
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Economic recovery is a ways off for Arizona's beleaguered banking industry. Stung by more bad loans, Arizona-based banks continue to suffer from rising delinquencies, declining capital and poor earnings.
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AZ: House panel opposes energy mandate
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Ignoring threats by a company to pack up and leave, a House panel voted late Tuesday to overturn the renewable energy mandate on utilities by the Arizona Corporation Commission.
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AZ: Bill threatens planned solar plant in Goodyear
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The governor last month touted a solar-panel manufacturer's plan to open its first U.S. plant in Goodyear, but on Tuesday the company warned it could pull those plans if a bill impacting renewable energy is passed.
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AZ: Political Insider -- Lawmakers get no-tax reminder
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Grover Norquist, keeper of the no-tax-hike pledge, has stepped up to the plate in the debate over how to keep the Chicago Cubs in their Mesa spring-training home.
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AZ: Legislator, mayor struck by opposition to Cubs plan
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Mesa Mayor Scott Smith and a key Arizona legislator say they were taken by surprise at the level of opposition to a plan to keep the Chicago Cubs from moving their spring-training operations to Florida and blamed the reaction on a lack of understanding about what the bill actually does.
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CA: Groups say CalPERS, CalSTRS flout Iran divestment law
From: feeds.stateline.org
"More than two years after California required the sale of investments in foreign companies operating in Iran's defense and energy industries, the state's biggest public pension fund still hasn't sold any of its $900 million in holdings in those firms.
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CA: Lawmakers accuse WellPoint, parent company of Anthem Blue Cross, of profiteering
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Congressional Democrats on Wednesday accused the parent company of Anthem Blue Cross of putting profits ahead of policyholders, saying the giant insurer padded its proposed rates while lavishing generous salaries and benefits on top executives.
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CA: Study -- High-speed rail would drain passengers from Bay Area airports
From: feeds.stateline.org
"California's high-speed trains — loaded with the potential for cheaper fares and peaceful trips — could steal about 6 million passengers each year from the three Bay Area airports combined, new estimates show.
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CA: Pentagon launches contest for aerial tanker contract
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Pentagon on Wednesday officially launched a competition to replace its aging, aerial refueling tankers. It released the requirements needed to fulfill a contract potentially worth $35 billion.
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CA: Westlands district quits state water association
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Westlands Water District, the powerful farm irrigation agency in the San Joaquin Valley, has quit its membership in a leading statewide water association.
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CA: California water diversion plan 'a work in progress,' Feinstein says
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WASHINGTON – Democratic Sen. Dianne Feinstein's controversial bid to divert more water to San Joaquin Valley farms has prompted furious maneuvering but no agreement.
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CA: High court rules for Hertz in California case
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WASHINGTON — The U.S. Supreme Court on Tuesday overturned a lower court ruling that said Hertz Corp. had to face a California class-action lawsuit in state court instead of federal court, a potentially important procedural ruling for the business community.
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CA: Lehman's ghost haunts California
From: feeds.stateline.org
"SAN MATEO, Calif. — Little more than a year after the worst of the financial panic, Wall Street is bouncing back. But in this county just south of San Francisco, pain from the financial system's near-collapse is still felt every day.
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CA: California campaign spending provides glimpse of what's to come for nation
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The upcoming congressional elections offer the first opportunity for corporations to spend freely on federal campaigns since the U.S. Supreme Court rolled back key restrictions last month. California provides a glimpse of what's to come.
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CA: Anthem Blue Cross executives grilled at state Capitol
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Anthem Blue Cross executives, under intense questioning by the state Assembly's Health Committee on Tuesday, defended the company's decision to raise premiums by as much as 39 percent on hundreds of thousands of Californians.
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CA: California campaign spending provides glimpse of what's to come for nation
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The upcoming congressional elections offer the first opportunity for corporations to spend freely on federal campaigns since the U.S. Supreme Court rolled back key restrictions last month. California provides a glimpse of what's to come."
CA: Proposed rules could make smog check less expensive and time-consuming for most motorists
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Millions of California motorists could soon be saying so long to the iconic tailpipe test. Quicker and cheaper smog checks are being considered under a proposal unveiled Tuesday by state regulators.
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CA: Can Danny Glover save NUMMI from closing its doors?
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Actor Danny Glover has played a hero on the big screen, but can he save the soon-to-be shuttered NUMMI plant from its impending closure? State Treasurer Bill Lockyer hopes so.
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CO: Ritter signs bills to end tax breaks, help balance budget
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Thousands of businesses will be getting letters over the next few days from the Colorado Department of Revenue with an important message: Sales of items ranging from soda to farm pesticide are no longer tax-free starting as soon as Monday.
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CO: Colorado regulators to examine Anthem Blue Cross amid rate-hike complaints
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Colorado will be examined by the Colorado Division of Insurance amid a rise in consumer complaints about the health insurer's rate hikes, the agency said Wednesday.
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CO: FDIC -- Colorado bank lending fell 11% in 2009
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Colorado bank lending plunged nearly 11 percent in 2009, even faster than the 7.4 percent drop for all U.S. banks, according to new data from the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. (FDIC).
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CO: Ritter signs 9 bills blocking business tax breaks
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Colorado Gov. Bill Ritter signed into law Wednesday nine bills that suspend or eliminate various tax exemptions for business, despite opposition from many state business operators and groups.
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CO: Beefed up maternity health insurance bill sails through the House
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Lawmakers Monday passed a bill in the Colorado House that would require health insurance companies to include prenatal and birth control in all plans offered to women on the individual health care market.
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CO: Colorado's high court rejects ban on campaign contributions
From: feeds.stateline.org
"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.
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CO: Colorado Senate president pans Pinnacol separation bid
From: feeds.stateline.org
"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.
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CO: New tax exemption clears panel on a Democrat's vote
From: feeds.stateline.org
"One week after lawmakers eliminated a slew of tax exemptions, a House committee on Tuesday approved a new one — thanks to a Democratic lawmaker's vote.
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CT: Rell urges microlending
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. M. Jodi Rell told a business audience Wednesday that the state should concentrate on "microloans" of $10,000 to $75,000 as part of her $100 million small-business initiative.
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CT: Blumenthal backs auto body shops in fight against The Hartford's appraisal practices
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Attorney General Richard Blumenthal is seeking to support in court a push by auto body repair shop owners in Connecticut against the appraisal practices by a major property casualty insurer.
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CT: Union president negotiating with Shaw's on severance packages
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The president of United Food and Commercial Workers Local 371 is taking a break from negotiations with Stop & Shop today as he tries to save jobs and arrange severance packages for unionized Shaw's workers who will be displaced.
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CT: Bernie's employees say company taking money out of their 401(k)
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Bernie's employees are angry that money has been deducted from their 401(k) accounts to pay the cost of winding down the bankrupt company's plan.
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CT: Study -- 15 percent of mid-, senior-level job seekers left state for work in 2009
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Fifteen percent of mid- to senior-level job seekers in Connecticut had to leave the state last year for work, according to a study by Right Management, the career management service of Manpower.
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CT: Pratt appeal tells union -- We're playing rough
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Pratt & Whitney's appeal of a federal court order blocking its plans to lay off most of 1,000 Connecticut workers by 2011 represents more than a short-term tactic, regardless of the outcome.
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CT: Major hearing Tuesday on Keno -- Controversial proposal by Gov. Rell; concerns by two tribes over compact
From: feeds.stateline.org
"One of the most controversial issues of the legislative session is Republican Gov. M. Jodi Rell's proposal to legalize the Keno electronic gambling game.
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CT: Democrats push their jobs bill at Meriden Cafe; small business owners say they could use a little help
From: feeds.stateline.org
"MERIDEN, Conn. -- Democratic leaders came to Paul's Courtyard Cafe on West Main Street today to try to build support for a bill that would help small businesses throughout the state.
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CT: Bernie's owner trying to revive Manchester store amid bankruptcy proceedings
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Even as liquidators complete the job of closing down the Bernie's chain, the owner is planning to buy back the name and reopen the Manchester location, sources inside and outside the company said Tuesday.
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CT: Pratt & Whitney to cut jobs, appeal order to keep plants open
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The celebration was short-lived: Less than three weeks after workers at Pratt & Whitney won a momentous federal court case against the company — hailing their lawyer as a "knight in shining armor" — they're again struggling to stave off layoffs and facing a new legal challenge.
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FL: State delays bond sale for Hurricane Wilma claims
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Fears of insurance fraud prompted state officials Wednesday to delay selling $710 million in bonds to pay new and reopened claims by homeowners dating to Hurricane Wilma in 2005.
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FL: Audit -- Homestead redevelopment agency squandered millions
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A Homestead redevelopment agency squandered millions of taxpayer dollars over the past five years with little or nothing to show for it, a new county audit has found.
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FL: Mayor -- County won't bail out Jackson
From: feeds.stateline.org
"While the county mayor Wednesday rejected ``a cash bailout at Jackson,'' the public health system's chief executive said she is working hard to finalize the details of a restructuring plan to lessen the $229 million loss anticipated for this fiscal year.
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FL: Death reopens killer-whale debate
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Three years ago, Russ Rector, a Fort Lauderdale dolphin trainer turned marine mammal activist, said he wrote SeaWorld a letter warning it was pushing its show mammals too hard to wow audiences, thereby inviting attacks on trainers.
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FL: Future Florida House speaker struggling financially
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A top Republican selected Tuesday as the future speaker of the Florida House can't get his own financial house in order.
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FL: Bill would make 35,000 state workers pony up for health insurance
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Two House members said today they will sponsor legislation in the coming legislative session to make all state employees pay for health insurance -- including themselves.
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FL: Bills would allow property insurers to raise rates in Florida
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Edsel Hulse, a veteran who lives in Hollywood, said he's expecting his Citizens Property Insurance Corp. windstorm insurance policy premium to increase this year because state legislators in 2009 approved allowing the insurer to boost premiums by up to 10 percent annually. But he's also worried that may not be the last of it.
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FL: Blame high unemployment as Florida's consumer confidence falls in February
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Well that didn't last long. After a big jump in January, Florida's consumer confidence level tumbled in February.
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FL: Future Florida House speaker struggling financially
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A top Republican selected Tuesday as the future speaker of the Florida House can't get his own financial house in order."
GA: Lawmakers consider fee hikes
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Saying they're sticking to conservative principles and resisting tax increases, legislators asked state agencies Wednesday to consider bumping up fees to limit budget cuts.
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GA: 28% of mortgages underwater in Georgia
From: feeds.stateline.org
"More than 441,500, or 28 percent, of all residential properties with mortgages in Georgia, were in negative equity at the end of the fourth quarter, according to a new report.
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GA: Report -- Georgia should add jobs in 2011
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Georgia's run of job losses -- now in its third year -- will finally end with the return of modest employment growth next year, according to Georgia State University's Economic Forecasting Center.
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GA: Tax forms, other papers found at Smyrna recycling center
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Governor's Office of Consumer Affairs is investigating the dumping of boxes of personal information -- W-2 forms, bankruptcy files and old checks -- into a bin at the Smyrna Recycling Center.
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GA: State, feds resist their own stormwater rules
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Decades after the state imposed storm water rules on local governments in metro Atlanta, it has yet to set such rules for its own highways, university campuses and other properties.
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GA: Private support sought for Civil War anniversary events
From: feeds.stateline.org
"John Culpepper went on a reconnaissance mission to Atlanta earlier this month, looking for money to promote Civil War tourism in Northwest Georgia. He came back with his rucksack empty.
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GA: Transportation funding bill prompts praise and concerns
From: feeds.stateline.org
"On Wednesday, Gov. Sonny Perdue's transportation funding proposal -- a bill to put a project list and penny sales tax to voters in a referendum -- is scheduled to get its first official hearing at the Capitol.
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HI: Senators kill fowl bill
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State senators have killed a measure that would have banned foie gras, a popular delicacy in French cuisine.
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HI: Hawaii's economy may start slow recovery this year, state says
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Hawai'i's economic difficulties may be abating, with the state saying there are signs that certain sectors may hit bottom this year and start a slow recovery from the downturn.
"
HI: UPW Unit 1 to get furloughs
From: feeds.stateline.org
"About 9,000 blue-collar government workers would get work furloughs amounting to an 8 percent or 9 percent pay cut under an agreement reached between United Public Workers Unit 1 and the four county mayors.
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HI: Finance committee tries to find alternatives
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Lawmakers looking to close a $1.23 billion hole in the state budget decided to look at sources other than the four counties' share of the hotel room tax.
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HI: Gov blasts HSTA over furloughs
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Linda Lingle has accused the Hawaii State Teachers Association of focusing more on money than on Hawaii's students when it chose to file a labor complaint against the administration rather than ending public school furloughs.
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HI: Bad times, quicker commutes
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A dip in tourism and a spike in unemployment translate to less traffic congestion on Honolulu's roadways, according to a recent study.
"
IA: Increasing number of bad loans plagues Iowa banks
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Banks' troubles, in the form of mounting bad loans, are expected to continue this year, officials predicted Tuesday as they analyzed the results of a difficult 2009.
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IA: Hit squad, Iowa bank's credit cards are linked, police in Dubai say
From: feeds.stateline.org
"An Iowa bank found itself in the middle of international intrigue Wednesday when police revealed that a Middle Eastern hit squad was armed with its credit cards.
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IA: New director named for Iowa state's film office
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Iowa Department of Economic Development announced a new director Tuesday for the state film office, which has been the target of a criminal investigation.
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IA: Clinton, Iowa, plans for Thomson federal prison opening
From: feeds.stateline.org
"CLINTON, Iowa -- The proposed sale of the nearby Thomson (Ill.) Correctional Center to the federal government for use a federal prison is expected to bring 3,800 jobs to the area in the first four years.
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IA: Culver -- Iowa job-creation efforts won't 'skip a beat'
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Chet Culver predicted Tuesday that Iowa's job-creation efforts won't "skip a beat" despite three more top-echelon officials leaving the state Department of Economic Development in the wake of the film tax credit scandal.
"
ID: Utah, Idaho get $10M to study kids' health issues
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Health departments in Utah and Idaho will use a $10 million federal grant to look for ways to improve health care for children.
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ID: Gov. Butch Otter says he loses sleep over budget
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Highlights from Gov. Butch Otter's responses:
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ID: Dan Popkey -- Pension blowup threatens short session for Idaho Legislature
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Things were supposed to be different this year. Facing a budget crisis and united against raising taxes, Republicans running the Idaho House and Senate would set aside bad blood built over a decade and get the job done. Swiftly.
"
ID: URA bills take center stage at Legislature
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Urban renewal agencies could face drastic changes giving both a stronger voice to the public and a say to affected tax districts, under proposed legislation this session.
"
ID: Teacher raises raise eyebrows
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Less than a week before the Joint Finance-Appropriations Committee will set the fiscal year 2011 budget for public schools, a report showing many school administrators and teachers received raises this year is also raising some eyebrows.
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ID: University of Idaho discussing a 12% fee hike for students next year
From: feeds.stateline.org
"MOSCOW, Idaho — The University of Idaho plan for 2010-11 is the highest initial fee proposal of the state's four-year colleges and universities.
"
ID: Mortgage modifications No. 1 gripe of consumers to Idaho AG
From: feeds.stateline.org
"As foreclosures in Idaho rose in 2009, so did the number of complaints from residents seeking mortgage loan modifications.
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ID: Idaho Power profits rise 30%
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Idaho Power's year-end net income hit $122.5 million in 2009, up from $94.1 million in 2008.
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ID: Idaho retirees will get 1% raise after all
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Members of the Public Employee Retirement System of Idaho were scheduled to receive a cost of living adjustment next month, but the Idaho House said no last week.
"
ID: Legislators weigh slate of URA changes
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Urban renewal agencies face potentially sweeping changes under seven different pieces of proposed legislation, which are primarily aimed at boosting public involvement and fixing the perception that urban renewal agencies lack accountability.
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ID: House committee recommends hunter privacy
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Some legislators believe hunters deserve a little more privacy than what they get in their duck blinds and camouflage outfits.
"
IL: Statewide broadband gets a boost
From: feeds.stateline.org
"CARBONDALE, Ill. -- A new website launched Wednesday by Connect Illinois offers users new tools that they hope will narrow the digital divide.
"
IL: Madigan legislation to study McPier passes House
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Speaker Michael Madigan today easily pushed through the House a measure to study how to improve the financial position and efficiency of the agency overseeing McCormick Place and Navy Pier.
"
IL: General Growth plans split in Ch. 11 exit
From: feeds.stateline.org
"General Growth Properties Inc. said it plans to split itself into two companies with the help of $2.625 billion in funding from Brookfield Asset Management Inc., setting off a bidding war for the nation's second largest mall operator.
"
IL: Commonwealth Edison seeking another rate hike
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Chicago utility, a unit of Exelon Corp., plans to file with the Illinois Commerce Commission for a rate hike in the second or third quarter, according to an investor presentation by Exelon Executive Vice-president William Von Hoene at a Feb. 3 investor conference in New York.
"
IL: Wineries -- Two cents not too much to ask
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Proposed legislation to help further the development of the Illinois wine industry has the potential to put Illinois at the forefront of the wine industry, but some officials feel the measure could take desperately needed funding from established programs.
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IL: Daley floats privatization of McCormick Place
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Mayor Richard M. Daley floated the idea of privatization at McCormick Place on Monday night, dramatically shifting the discussion of how to overhaul the city's trade show business.
"
IL: Would Motorola departure burst Chicago's tech bubble?
From: feeds.stateline.org
"City's blossoming tech scene would be stifled if the mobile phone business heads to Silicon Valley as its CEO has hinted.
"
IN: Land-based casinos dead
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gary's delegates in the Indiana General Assembly worked until the gavel fell Wednesday to sell their colleagues on a land-based casino for their hometown.
"
IN: Whirlpool red-flags protest
From: feeds.stateline.org
"National organized labor leaders will join local unions Friday for a rally to protest the closing of Evansville's Whirlpool plant, even as plant officials tried to discourage workers from taking part.
"
IN: State-based banks cut lending 10% in '09
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Indiana banks scaled back loans last year by $5.5 billion as the recession dragged on and loan problems piled up.
"
IN: WellPoint officials defend proposed rate increases
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WASHINGTON -- Lawmakers pressed insurance giant WellPoint on Wednesday to justify its profits and corporate travel while seeking double-digit percentage increases in premiums on individual policies.
"
IN: Calif. rate hikes likely as WellPoint CEO faces Congress
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A congressional committee has asked for information on health care increases and requested testimony from WellPoint CEO Angela Braly at a hearing that takes place today in Washington, D.C.
"
IN: Casino bill may be near death
From: feeds.stateline.org
"For an hour Tuesday it appeared lawmakers finally killed Gary's bid to build a land-based casino this year.
"
KS: Battle for statewide smoking ban looming
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A showdown over a proposed statewide ban on smoking in indoor public places, such as restaurants and bars, may occur today.
"
KS: Budget shortfalls mean some senior citizens in the state are going hungry
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Senior meal program managers across the state are being forced to make a tough decision: who goes hungry and who doesn't.
"
KS: Legislative Democrats tell House speaker to resign from lawsuit against state
From: feeds.stateline.org
"House Democratic leaders on Wednesday told House Speaker Mike O'Neal, R-Hutchinson, they will "take formal action" against him unless he steps aside from a lawsuit against the state.
"
KS: Kansas House committee set to debate Thursday whether federal government has become too intrusive
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A Kansas House committee is taking up a states' rights resolution declaring that the federal government has become too intrusive.
"
KS: Kansas senators express strong support for creation of 'rainy day fund'
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Members of a Kansas Senate panel expressed strong support Tuesday for a proposed amendment to the state constitution that would create a "rainy day" fund in the budget.
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KS: K-State releases proposals for $8 million in budget cuts, $7 million new tuition revenue
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Kansas State University President Kirk Schulz is proposing nearly $8 million in budget cuts in the next two years.
"
KS: State house committee schedules hearing to consider hike to state alcohol tax
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A House committee this week has scheduled a hearing for legislation to increase wholesale alcoholic beverage taxes and use that revenue to fill in budget holes for services for the mentally ill and disabled.
"
KS: Kansas now No. 2 in wind potential
From: feeds.stateline.org
"For years, Gov. Mark Parkinson has been telling anyone who would listen that Kansas has the third-largest potential in the nation for generating wind power.
"
KY: Bingo purchasing effort dropped
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state Department of Charitable Gaming hasn't received any offers to centralize purchasing of bingo supplies and is dropping the effort.
"
KY: Rally urges payday loan limits
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Payday lenders in Kentucky lent nearly $1billion in 2008, collecting roughly $158 million in "predatory'' fees, according to a report a Kentucky public interest group released Tuesday.
"
LA: Senate jobs bill unfairly weighted toward Louisiana, some say
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A $35 billion jobs bill passed by the Senate on Wednesday is running into trouble with some House members who say highway financing in the measure disproportionately benefits four states, including Louisiana.
"
MA: Red tide threat looms for Cape and Islands
From: feeds.stateline.org
"There is the potential for a red tide this year as severe as 2005's historic algae bloom that shut down shellfishing from Maine to Martha's Vineyard and led to $20 million in losses for the Massachusetts shellfish industry, researchers said yesterday.
"
MA: Mass. home sales, prices rise in Jan.
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Massachusetts home prices and sales surged in January, providing added evidence that the state's real estate market is on the rise.
"
MA: Money flows in auto bill battle
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A measure that could make car repairs less expensive for consumers heads to a vote on Beacon Hill today amid a torrent of lobbying by some of the country's most powerful corporations.
"
MA: Martha Coakley -- Bill would boost state's casino crime laws
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Attorney General Martha Coakley said Massachusetts needs to toughen its laws against money laundering, organized crime and wiretapping before it legalizes casino gambling.
"
MA: Security high as Yemeni LNG arrives
From: feeds.stateline.org
"EVERETT, Mass. - Before the massive tanker filled with liquefied natural gas sailed into Boston Harbor early yesterday from Yemen, a special Coast Guard team boarded and searched the ship, scanned the hull for explosives, and recorded the faces, retinas, and fingerprints of crew members.
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MD: Changes proposed in Baltimore public safety pension plan
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Police and firefighters would have to contribute more money toward their retirement and wait longer to collect benefits under a proposal to reform the city's public safety pension plan.
"
MD: Anti-slots petition drive accused of 'fraud'
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The company planning to build a casino at Arundel Mills mall filed a lawsuit yesterday alleging "massive fraud" in the petition drive aimed at stopping the project.
"
MD: Snow costs state lottery millions
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Lottery officials and local retailers are hoping to bounce back from the losses suffered during this month's back-to-back blizzards, which cost the statewide lottery millions of dollars in lost revenue.
"
ME: Red tide outbreaks likely this year
From: feeds.stateline.org
"PORTLAND, Maine — The New England shellfish industry faces the threat of widespread red tide outbreaks this spring and summer that could force hundreds of miles of clam flats to be closed and lead to clam shortages.
"
ME: Sap 'pouring in' for producers, but harvest outcome uncertain
From: feeds.stateline.org
"MACHIAS, Maine — This winter's unusual lack of snow and mild temperatures both day and night is having an extreme effect on Maine's maple syrup industry.
"
ME: Workers' comp law unnerving for contractors
From: feeds.stateline.org
"ELLSWORTH, Maine — New provisions concerning construction workers in the state's workers' compensation law have contractors worried about meeting the requirements or facing potential penalties.
"
ME: Mainers protest Anthem rate hike
From: feeds.stateline.org
"From Presque Isle, Deer Isle, Camden and Mapleton, Mainers traveled to Bangor Wednesday afternoon to protest the latest health insurance cost increase requested by Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Maine.
"
ME: Maine communities get energy grants
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Dozens of communities across Maine are receiving federal grants totaling nearly $5 million to be applied toward energy efficiency projects.
"
ME: Revenue forecast edges up for state
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state revenue forecasting committee has revised state revenues up by $51 million over two years, reducing the $438 million hole in the state budget.
"
ME: Cannery workers tell Baldacci they are 'angry and frustrated'
From: feeds.stateline.org
"GOULDSBORO, Maine — Gov. John Baldacci heard firsthand Tuesday from local officials and employees concerned about the announced closure of the local Bumble Bee sardine cannery when he traveled to the village of Prospect Harbor to offer his support.
"
ME: State cuts imperil nursing home
From: feeds.stateline.org
"GREENVILLE, Maine — The Charles A. Dean nursing home has been managed so well it has been named by U.S. News & World Report as one of the best nursing homes in the nation for two consecutive years, but that news has been overshadowed by financial woes.
"
MI: Mike Bouchard -- Michigan must focus on businesses already here, not luring others
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Republican gubernatorial candidate Mike Bouchard says the state's economic policies must focus on encouraging new and existing Michigan companies rather than on luring companies from elsewhere.
"
MI: EPA admits blame for invasive species
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A 41-page report from the Environmental Protection Agency released this week that acknowledges that, until recently, the agency hasn't done enough to keep invasive species out of the Great Lakes.
"
MI: Possible land lease could bring back the state fair
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Huron-Clinton Metroparks board is investigating the possibility of leasing the state fairgrounds in Detroit so it might resurrect the annual event and create the city's first Metropark.
"
MI: General Motors roaring out of bankruptcy
From: feeds.stateline.org
"General Motors Co. has invested $1.4 billion in more than a dozen plants and created about 5,500 jobs since emerging from bankruptcy court in July.
"
MN: Are you ready for some lobbying? Vikings' hires will push for stadium
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Minnesota Vikings have added some key players, and it has nothing to do with the guys on the field. It's about the guys who are trying to get a new field.
"
MN: Mock surgery in MN Capitol promotes education bill
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Minnesota State Capitol is due to become an operating room. A state surgical association planned to perform a mock total knee replacement in the Capitol Thursday.
"
MN: Pawlenty, legislators report progress on 2 issues
From: feeds.stateline.org
"After a bitter few days, Gov. Tim Pawlenty met with DFL legislators on Wednesday to begin working out their differences on the General Assistance Medical Care (GAMC) legislation he vetoed and a $1 billion bonding bill he has threatened with the same fate.
"
MN: Counties to state -- We can do it better and save money
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Minnesota counties would give up all their state aid in exchange for authority to levy a half-cent sales tax.
"
MN: House Speaker holding bonding bill
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Tim Pawlenty can't veto a bill that doesn't reach his desk, so House Speaker Margaret Anderson Kelliher today announced that she wouldn't send him the $1 billion public works bill that he vowed to veto even before both houses of the Legislature passed it Monday night.
"
MN: MN lawmakers challenge payday lending
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Minnesota lawmakers say a loophole in state law is allowing lenders to take money away from people who want an advance on their paycheck.
"
MN: Racino backers counting on weak economy
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Two Minnesota legislators have introduced legislation to expand gambling at the state's two horse-racing tracks.
"
MO: Bill would cut tuition for some illegal immigrants
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Some illegal immigrants could attend public universities at in-state tuition rates in Missouri under a bill in the Legislature.
"
MO: State pension plan heads for debate
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A state Senate committee Wednesday advanced a plan to put some state workers hired after Jan. 1, 2011, into a defined contribution retirement plan, similar to 401(k) plans in the private sector.
"
MO: Access Missouri proposal advances
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Senate Education Committee voted 6-3 Wednesday afternoon to give a "do pass" recommendation to a plan equalizing payments to college students under the Access Missouri scholarship program.
"
MO: Senate passes scaled-back ethics bill
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state Senate gave first-round approval to scaled-down ethics legislation Wednesday evening after defeating an attempt to restore political campaign contribution limits.
"
MO: Senate passes scaled-back ethics bill
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state Senate gave first-round approval to scaled-down ethics legislation Wednesday evening after defeating an attempt to restore political campaign contribution limits."
MO: Missouri schools facing big cuts
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Missouri is warning its public schools today to brace for at least $43 million in budget cuts, likely forcing school districts to adjust spending for the school year already in progress.
"
MO: Complaints of scams on rise in downturn
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Missouri's senior citizens are increasingly the targets of scam artists promising big returns on shaky investments.
"
MO: Few lobbyists heed Missouri law on lawmaker junkets
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A 2006 law requiring lobbyists to receive permission before they can treat Missouri lawmakers to out-of-state junkets is widely being ignored, The Kansas City Star has found.
"
MS: More funding for Toyota road
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State senators outdid their House counterparts Wednesday and doubled the amount of bonds that could be authorized to upgrade 10 miles of Miss. 9 near the Toyota factory in Blue Springs.
"
MS: House approves Toyota-related road bonds
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state House took action Tuesday to make access to the Toyota manufacturing plant at Blue Springs easier for Pontotoc Countians even though its opening has been delayed indefinitely.
"
MT: State, PPL reach deal on Colstrip waste ponds
From: feeds.stateline.org
"PPL Montana has reached a deal with Montana regulators to more closely monitor wastewater seeping from its Colstrip Power Plant - and could face new cleanups to address decades of contamination from the coal-fired plant.
"
MT: PSC gets NWE streetlight complaint from residents
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state Public Service Commission on Tuesday accepted a complaint from several Billings residents that NorthWestern Energy is overcharging customers for streetlights — and refusing to let cities replace old lamps with energy-saving new ones.
"
MT: Report -- States' tax collections fall again; Schweitzer says Montana won't feel pain as much
From: feeds.stateline.org
"States again saw sharp declines in tax collections in the last quarter of 2009 - a record fifth straight quarterly drop, according to a new report that predicts more looming spending cuts or tax increases.
"
MT: Planned initiative would cap payday loan rates
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Backers of tighter rules on payday loans are taking their idea straight to voters after failing several times in the Legislature, filing a new initiative Tuesday that would cap interest rates charged by the industry.
"
MT: State vet pushes for brucellosis vaccinations
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Montana's state veterinarian is pushing for brucellosis vaccinations for all sexually intact female calves, arguing that the move is necessary to control disease and keep Big Sky cattle marketable.
"
NC: Rising Blue Cross bills stun N.C. families
From: feeds.stateline.org
"As the national debate over health insurance reform rages on, many consumers in North Carolina are reeling from hefty rate increases.
"
NC: Grand jury subpoenas county ABC employees
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A federal grand jury has subpoenaed at least two employees of the Mecklenburg County ABC board, a board official and its attorney confirmed Wednesday.
"
ND: Flood control vendors flock to Fargo
From: feeds.stateline.org
"FARGO, N.D. -- Residents in this metropolitan area of about 200,000 people see the possibility of record Red River flooding for a second straight year as a threat to their homes. Some businesses outside the area see dollar signs.
"
ND: 2009 -- A bountiful year for crops
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Despite the late, slow growing season in 2009, crops turned out pretty good across North Dakota and northwest Minnesota, experts say.
"
ND: Pain remains for dairy, beef
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Tough times continue for area beef and dairy producers, with the latter particularly hard hit.
"
ND: Farms unchanged in North Dakota in 2009
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The number of farms in North Dakota in 2009 was unchanged from the previous year, at 32,000.
"
ND: Wind energy potential upgraded in Dakotas
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The American Wind Energy Association says there is more wind energy potential in the Dakotas than previously estimated.
"
NE: Plan to spruce up Nebraska cities hotly debated
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Lawmakers appear split over a proposal that supporters say could help create appealing urban developments that would make Nebraska cities more of a draw.
"
NE: Heineman welcomes campaign challenge on economy
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Bring it on, Gov. Dave Heineman said Wednesday. Heineman said he welcomes a re-election campaign challenge centered on economic development.
"
NE: Bill would OK new highway signs for Nebraska attractions
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Under the influence of the state's wineries and their economic potential, the Legislature held a lovefest Wednesday for a bill that would authorize "attractions" signs on the state's highways and Interstate 80.
"
NE: Corn checkoff removed from water fund
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Three years ago, Nebraska state senators created a fund to help pay for the costs of meeting water agreements with other states. Money for the Water Resources Cash Fund came from general fund tax dollars and a new corn checkoff set to begin in 2012.
"
NH: Probe spurred second union vote
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The U.S. Department of Labor alleges that the State Employees' Association gave President Gary Smith an unfair advantage in the union's 2008 election by giving him exclusive access to voters' contact information.
"
NJ: N.J. Assemblyman McKeon blasts Gov. Christie on freezing Highlands funding
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A main sponsor of the legislation that created the Highlands region in northern New Jersey blasted Gov. Chris Christie's decision to freeze Highlands funding.
"
NJ: N.J. labor unions lawsuit claims Gov. Chris Christie's 'pay to play' restrictions violates First Amendment
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Four labor unions sued Gov. Chris Christie today, saying he illegally extended state "pay to play" restrictions to them in an executive order he signed last month.
"
NJ: Gov. Chris Christie is expected to propose changes to N.J. unemployment system
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Chris Christie Thursday will propose major changes to the state's broken unemployment system, reducing benefits for workers and limiting tax increases on employers, legislative and administration officials said tonight.
"
NJ: N.J. Gov. Christie to mayors -- Brace for state aid cuts
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Governor Christie told mayors Wednesday to brace for state aid cuts in his upcoming budget, but promised he would also provide help in the form of pension, benefit and arbitration reform.
"
NJ: Gov. Chris Christie issues executive order reining in boards, commissions, authorities
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Chris Christie today escalated his efforts to rein in the state's independent boards, authorities and commissions, signing an executive order cracking down on their spending habits and laying the groundwork for some to be eliminated entirely.
"
NJ: N.J. Turnpike, Garden State Parkway spend $11M on real-time signs
From: feeds.stateline.org
"An old photo shown at the beginning of a New Jersey Turnpike Authority presentation shows just how far signs have evolved on the Turnpike in the last 59 years.
"
NJ: N.J. Turnpike, Parkway toll collectors get 550 complaint letters in two years
From: feeds.stateline.org
"EZ Pass was invented to avoid toll collectors like this.
"
NJ: Oyster Creek nuclear plant faces scrutiny at N.J. hearing about cooling towers
From: feeds.stateline.org
"LACEY TOWNSHIP, N.J. -- The Oyster Creek Nuclear Generating Station will likely come under intense scrutiny today when public hearings begin on whether to require installation of cooling towers, a multi-million dollar upgrade its owners say will force the Ocean County facility to close.
"
NJ: N.J. psychologists group suing insurers over patient record requests
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A psychologists group is suing two insurance companies and an administrative agency that serve 800,000 state employees, saying they are routinely demanding therapists hand over confidential patient information as a condition of getting paid.
"
NJ: Incoming N.J. transportation commissioner turns up the heat at turnpike authority meeting
From: feeds.stateline.org
"New transportation commissioner James Simpson shook up the New Jersey Turnpike Authority board meeting Tuesday, promising transparency, increased customer service and budget hawking.
"
NM: Retired UNM pprofessor joins 'pay-to-play' suit
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A retired health-education professor at The University of New Mexico has joined a New Mexico State University records clerk in alleging their pensions were damaged by Gov. Bill Richardson mixing finances with politics.
"
NM: ENMR-Plateau gets broadband stimulus grant
From: feeds.stateline.org
"ENMR-Plateau Telecommunications in Clovis will receive an $11.2 million stimulus grant for broadband development.
"
NM: NMSO taps general manager as president
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The New Mexico Symphony Orchestra has chosen its general manager to serve as interim president.
"
NM: Vaughan Co. Realtors files Chap. 11
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Vaughan Co. Realtors, the third largest residential real estate brokerage company in New Mexico, has filed for Chap. 11 bankruptcy protection.
"
NM: PNM earnings improved in 2009
From: feeds.stateline.org
"PNM Resources reported a significant improvement in its financial performance last year.
"
NM: Ethics, transparency bills await guv's action
From: feeds.stateline.org
"While a number of high-profile ethics and transparency measures died as the clock expired on the regular session last week, the New Mexico Legislature also sent a number of significant proposals to the governor for action.
"
NM: Majority of voters disapprove of Richardson's job performance
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The scandals that have hit Governor Bill Richardson over the past year have taken their toll on his approval rating.
"
NM: Governor delays special session
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Bill Richardson said Tuesday that he's holding off calling a special session of the Legislature, originally planned for today, until Monday.
"
NV: Bipartisanship emerges in anger at Gibbons over session deadline
From: feeds.stateline.org
"For all their differences over cuts and fees, Nevada's Legislature has found an unlikely unifying force: Gov. Jim Gibbons.
"
NV: Sen. Raggio knocks governor's accusation
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Sen. Bill Raggio, R-Reno, responded today to Gov. Jim Gibbons accusation that he had not attended meetings with the governor's office to go over the state's nearly $900 million budget shortfall.
"
NV: Relationship between Gibbons, Raggio shows strain on Day 2
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The second day of the special session got off to a rancorous start, with the relationship between Gov. Jim Gibbons and the Legislature continuing its downward spiral.
"
NV: 'Oversight' blamed for governor's lag in giving salary back
From: feeds.stateline.org
"In his State of the State address Feb. 8, Gov. Jim Gibbons boasted that both he and his staff are giving back 6 percent of their pay to help offset the state's budget crisis and boost teacher pay.
"
NV: Democrats -- Trim education cuts to 5 percent
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Assembly Democrats set a goal of reducing the governor's recommended budget cuts to education from 10 percent to 5 percent in a rare moment of political theater in Carson City today.
"
NV: Assembly working to blunt education, public services cuts, but it will be costly
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A Democratic alternative to Gov. Jim Gibbons' plan to bridge the state deficit began to take shape late Wednesday, with Assembly Democrats compiling a list of the governor's proposed budget cuts they intend to undo.
"
NV: Gibbons may survive a surreal special session
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Every legislative session is surreal; some are more surreal than others.
"
NV: Anti-tax ideology tests Republicans
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Senate and Assembly Republicans have split over whether to raise revenue or cut deeper to close the state's $887 million budget deficit.
"
NV: Gibbons' budget plan risky in an election year
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Jim Gibbons' shifting budget plan is complicating his re-election bid, tarnishing his conservative credentials and eroding support among the Republican base.
"
NV: Special Session -- Chancellor says cuts will mean fewer students or lower quality
From: feeds.stateline.org
"University Chancellor Dan Klaich told the Assembly on Tuesday that the cuts proposed by the governor will damage either access to a college education or quality of that education.
"
NV: Special Session -- Protesters take to Carson Street to show anger over budget cuts
From: feeds.stateline.org
"As lawmakers met inside the Legislature to try to hammer out solutions to the state's budget crisis, state workers marched up and down the sidewalk in front of the building carrying placards and shouting, "They say cut back, we say give back!"
"
NY: Liquor store owners rally in Albany
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Liquor store owners and their supporters gathered at the Capitol on Wednesday to oppose legislation that would allow grocery stores to sell wine.
"
NY: Senate -- Don't delay tax refunds
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state Senate on Tuesday called on Gov. David Paterson to abandon his proposal to potentially delay state tax refunds to alleviate the current fiscal crisis. The resolution, proposed by Senate Conference Leader John Sampson, D-Brooklyn, passed by a unanimous vote.
"
OH: Duke shouldn't get $31M from customers for windstorm, state advocate says
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio should deny Duke Energy Ohio's request to collect $31 million from its customers as reimbursement for the costs of restoring electric service knocked out by a September 2008 windstorm, the state consumer advocate said Wednesday, Feb. 24.
"
OH: Strickland -- More aid to jobless on way
From: feeds.stateline.org
"HAMILTON, Ohio -- Two of Ohio's top elected officials Wednesday said that the U.S. Senate may only be getting started with the passage of the $15 billion job creation bill.
"
OH: Oberlin to lose 119 jobs when World Color Press closes its plant
From: feeds.stateline.org
"OBERLIN, Ohio -- The Montreal-based company says it plans to close its Oberlin printing plant on May 21. The facility produces magazine inserts and direct mail products, said spokesman Tony Ross.
"
OH: Did gas company leave $$ on table?
From: feeds.stateline.org
"How would you like an extra $450 in your pocket? That's the amount that a typical Columbia Gas household could have saved from 2005 to 2009 if the company had used the purchasing practices that it will begin in April, according to a Dispatch analysis of newly available pricing data.
"
OH: Ohio's pain is Atlanta's gain
From: feeds.stateline.org
"First up was NCR, the famed, 125-year-old cash register company that moved its headquarters from Dayton, Ohio, to Duluth last June. Then came Fischbein, which announced in July that Suwanee, not Cleveland, would be the site for a new production line.
"
OH: U.S. EPA looks at electroplating plants in Cleveland, Chicago as source of PFCs, potentially dangerous 'emerging pollutant'
From: feeds.stateline.org
"CLEVELAND -- At least four Northeast Ohio electroplating companies are dumping an unregulated but potentially dangerous, chemical into their sewers -- and eventually untreated into Lake Erie, environmental officials said.
"
OH: Early voting lends sense of urgency to backers of Third Frontier issue on Ohio's May 4 ballot
From: feeds.stateline.org
"INDEPENDENCE, Ohio -- The campaign to extend Ohio's high-tech growth program by four years and $700 million must crank up quickly because early voting for the May 4 primary begins in little over a month, officials say.
"
OH: Columbia Gas of Ohio wants to base monthly gas prices directly on wholesale prices
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Columbia Gas of Ohio has taken the final step to basing its monthly gas prices directly on the wholesale price of fuel.
"
OH: Moon-Mars spacecraft contracts not being canceled yet, NASA boss tells LaTourette and other lawmakers
From: feeds.stateline.org
"NASA isn't circumventing Congress and shutting down the Constellation moon-Mars exploration program before lawmakers have a chance to review the controversial decision, the space agency's boss said Tuesday.
"
OH: Central Ohio homebuilders can expect only slight improvement this year, expert says
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Central Ohio homebuilders, coming off their worst year in more than three decades, today were told to expect this year to be only slightly better.
"
OH: Is there dough in your fridge? Ohio to start appliance rebate program
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Ohioans will be able to earn rebates on the purchase of Energy Star-rated refrigerators and other appliances beginning March 26, said Nadine Howard, director of Ohio's Energy Resources Division.
"
OH: Ohio wants foreclosure aid
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WASHINGTON -- The Obama administration is taking a raft of criticism from fellow Democrats in Ohio on the White House's approach to aiding states facing big home-foreclosure problems, with the latest shot yesterday from Sen. Sherrod Brown.
"
OH: GM will add 1,200 jobs at Lordstown
From: feeds.stateline.org
"General Motors will resume the overnight shift at its Lordstown assembly plant this summer, adding 1,200 jobs, the company said today.
"
OK: Oklahoma state Web site offers iPhone application
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Officials with OK.gov announced on Wednesday the release of the free application that provides real-time access to state agency news, maps of office locations and professional licensee information.
"
OK: Commission investigating Toughman contestant's death in Oklahoma City
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Oklahoma State Athletic Commission is investigating a Toughman contestant's death. Commission director Joe Miller said Wednesday Nathan Johnson apparently suffered a head injury during the two-day event last weekend at the Farmer's Market in Oklahoma City.
"
OR: Forecast is for slight improvement to Sacramento River salmon numbers, buoying hopes for Oregon fishing
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Salmon fishers are hopeful a relatively rosy forecast for Sacramento River salmon could portend a return, if a modest one, of salmon fishing off the Oregon coast.
"
OR: House votes to override governor's veto of fisheries bill
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State lawmakers handed Gov. Ted Kulongoski the third veto of his career on Tuesday.
"
OR: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service will decide soon whether the sage grouse deserves Endangered Species Act protection
From: feeds.stateline.org
"LAKEVIEW, Ore. -- It may seem an esoteric undertaking, this taxpayer-funded bird count, but if the greater sage grouse gains protection under the Endangered Species Act, that could curtail everything from energy development to cattle grazing in Oregon and ten other western states.
"
PA: Candidates court unions even as influence wanes
From: feeds.stateline.org
"When the United Steelworkers last week chose to back Dan Onorato in the Democratic gubernatorial primary, some members of the local that negotiates with him in his role as Allegheny County executive were less than pleased.
"
PA: Appliances excluded from state's rebate program
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Pennsylvanians who buy refrigerators, washing machines and other energy-efficient appliances this spring won't get a rebate that other states are making available.
"
PA: Group urges stronger energy conservation
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Pennsylvania residents could save up to $457 annually on their energy bills if strong federal energy efficiency policies now under consideration are added to last year's state energy conservation measures, according to a report released Wednesday by environmental groups.
"
PA: State House speaker lobbies U.S. for approval of I-80 tolls
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Democratic speaker of the state House is urging federal transportation officials to reject "political opposition" to the tolling of Interstate 80 and approve the controversial tolls because Pennsylvania transportation projects urgently need the money.
"
PA: High tax rates won't keep Wynn out of Pennsylvania
From: feeds.stateline.org
"After Pennsylvania lawmakers legalized slot machines in one of the nation's most populous states in 2005, casino boss Steve Wynn said the Keystone State's high tax rate on gambling would keep him from setting up shop there.
"
PA: Wagner says many aren't getting casino-funded tax cuts
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State Auditor General Jack Wagner says a confusing process is leaving some homeowners in Pennsylvania without the property-tax cut for which they qualify.
"
PA: Abortion doctor's license suspended
From: feeds.stateline.org
"PHILADELPHIA, Pa. -- Federal agents raided a clinic where abortions are performed and found "deplorable and unsanitary" conditions, including blood on the floor and parts of aborted fetuses in jars, according to the state agency that shut it down and suspended the license of the doctor in charge.
"
PA: 'Flat' funding concerns Pitt, PSU officials
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Financial pressure to increase student tuition at Pitt and Penn State will grow if state lawmakers adopt Gov. Ed Rendell's proposal to "flat fund'' the state-related universities in fiscal 2010-11, university leaders said Tuesday.
"
PA: State writes off $84,000 loss on grant
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Taxpayers will have to swallow an $84,000 loss on a state grant that was mishandled by a Greene County non-profit, the Department of Community and Economic Development has concluded after a review prompted by questions from the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.
"
SC: Commissioner takes aim at former ESC chief
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Commissioner Becky Richardson said that after feeling "muzzled," she wants to speak out about problems at the troubled Employment Security Commission.
"
SD: S.D. loan fund to finance energy efficiency projects
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A revolving loan fund has been created to help finance energy efficiency and renewable energy projects at schools and nonprofit organizations in South Dakota.
"
SD: Concern for wind energy
From: feeds.stateline.org
"An upwelling of local ordinances governing small wind projects are vexing, industry experts say, but it is proposed changes in tax incentives this legislation session that ultimately could cripple wind investment in South Dakota.
"
SD: Bad River on list for flooding
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Bad River in Fort Pierre is one of several South Dakota rivers expected to undergo significant flooding this spring if winter snow melts quickly.
"
TN: EPA's coal ash regulations still aren't set
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Lawmakers and environmentalists are becoming increasingly annoyed that the Environmental Protection Agency has not yet said what regulations it will propose for coal ash and if it should be classified as a hazardous material.
"
TN: Advocacy group warns that TennCare cuts would lead to more hospitalizations
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The head of a national advocacy group for the disabled said Wednesday that Tennessee's proposed cuts to its expanded Medicaid program could eventually have a negative effect on the state's economy.
"
TN: TN may lift ban on fish tanks in barbershops
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Barbershops in Tennessee could add fish tanks under a measure making waves in the legislature. The proposal sponsored by Democratic Rep. Ty Cobb of Columbia passed the House Health and Human Resources Committee on a voice vote Tuesday and is waiting to be scheduled for a full House vote.
"
TX: City rebuffed by state over refinery air permit
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Texas regulators rejected Houston's plea for a public hearing before renewing the air pollution permit of the city's largest refinery for 10 years Wednesday, illustrating what some say are flaws in state environmental law.
"
TX: Texas could feel impact of Obama's proposal to review health insurance premiums
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Obama administration's proposal to regulate health insurance premiums would add new supervision to a market in Texas that has largely been free from vigorous oversight.
"
TX: State to reject hearing on air permit at LyondellBasell refinery
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Texas' environmental agency is set to renew the air pollution permit of Houston's largest refinery for 10 years despite the city's plea that regulators hold a public hearing first.
"
US: Work-share program that cuts hours vs. jobs could grow
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A program that encourages companies to avoid layoffs by reducing workers' hours could be expanded to nearly half the states this year.
"
US: Northrop Grumman move raises stakes for D.C., Maryland, Virginia leaders
From: feeds.stateline.org
"RICHMOND -- Earlier this month, top executives from defense behemoth Northrop Grumman conducted the economic development version of speed dating. In search of a new home for their corporate headquarters, the company's leaders first went to Richmond, where they were wooed by Gov. Robert F. McDonnell (R). Then they went to Annapolis for a rendezvous with Gov. Martin O'Malley (D).
"
US: For donors to governors' associations, cash buys a seat at the table
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WASHINGTON — Democratic governors came here last weekend to meet with the president about health care. First, though, they had a date with their corporate sponsor: the drug maker Pfizer.
"
US: Lawmaker objects to U.S. plan to let states ID livestock
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Agriculture Department's plan to let states run livestock identification systems won't work, a lawmaker who oversees the department's budget says.
"
US: States weigh campaign-finance changes
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WASHINGTON — State lawmakers around the country are rushing to rewrite campaign-finance laws following the U.S. Supreme Court's recent ruling that opened the door to unlimited corporate and union money in elections and upended laws in nearly half the states.
"
US: Hiring freezes hamper weatherization plan
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WASHINGTON — President Obama's plan to create jobs and rein in energy costs through a steep increase in money for weatherizing the homes of low-income Americans has so far borne little fruit, with many of the biggest states meeting less than 2 percent of their three-year goals to date, the Department of Energy's inspector general said in a report Tuesday.
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UT: Utah Legislature -- Required screening for illegals on tap?
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Every company in the state of Utah would be required to screen employees for legal presence in the U.S. or face losing their business license and possible criminal penalties under a new bill in the Legislature.
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UT: Bill that would have given Jordan School District $15 million is defeated
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Despite 32-degree weather, hundreds of Jordan School District teachers gathered in front of more than a dozen high schools and middle schools Wednesday evening to picket and pass out fliers to people headed to parent-teacher conferences.
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UT: Utah Legislature -- Ethics test unknown to most
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Want to know if you would be an ethical legislator or lobbyist?
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UT: Another states' rights resolution advances
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Fueling the states' rights push, a joint resolution that aims to take back power from the federal government passed a House committee Wednesday with a 6-2 vote .
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UT: Herbert sticks to no-tax plan
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Gary Herbert remains opposed to a tax increase -- including the tobacco tax that has widespread popular support -- and believes Utah's budget can be balanced and critical cuts averted without the additional revenue.
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UT: Panel backs plan to relax liquor license quota
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A dearth of liquor licenses is scaring restaurant chains out of the state, potentially costing more than 1,000 jobs and millions of dollars in sales, developers told a House committee Wednesday.
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UT: Utah Dems say enough already on states' rights
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State lawmakers need to get back to business and start addressing the state's real problems rather than spending so much time telling -- and retelling -- the feds to back off, say minority party members.
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UT: First draft of Utah's budget -- No tax hikes, severe cuts
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Legislative leaders took their first shot at building next year's budget, presenting a proposal that would avoid tax hikes and spare public education any cuts, but would force serious choices in other areas.
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UT: State division allows competing bids for use of Utah Lake land
From: feeds.stateline.org
"PROVO, Utah — Utah Crossing Inc. may not be alone in applying for use of land it wants to utilize to build a bridge across Utah Lake.
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UT: Utah Legislature -- Measure boosts civil legal fees
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Sheriffs around Utah may be able to rake in more fees to help cover the costs of providing services for civil legal action.
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VA: Anthem raising rates in Virginia
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Beginning next week, Nancy Bailey will pay $416 a month for health insurance, more than a third higher than what she's paying now. Bailey is among thousands of Virginians who are experiencing double-digit increases in health premiums from Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield.
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VA: Critics -- McDonnell budget cuts cancel out possible job gains
From: feeds.stateline.org
"It's been one of the most frequently uttered sentences on the floor of the House of Delegates this year: "This is a jobs bill, Mr. Speaker."
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VA: Backers organize after vote to kill Virginia arts commission
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Virginia would become the only state without an arts commission if legislators approve a House of Delegates proposal to do away with the grant-making body in mid-2011.
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VA: House panel rejects autism-insurance coverage
From: feeds.stateline.org
"In the face of opposition from the business community, a House subcommittee left mothers of autistic children weeping yesterday as it effectively killed a measure designed to bring limited healthinsurance relief to autistic children.
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VA: Richmond tax amnesty program sailing through assembly
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A state Senate committee yesterday approved the city of Richmond's bid to implement a tax-amnesty program that could allow it to collect millions from delinquent taxpayers.
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VA: Virginia Beach assessments fall for second year in a row
From: feeds.stateline.org
"VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. -- For the second year in a row, home values continued their downward slide, according to a report from the city assessor presented Tuesday to the City Council.
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VT: Vermont Senate votes to close nuclear plant
From: feeds.stateline.org
"In an unusual state foray into nuclear regulation, the Vermont Senate voted 26 to 4 Wednesday to block operation of the Vermont Yankee nuclear plant after 2012, citing radioactive leaks, misstatements in testimony by plant officials and other problems.
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WA: Boeing competitor might not bid for tankers
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WASHINGTON -- The Air Force launched a new competition Wednesday for a $35 billion contract to start replacing the nation's aged fleet of aerial tankers, but whether Northrop Grumman and its European partner will follow through on its threat not to bid against Boeing was unclear.
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WA: Sales tax on vehicle trade-ins may return
From: feeds.stateline.org
"When Alan Gamblin started selling cars, he said, it was hard to persuade someone to trade in an old ride for a new one. That was before state voters imposed a tax break on the value of traded-in property.
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WA: Northrop supporters aiming for half of tanker contract with Boeing
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WASHINGTON -- Apparently figuring that half of $35 billion is better than none, supporters of Northrop Grumman's bid to build the new Air Force tankers are intensifying calls for the Pentagon to split the initial 179-airplane order between Northrop and Boeing.
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WA: Where do you want to go today? In a 520 carpool lane to Microsoft
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Microsoft Corp's ad on the back of today's Seattle Times A section says, "It's Time for Action on the 520 Bridge. Let's Move!"
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WA: Number of farms in state grows, report finds
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Woe is the family farmer. They've got it tougher than just about anyone, what with their tanking profits and all the faceless agri-conglomerates gobbling up their land.
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WI: Amicas to reconsider Merge Healthcare bid
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Merge Healthcare Inc. on Wednesday won another hearing from the board of a competitor it is seeking to buy but which so far has rebuffed Merge's bids.
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WI: Federal rules entangle housing help
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Homeowners in danger of foreclosure can receive free legal help through a $150,000 federal grant to Wisconsin's housing finance authority, but rules that came along with the grant have limited the money's use, officials and lawyers say.
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WI: Asian carp fishing unlikely to net much
From: feeds.stateline.org
"An aggressive - and expensive - Asian carp fishing expedition on the Chicago canal system likely will prove fruitless, say top carp experts.
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WI: Oshkosh gets new Army order
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Defense Department has ordered nearly 1,500 new Oshkosh Corp. all-terrain vehicles for use by the U.S. Army in Afghanistan, the company said Tuesday.
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WI: Wis. narrows milk-production gap with Calif.
From: feeds.stateline.org
"California still leads the nation in milk production, but second-place Wisconsin is slowly closing the gap.
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WI: One in four Wisconsin banks lost money in 2009
From: feeds.stateline.org
"One of every four Wisconsin banks was unprofitable last year, as losses from bad loans mounted in the weak economy, and industry analysts say 2010 doesn't hold out promise of a strong rebound.
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WI: Government workers get pension edge, study finds
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Best way to guarantee a financially stress-free retirement in Wisconsin? Work for the government.
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WV: Beer tax hike scrapped by House committee
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The plan to raise the tax on beer in West Virginia has gone flat. The House Health and Human Resources Committee on Wednesday scrapped a bill to raise the tax in order to fund substance abuse programs.
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WV: W.Va. lawmakers reacting to major elections ruling
From: feeds.stateline.org
"West Virginia lawmakers are again seeking the disclosure of spending behind third-party election ads. They're also proposing rules for corporations that devote funds to that activity.
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WV: Thompson still sees work to do
From: feeds.stateline.org
"House Speaker Rick Thompson is still hoping to create a state business court and help lower the high school dropout rate. He also wants eventually to find a fix for the massive retiree health care costs the state faces.
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WV: Judge extends protest ban at Massey complex
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A federal judge has extended a temporary order barring protests at a Massey Energy coal mining complex in southern West Virginia.
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WY: Wyoming 2nd highest in nation in percentage of construction jobs lost
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WASHINGTON–For the first time since the start of the economic downturn, every state and the District of Columbia reported losing construction jobs over the past twelve months, according to a new analysis of state-by-state employment data released by the Associated General Contractors of America.
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WY: Economic analysis proposal — an unnecessary expansion of government?
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Wyoming Senate has narrowly approved legislation calling for the state to expand its economics division to better serve counties in tracking fiscal data.
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WY: Budget work resumes today
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Aid to cities and counties and a surcharge on liquor and wine to pay for a new state liquor warehouse are two issues to be resolved today when the House and Senate take up the budget bill for third and final reading.
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WY: State seeks action in illegal CBM spill
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality recently issued a notice of violation to a coal-bed methane producer for allegedly spilling 10,000 barrels of coal-bed methane water in western Campbell County.
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WY: Gov plugs health care pilot project
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Dave Freudenthal on Wednesday gave another plug to a health insurance pilot project bill that is moving through the Legislature.
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WY: Safety bill gains traction
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A bill to increase penalties for workplace safety violations in Wyoming for the first time in more than 25 years is moving through the state Legislature.
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WY: Legislature puts brakes on spending
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Members of the Wyoming House and Senate on Tuesday were keeping their wallets zipped as they voted down amendments to add dollars to the $2.8 billion budget for the 2011-2012 fiscal years.
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WY: Wyo state employees contributing to retirement debated by House
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Wyoming's state employees may be taking home smaller paychecks after this Legislative session.
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The not-so-fast track for high-speed rail
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The last time intercity passenger trains served Madison, Wisconsin’s capital city, students at the University of Wisconsin campus there were protesting the Vietnam War. The trains stopped running when Amtrak took over passenger service around the country in 1971. But last month, the federal government announced it would give the state $810 million in stimulus money to return passenger trains to Wisconsin’s second-biggest city for the first time in more than four decades.
The $8 billion in federal stimulus money billed as “high-speed rail” funding that will pay for the Wisconsin improvements is going to 31 states to improve service on trains of all speeds. But as even the straightforward case of Wisconsin shows, the path for states to actually build high-speed rail promises to be long, costly and, in some cases, politically contentious.
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Visit the Stateline.org Economy & Business Page
From: feeds.stateline.org
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Proactive tax planning to take advantage of timely tax saving opportunities.
Comprehensive business services that integrate income tax compliance
and planning with investments and insurance choices.
Consulting services that review businesses to find hidden opportunities to
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.
