AK: Industry bids on 48,000 acres in Beaufort Sea lease sale
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state of Alaska has received oil and gas lease bids for 48,000 acres in near shore waters of the Beaufort Sea.
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AK: State to participate in cruise trade show
From: feeds.stateline.org
"ANCHORAGE, Alaska - The state Office of Economic Development is partnering with businesses to promote Alaska as a top cruise destination at an industry trade show next month.
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AK: Ethics bill targets executive travel and legal fees
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Alaska Legislature should write the ethics rules that apply to the executive branch, not someone within the branch, an Anchorage lawmaker said Tuesday.
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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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AL: Federal audit says Alabama stimulus funds not being spent fast enough
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WASHINGTON -- Alabama has completed only 7 percent of the work promised with $71.8 million in federal economic stimulus funds to make the homes of lower-income people in the state more energy efficient, according to a new, critical federal audit of the 1-year-old program.
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AL: Chickasaw opens bingo hall; Governor's task force raids within hours
From: feeds.stateline.org
"CHICKASAW, Ala. -- Just hours after opening, the Chickasaw electronic bingo operation was shut down Thursday night by members of the Governor's Task Force on Illegal Gambling.
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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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AZ: Bank CEO -- New wave of failures is possible
From: feeds.stateline.org
"In a couple of years, Americans will look back on the tough economy with a sigh of relief. But, in the meantime, they'd better make sure their bank deposits are protected.
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AZ: Albertsons' bid for Bashas' may wind up in judge's hands
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Bankruptcy Judge James Marlar ultimately could be the one who decides whether the Bashas' supermarket chain emerges from bankruptcy under the control of the Basha family or is sold to competitor Albertsons LLC.
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AZ: House energy measure dies following industry opposition
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Business and green-energy firms Thursday cheered the sudden death of a bill that they warned would have darkened Arizona's prospects for attracting alternative-energy firms.
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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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CA: California subpoenas big health insurers' financial records
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The California state attorney general's office said Thursday that it had subpoenaed financial records of California's seven largest health insurance companies as part of an investigation into whether they illegally raised customer premiums and denied payment of legitimate claims.
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CA: Most Cal House members back immigration reform
From: feeds.stateline.org
"California's Democrat-dominated congressional delegation is markedly more inclined to support immigration reform than Congress as a whole, a scorecard developed by the pro-reform Immigrants' List political action committee indicates.
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CA: Water package for parched San Joaquin Valley set to be unveiled
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WASHINGTON – The Obama administration is expected today to unveil an ambitious-sounding package of irrigation deliveries, water transfers, farm loan guarantees and other programs targeting the parched San Joaquin Valley.
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CA: California postpones bond sale
From: feeds.stateline.org
"California, tripped up by a legislative hurdle, has postponed selling $2 billion in general obligation bonds, a move that may mean higher interest rates on the debt should the process drag out.
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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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CO: Colorado senator wants tax on medical marijuana
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A state senator said Thursday he wants to ask voters to impose a special tax on medical marijuana.
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CO: Bill would scrap limits on tuition increases
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state budget crisis leaves lawmakers with little choice but to let some state colleges and universities increase tuition without legislative approval, Gov. Bill Ritter said Thursday, reversing his position on the issue.
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CO: Convenience-store beer bill dies in Colorado Legislature; grocery-store liquor bill ahead
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A Colorado legislative committee killed a bill to let convenience stores sell full-strength beer Wednesday in a move opponents of the bill said was about saving small business, and proponents said was about liquor stores keeping a sales monopoly on the product.
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CO: Ritter shares out budget pain, lifts business tax exemptions
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Bill Ritter signed nine pieces of controversial legislation into law Wednesday that suspended or eliminated tax breaks for businesses.
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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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CT: Filmmakers fight plan to alter Connecticut tax credit
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Moviemakers are coming to Connecticut, though Sen. Gary LeBeau says the state can keep them coming and save money at the same time by adjusting its film tax-break program.
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CT: Stop & Shop says latest offer worth $3,500 more per worker
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Stop & Shop is offering a pay and benefits increase worth $3,500 per employee, according to a memo to employees obtained Thursday by The Courant.
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CT: Agency urges moratorium on power-plant gas line purges
From: feeds.stateline.org
"MIDDLETOWN, Conn. -- Federal authorities investigating the Kleen Energy plant explosion are calling on similar plants or any industry that conducts high-pressure natural gas purges to stop them until safer regulations can be put in place.
"
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.
"
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.
"
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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DE: JFC hears Parole Board plea
From: feeds.stateline.org
"To members of the Joint Finance Committee, the debate over a plan to abolish the Board of Parole is largely an issue of dollars and cents, complicated by political and constitutional issues. Mary Faith Welch sees it as a matter of life and death.
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DE: Court says Delaware River dredging can start
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Supporters of a $310 million Delaware River channel deepening plan won the latest round in a court fight Wednesday, clearing the way for dredging to start as early as Friday.
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FL: With hands tied, Florida struggles to carve new jobs
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Spurred by state unemployment soon expected to top 12 percent and a political agenda keen on kick-starting a long-stalled economy, Florida lawmakers insist job creation is a priority in this legislative session. If only it were that easy.
"
FL: Doors closing for poor, uninsured who need psychiatric help
From: feeds.stateline.org
"He is 27, unemployed, uninsured and suffering from insomnia, mood swings and what seems to be post-traumatic stress disorder. But because the state has not increased its funding in the past decade for the programs that might help him, he can't get a psychiatric evaluation or medication.
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FL: Legislature tries again to tackle insurance mess
From: feeds.stateline.org
"It's a puzzle the Legislature can't seem to solve. How can the state government make homeowner's insurance affordable while keeping the insurance companies profitable and able to cover claims if a major hurricane hits? Because if the companies can't pay, the state could be on the hook for billions.
"
FL: SeaWorld Orlando's attack killer whale Tilikum is valuable, dangerous
From: feeds.stateline.org
"What to do with a 12,000-pound killer whale that is famous for being the world's most potent captive orca stud and infamous for the deaths of three people?
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FL: Audit slams Jackson over money mess
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A much-anticipated audit of Jackson Health System released Thursday criticized management for a ``significant deficiency'' in its financial practices because it didn't identify highly overstated revenue estimates ``in a timely manner.''
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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.
"
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.
"
GA: Anti-nuke group takes aim at Obama's visit to Georgia
From: feeds.stateline.org
"In honor of President Barack Obama's visit to Georgia next week, the environmental group Friends of the Earth launched two TV ads in Atlanta and Columbia, S.C., protesting $55 billion in loan guarantees for nuclear plants.
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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.
"
HI: Dentists agree that state fails to serve low-income children
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A failing grade for Hawaii in a Pew Center report on dental care for low-income children reflects the state government's "very poor job in promoting dental health for Hawaii's underserved children," says Dr. Craig Mason, Hawaii Dental Association president.
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HI: Hawaii excise tax breaks may be cut to help ease budget deficit
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Each year the state forgoes about $835 million in revenue by giving companies and individuals a break on the general excise tax, exempting everything from aircraft engines to shipbuilding.
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HI: Hawaii legislators say no dice to bills that would allow casinos
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state House Finance Committee agreed last night to defer a bill that would have allowed a casino on O'ahu, as lawmakers discarded gambling as an option to help with the state's budget deficit.
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HI: Hawaii school board finds another $37.7M to cut from budget
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Responding to a request from lawmakers to cut another 5 percent from its budget, the state Board of Education worked into the night identifying programs that could be trimmed.
"
IA: Senate OKs bill to assist Iowa auto dealers
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Iowa car retailers battling to regain franchises lost in last year's purge by Chrysler and General Motors could see their standing improve slightly, thanks to a bill approved by the Iowa Senate.
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IA: Deere recalls workers to Dubuque, Davenport plants plant
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Deere & Co. is recalling 117 workers at its plants in Dubuque and Davenport as market conditions in its construction and forestry divisions improve, a spokesman said Thursday.
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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.
"
ID: Aquifer funding plan may be put off a year
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Legislation that would allow the Idaho Water Resource Board to collect fees for projects benefitting the Eastern Snake Plain Aquifer might not be introduced this year after it ran into legal concerns.
"
ID: House passes long-term debt amendment
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The House approved on Thursday a proposed constitutional amendment that would clear the way for municipal power companies to take on long-term debt to purchase electricity without voter approval.
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ID: Board backs plan to keep state parks open
From: feeds.stateline.org
"JEROME, Idaho — The board governing Idaho's 30 state parks backed a budget plan Thursday morning that will keep all of them open at least one more year, including Thousand Springs State Park near Hagerman.
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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.
"
IL: Blue Cross parent to discuss premium increases
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The parent of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois has been summoned with other health insurance giants to Washington next week to discuss premium increases with U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius.
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IL: Jobless to lose benefits soon
From: feeds.stateline.org
"ROCKFORD, Ill. -- About 14,800 Illinoisans' unemployment benefits will lapse every week without congressional action, according to a new analysis by the Illinois Department of Employment Security.
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IL: 'Flat is the new up' for central Illinois economic climate
From: feeds.stateline.org
"PEORIA, Ill. -- Sun shining off the snow Thursday morning at the WeaverRidge clubhouse, site of a forum on the area's economic climate, symbolized the current state of affairs in central Illinois, said one of the speakers.
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IL: Judge -- Regulators went too far in funeral directors settlement
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A Cook County judge has ruled that state regulators overstepped their authority last spring when they extracted $18 million from Merrill Lynch to settle allegations that the financial giant violated state law in its dealings with the Illinois Funeral Directors Association.
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IL: Tougher rules for cabbies nearing
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Illinois House voted unanimously Thursday to toughen requirements for taxi drivers despite objections from Chicago and one of its largest cab companies.
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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.
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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.
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IN: House says nix business tax hike
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Indiana House of Representatives backpedaled Wednesday on a year-old plan to increase the taxes businesses pay for unemployment insurance.
"
IN: Union files charges over letter
From: feeds.stateline.org
"EVANSVILLE, Ind. -- Claiming that Whirlpool has threatened employees who plan to participate in an Evansville rally, a local union has filed a labor charge against the company.
"
IN: Hummer's end leaves Indiana workers in limbo
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Unless a last-minute buyer shows up, it's likely the General Motors Hummer brand will become a thing of the past.
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IN: Illiana Expressway bill gets bonus mileage
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State lawmakers could take a final vote today to authorize a public/private partnership to create the Illiana Expressway.
"
IN: NIPSCO chief gets lucrative deal to resign
From: feeds.stateline.org
"MERRILLVILLE, Ind. -- When NIPSCO chief Eileen O'Neill Odum announced her resignation last week, she received a lucrative compensation package worth more than $1.6 million plus benefits over the next three years if paid in full.
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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.
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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.
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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.
"
KS: Kansas' statewide smoking ban exempts some areas
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Here's where you could and couldn't smoke under the smoking ban the Kansas House sent to the governor on Thursday. The governor pushed for the ban and is expected to sign it.
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KS: Kansas House set to debate next week a bill to narrow sales tax exemptions
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A Kansas House committee expects to debate a bill next week to eliminate exemptions to the state's sales tax.
"
KS: Small school district leaders plead with legislators not to force consolidation
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Officials from some of the smallest school districts in Kansas said Thursday that legislators have already held out "sticks and carrots" to encourage consolidation.
"
KS: Kansas House panel hears states' rights measure
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A Kansas House committee has heard testimony on a states' rights resolution that supporters say is intended to preserve individual liberties.
"
KS: Legislation OK'd to snuff smoking at Kansas restaurants, bars, workplaces
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Get ready to say goodbye to smoking sections. Kansas is kicking the habit by becoming the latest state to outlaw smoking in bars, restaurants and workplaces.
"
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.
"
KY: House backs bill on horse health issues
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A bill creating a board that could study horse health issues and recommend standards of care received unanimous approval Thursday from the House.
"
KY: Coal-to-gas company wants utilities required to buy its electricity
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A Louisville company that's planning to build a coal-to-natural gas manufacturing plant in western Kentucky wants a state law that would require utilities to buy electricity from facilities like theirs.
"
KY: House considering suspension of business tax break
From: feeds.stateline.org
"In trying to balance the next state budget, the House is considering suspending for two years a provision that allows businesses to carry forward losses for tax purposes.
"
KY: Bill to cap payday loan fees appears dead
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Rep. Jeff Greer, D-Brandenburg, chairman of the House Banking and Insurance Committee, said Wednesday that he doesn't plan to call House Bill 381 for a hearing this session because he wants to give a new electronic system meant to monitor the payday industry time to work.
"
LA: Coastal projects all lacking cash, expert declares
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The wide variety of coastal restoration projects now planned for Louisiana look good on paper, but are missing the most important component: money. That's the message a financial planner brought to an Army Corps of Engineers town hall meeting on restoration plans Thursday night in Gretna.
"
LA: New Orleans-Baton Rouge passenger rail would have positive effect, study concludes
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A proposed passenger rail link between New Orleans and Baton Rouge that has been opposed by Gov. Bobby Jindal would provide positive economic and social benefits to justify the public subsidy needed for its operations, according to an independent evaluation commissioned by the Southern High-Speed Rail Commission and the Louisiana transportation department.
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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: Fate of offshore wind farm in government's hands
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A decision on the fate of what would be the first offshore wind farm in the United States is expected from the federal government in the next several weeks.
"
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.
"
MD: Senate passes BPA ban in bottles, cups for small children
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A bill to ban the chemical bisphenol-A from baby bottles and infants' cups passed its final hurdle in the General Assembly on Thursday.
"
MD: Ignition locks are debated
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Advocates for a crackdown on drunken driving squared off against the alcoholic beverage industry Thursday over an O'Malley administration-supported bill that would require court-determined drunken drivers to install devices that would prevent their cars from being started if they have been drinking alcohol.
"
MD: 'Bureaucracy gone wild,' Della calls pension staff trips abroad
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A Baltimore state senator critcized the state's retirement agency Thursday for spending $173,000 on travel in the past year, calling it a "bureaucracy gone wild" because it sent staff members on 61 trips last year to such far-flung destinations as Hong Kong, Paris, Tokyo, Zurich, Athens, Frankfurt and Toronto.
"
MD: Former UM law dean is asked to refund $60,000
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State university system officials have asked the former dean of the University of Maryland School of Law to return $60,000 in unauthorized compensation and have referred questionable payments totaling $410,000, which were revealed by a state legislative audit, to the attorney general's office for review.
"
MD: Sailing Hall of Fame clears state board
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A state board yesterday approved the National Sailing Hall of Fame & Museum, which will be built with private funds on state land at City Dock in Annapolis.
"
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.
"
ME: Maine passes credit protection bill
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Maine House has given final approval to a bill to protect consumers from unauthorized credit card charges.
"
ME: Canadian workers in Maine at issue
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Landowners and logging contractors from northern Maine packed a public hearing Thursday to testify against a pair of controversial bills arising from long-standing tensions over the use of Canadian workers in the Maine woods.
"
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.
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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.
"
MI: Assembly passes big-box retailer drug bill
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Big-box retailers would be able to offer more prescription drugs for $4 a month, under a bill the Assembly passed Thursday.
"
MI: Scientists seeking methods to control Asian carp
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Scientists are stepping up the quest for new poisons and other tools that could prevent Asian carp from gaining a foothold in the Great Lakes, Obama administration officials told a congressional panel Thursday.
"
MI: Governor wants Senate to extend jobless benefits
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Thousands of Michigan residents will begin losing their unemployment benefits next month if the U.S. Senate doesn't extend them by Sunday, Gov. Jennifer Granholm said Thursday.
"
MI: Ex-Michigan governors find common ground
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The crowd in Livonia probably came to Laurel Manor for the same reason that they visit the Michigan International Speedway.
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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.
"
MN: Weatherization funds go unspent
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WASHINGTON - Millions of stimulus dollars to weatherize Minnesota homes remained largely unspent at the end of 2009, leaving the state far from its projected goals for 2012, federal investigators reported this week.
"
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.
"
MO: Outlook worsens for state budget
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state's revenue picture, already troubled, is getting bleaker.
"
MO: Missouri lawmakers OK bills speeding insurance payments
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Missouri lawmakers advanced two bills Thursday aimed at speeding insurance payments to hospitals and health care providers.
"
MO: Missouri lawmakers move to close loophole on big boat purchases
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A longstanding sales tax exemption for yacht buyers would disappear under any of three bills introduced Wednesday in Jefferson City.
"
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."
MS: Yes they CanCan
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Mississippi Gaming Commission gave site approval for the CanCan Casino in D'Iberville at its meeting Thursday in Jackson.
"
MS: Economy is next civil rights front, longtime activist Andrew Young says
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Andrew Young, an activist who worked alongside Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., says America's civil rights fight must move to an economic front.
"
MS: Governor honors Miss. artists
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The 2010 Governor's Awards for Excellence in the Arts at Galloway Memorial United Methodist Church celebrated the arts in every capacity - for its role in education and economic development as well as cultural heritage and beauty.
"
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.
"
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.
"
NC: Distress over economy rules N.C. voters' mood
From: feeds.stateline.org
"SANFORD, N.C. -- As the midterm election campaign begins, North Carolina voters have deep anxiety about a weak economy, a loss of jobs, and whether life will be better for their children, according to a News & Observer/ABC11 Eyewitness News poll.
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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: Oil industry booms -- in North Dakota
From: feeds.stateline.org
"KILLDEER, N.D. — A massive oil reserve buried two miles underground has put North Dakota at the center of a revolution in the U.S. oil industry, a shift that has radically altered the fortunes of this remote area.
"
ND: Supreme Court says feedlot decision OK
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The North Dakota Supreme Court has upheld a conditional feedlot permit issued for Fred Berger near Mandan. Morton County zoning rules ban people from building new feedlots within a mile of an existing residence.
"
ND: ND crop production value falls in 2009; still 3rd highest
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The total value of the crops produced by North Dakota farmers dropped off last year after two consecutive years at record highs, but still came in at the third-highest level in state history and ahead of the fourth-place year by nearly $2 billion.
"
ND: Coal drying plant doesn't require mining permit
From: feeds.stateline.org
"North Dakota regulators concluded Wednesday that a coal drying plant does not require a state mining permit, a decision that the plant's opponents said they might challenge in court.
"
NE: Nebraska lawmakers give homeowners associations power
From: www.journalstar.com
"Nebraskans who belong to homeowners associations soon will likely have another reason to pay dues. Lawmakers on Thursday gave final-round approval (LB736) to a bill that would allow associations to file financial liens on homes for unpaid association dues and fines.
"
NE: Plan offers gust of wind power
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A legislative proposal to inspire more development of Nebraska's potential for wind power was billed Wednesday as opening the door, not the floodgates, to wind turbines.
"
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.
"
NH: Gambling bills at the starting gate
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gambling is back. Bills regarding slot machines, historical racing and dog racing are all on the docket, beginning next week. Though bills to expand gambling in the state have failed in the past, proponents say this year is different, since the state is in dire need of revenue.
"
NH: Scientists sound red tide warning
From: feeds.stateline.org
"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.
"
NJ: N.J. Assembly approves bill allowing development rights in protected Highlands
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Assembly approved legislation today that would allow municipalities throughout the state to accept development rights from towns in the protected Highlands region.
"
NJ: N.J. ban on 'diploma mills' for school administrators, teachers passes Assembly
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A bill that cracks down on the use of "diploma mills" by school administrators and teachers who receive advanced degrees to increase their salaries won Assembly approval today.
"
NJ: State pension fund gap grows to $46 billion
From: feeds.stateline.org
"New Jersey's pension system is underfunded by nearly $46 billion, a more than 30 percent increase in a year, and as a result the state's annual bill has grown to $3 billion, according to a new analysis released Thursday by the state Treasury department.
"
NJ: N.J. Assembly unveils pension reform bills
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Assembly leaders Thursday introduced their versions of pension bills passed by the Senate earlier this week -- and said they would add three more proposals to the mix.
"
NJ: N.J. Gov. Christie looking to cut jobless benefits
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Governor Christie is seeking to reduce unemployment benefits to ease a looming payroll tax hike on state businesses, a proposal Democratic lawmakers are calling "a total nonstarter" and "immoral."
"
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.
"
NM: Bill allows nuke-worker program to tap federal funds
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Money for a state advocacy program to help workers exposed to nuclear radiation will come from a federal compensation fund under a bill overwhelmingly approved by New Mexico legislators.
"
NM: House GOP -- 'We're not in on the budget talks'
From: feeds.stateline.org
"There are a lot of closed doors at the Roundhouse in Santa Fe, and presumably behind some of them leaders are talking about how to solve the state's budget crisis.
"
NM: New law aims to rein in health care
From: feeds.stateline.org
"New Mexico's health insurance companies will be required to put 85 percent of every premium dollar toward health care services, instead of to administrative costs and profits, under a bill passed by the state Legislature.
"
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.
"
NV: Special session -- GOP presents plan with compromises and revenues
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Republican minority rolled out a budget plan Thursday evening that includes not only compromises on cuts but potential revenue increases as well.
"
NV: Governor meets with legislators, differences on cuts remain
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Jim Gibbons met with Republican leadership this afternoon in what he described as a "cordial" meeting even though disagreements remain about some budget cuts.
"
NV: Senate OKs bill on electronic child support filing
From: feeds.stateline.org
"By a 21-0 vote, the Senate approved a bill to get more major employers to electronically transfer to the state the child support payments withheld from their workers.
"
NV: Nevadans will feel impact of four-day government workweek
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Most of Nevada's government will soon transition to a four-day workweek. But the reasons for it go beyond filling the state's $887 million deficit.
"
NV: Senate OKs sweeping funds from reserve accounts
From: feeds.stateline.org
"By a 17-3 vote, the Senate approved sweeping $197 million from reserve accounts in such programs as university scholarships and problem gambling.
"
NV: GOP unveils state budget plan, admits much copied from Democrats
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The third day of the Nevada Legislature's special session closed with the leading gaming association failing to come to a consensus on paying more in fees.
"
NV: Budget crunch a campaign snare
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Being broke is never fun, as Nevada's governor and the men who would replace him can attest.
"
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.
"
NY: $1.4B in play for pay delay
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State Budget Director Robert Megna said Gov. David Paterson plans to delay $1.4 billion in March payments, adding that the move is necessary to keep the cash-strapped state from going broke as the end of its fiscal year approaches.
"
NY: Time runs out for jobless
From: feeds.stateline.org
"For an estimated 400 jobless Capital Region residents, things could get even worse Sunday. That's when their unemployment benefits will expire if Congress does not act to extend the payments, acting state Labor Commissioner Colleen Gardner warned Thursday.
"
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.
"
OH: Roadblocks exist to pension-fund fire sale
From: feeds.stateline.org
"If City Hall ends up trying to sell as much as a half billion dollars in assets to bolster Cincinnati's troubled retirement system, the Greater Cincinnati Water Works is unlikely to be one of the items put on the block. State law, moreover, would complicate the sale of any city asset for that purpose, city officials said Thursday.
"
OH: Judge approves bid procedure for Chrysler's Twinsburg plant
From: feeds.stateline.org
"TWINSBURG, Ohio -- The Bankruptcy Court judge overseeing Chrysler's case gave the company permission Thursday to go ahead with its planned auction of its Twinsburg stamping plant.
"
OH: Feds defend Ohio's exclusion from foreclosure relief program
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Rep. Dennis Kucinich and other members of Congress from Ohio on Thursday called the Obama administration on the carpet for excluding Ohio from a new $1.5 billion program to fight mortgage foreclosures.
"
OH: Northeast Ohio business development group falls short of goals
From: feeds.stateline.org
"For the second straight year, the regional agency charged with attracting new businesses fell short of its goal for new payroll.
"
OH: Ohio has no idea how to pay U.S. back for jobless benefits
From: feeds.stateline.org
"It has been more than a year since Ohio depleted its unemployment-compensation fund, and with the fund's debt surpassing $2 billion and growing, a fix is nowhere in sight.
"
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.
"
OK: Insurance-impoundment bill advances
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A House panel passed a measure Wednesday that would allow for the impoundment of vehicles of people who fail to carry insurance.
"
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.
"
PA: Region's cost to dig out after record snowfall tops $14 million
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Allegheny County, its towns, schools and hospitals spent more than $9 million for emergency work as storms dumped more than two feet of snow on the region.
"
PA: Witness -- Veon OK'd political work on state tab
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Bob Caton said he often campaigned on state time and was directed to do so by his former boss Mike Veon, then the No. 2 Democrat in the state House.
"
PA: State investigates group homes operator
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Laurel Highlands Foundation Inc., a nonprofit based in North Versailles that operates group homes and provides services for the mentally disabled, is under county and state scrutiny after allegations surfaced of possible embezzlement.
"
PA: Rendell stumps for tax plan
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Ed Rendell, trying to gather support for a series of proposed tax code changes, told an East End audience on Thursday that Pennsylvania would need the extra revenue from expanded sales, tobacco and natural gas taxes to forestall an economic "tsunami" in 2012.
"
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.
"
RI: R.I. film tax credit gains star support
From: feeds.stateline.org
"House Finance Committee members were looking for numbers that could help them decide whether the state should keep — or scrap — its motion picture tax credit program.
"
RI: Could R.I. reform health care on its own?
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Suppose a federal health-care overhaul doesn't happen. Suppose President Obama's summit Thursday leads to naught. Could Rhode Island solve the problem on its own? Can this little state control medical spending and reduce the number of uninsured people?
"
RI: Benefits agency plans to hire 31 more staffers
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state Department of Labor and Training plans to use federal funds to hire 31 additional staff at its jobless benefits call center to help deal with chronic backlogs and delays amid the state's high rate of unemployment.
"
RI: R.I. house prices rise for third straight month
From: feeds.stateline.org
"House prices in Rhode Island rose for the third straight month in January when compared with the same month a year earlier and posted the biggest percentage gain since January 2005 when Rhode Island real estate was racing toward all-time highs.
"
SC: Mall's $100 million tax break fast-tracked
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The proposed development of a high-end shopping mall in Jasper County gained priority status in the Senate Thursday, garnering a coveted slot in the lineup for debate.
"
SC: Panel puts off vote on bills for tax relief on 2nd home
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Some South Carolina senators want to give struggling homeowners property tax relief if they can't sell their homes or must move for a new job.
"
SD: SD bill fighting federal union organizing advances
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A South Dakota House panel on Wednesday endorsed a proposed constitutional amendment that seeks to block a union organizing measure being considered by Congress.
"
SD: SD bill closes gambling debt loophole
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A loophole that allowed a South Dakota man to avoid repaying a $33,000 debt because he once lost $1,500 to the lender in a card game would be closed under a bill headed to the governor's desk.
"
TN: 'Drive-through' beer bill stalls
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Legislation to prohibit "drive-through" sales of beer statewide has stalled in a Senate committee as the sponsor sounds out support for modification of the measure.
"
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.
"
TX: Homebuilder Bob Perry gives $25k to House GOP candidate
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Houston homebuilder Bob Perry and his wife Doylene on Tuesday sent an 11th-hour, $25,000 contribution to a Republican candidate for the Texas House who once served as executive director of the state agency that hears homeowner complaints against builders.
"
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.
"
US: Despite outcry, Anthem Blue Cross to go ahead with big rate hike
From: feeds.stateline.org
"SAN FRANCISCO -- Anthem Blue Cross, the health insurer that plans to boost rates by as much as 39 percent in California this year, has become a lightning rod in the national debate over healthcare reform.
"
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.
"
UT: Utah exports buck trend, hold steady
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Utah companies exported more than $10.3 billion in 2009, equal to that of 2008, according to the U.S. Department of Commerce. And that's at a time when exports saw double-digit decreases nationally.
"
UT: Utah Legislature -- Buttars pitches plan to save Jordan schools
From: feeds.stateline.org
"As Jordan School District continues to struggle with a $30 million deficit, one lawmaker says he has the answer to its money woes.
"
UT: Foreign-gift disclosure bill advances
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A bill that would broaden disclosure to the Board of Regents of foreign donations to Utah's colleges and universities advanced in the Senate Thursday on a vote that seesawed back and forth before settling at 22-2.
"
UT: Cost of message bills concerns Herbert
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Gary Herbert expressed doubts Thursday about the constitutionality of a bill to exempt Utah-made guns from federal firearms laws and also voiced his concern about the potential costs of the flood of "message bills" before the Legislature.
"
UT: Governor rebuts EnergySolutions' claim that waste will end up in Utah
From: feeds.stateline.org
"EnergySolutions Inc. assured its investors Thursday that trainloads of depleted uranium from a government cleanup in South Carolina will end up in Utah as originally planned -- but the assertion was quickly contradicted by Gov. Gary Herbert's office.
"
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.
"
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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VA: Capitol auction draws bidders worldwide; Morrissey buys Wilder desk
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Del. Joseph D. Morrissey, D-Henrico, is the proud new owner of a mahogany desk used by then-Lt. Gov. L. Douglas Wilder, a $2,185 purchase that took place Wednesday during a spirited auction of castoff furnishings and lighting from Virginia's Capitol.
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VA: Virginia House shoots down pleas to 'save' arts
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Even as hundreds of arts supporters wearing "Save the Arts" stickers descended on the Capitol, the House of Delegates passed a version of the state budget on Thursday that would eliminate the state arts commission.
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VA: Va. House, Senate OK competing budget plans
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The House and Senate approved versions of a two-year state budget Thursday that carve money out of core government services to address a $4.2 billion shortfall.
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VA: Aid available for cities damaged by nor'easter
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Federal Emergency Management Agency on Thursday granted more than $1 million to help Virginia localities replace and repair infrastructure damaged in November's nor'easter.
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VA: Proposals seek OK for wind farms off Beach coast
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Two green-energy companies have asked the federal government to approve permits for wind farms off the coast of Virginia Beach, the first applications to develop offshore wind power in Virginia.
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VA: Va. pitches $75 million plan for train to Richmond
From: feeds.stateline.org
"With the prospect of high-speed rail at least six years off, state officials want to spend $75 million on an intermediate step that they say could become reality in half that time: a conventional passenger train from Norfolk to Richmond.
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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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VT: Senate pulls plug on Vermont Yankee
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Vermont Senate delivered a blow to the Vermont Yankee nuclear power plant Wednesday with a resounding vote against allowing the state Public Service Board to consider granting the plant another 20 years of life after 2012.
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VT: Fight seems poised to go on
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The State Senate overwhelmingly voted Wednesday to close the Vermont Yankee nuclear power plant in 2012, although the legislative and legal battle over the troubled facility could be far from over.
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VT: Internal report -- Entergy did not intentionally mislead about pipes
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Vermont Yankee officials said Wednesday an internal investigation has revealed company representatives did not intentionally mislead state officials about the presence of underground pipes at the plant, but it was reprimanding 11 employees for providing "incomplete and misleading" information.
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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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WI: Bill for cheaper Roth IRA conversions unanimously approved by Legislature
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State residents of all income levels will be able to convert traditional individual retirement accounts to Roth IRAs without penalties under a bill the Assembly passed unanimously Thursday.
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WI: Wis. Assembly adopts business tax credit plan
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The measure creates a state supplement to the federal New Markets Tax Credit Program, which provides credits to businesses in low-income areas. The bill caps the annual total credit amount at $10 million.
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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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WV: Toyota's troubles worry factory town
From: feeds.stateline.org
"BUFFALO, W.Va. — Workers at Toyota Motor Corp.'s sprawling operations here have a message for Congress as it digs into the auto maker's safety record: any actions against the Japanese company will be felt here, too.
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WV: Mollohan urges EPA to speed up mine permits
From: feeds.stateline.org
"West Virginia Rep. Alan Mollohan says the Environmental Protection Agency has to speed up reviewing surface coal mining permits.
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WV: CONSOL could face suit over Dunkard Creek pollution
From: feeds.stateline.org
"West Virginia environmentalists plan to sue CONSOL Energy to try to stop ongoing water pollution violations that have already been blamed for a massive fish kill that left Dunkard Creek in Monongalia County lifeless.
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WV: Lottery offers $15 million for office tower
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state's plan to purchase the City Center West office tower for the Lottery Commission is $7 million short of the owner's asking price, according to state and local officials familiar with the negotiations.
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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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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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Dow projects expected to create 2,500 Michigan jobs
From: feeds.stateline.org
"MIDLAND, Mich. -- The state has awarded Dow Chemical Co. incentives for three alternative energy projects to develop wind, solar and alternative battery power. Based in Midland, the projects total more than $1 billion and will create 2,500 direct jobs.
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Spinning the stimulus
From: feeds.stateline.org
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Economists credit the federal stimulus package for helping bring an end to the recession. Most governors say the money prevented more drastic spending cuts and tax increases in their states. But a few Republican governors who took the money contend the stimulus was a mistake.
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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.
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and planning with investments and insurance choices.
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increase wealth accumulation and retention.
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creation and tracking of events.
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software, ongoing monitoring and updating of systems.
