As states slash budgets, business tax breaks survive
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Several states this year have tried getting rid of tax breaks that don’t create jobs and keeping the ones that do. That’s been harder than it sounds.
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AK: State begins own review of oil industry practices
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state of Alaska is reviewing its rules on offshore and "ultra-extended reach" drilling and may impose new requirements for relief wells on certain wells.
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AK: Alaska Sen. Mark Begich touts energy bills
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Sen. Mark Begich has introduced two more pieces of legislation seeking to make energy development safer in light of the Gulf oil spill.
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AK: Competing pipeline project to begin seeking bids
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Denali is set to start seeking shipping commitments for a major natural gas pipeline project in Alaska.
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AL: Advertiser Editorial -- Gambling funds flow in campaign
From: feeds.stateline.org
""We have the best government money can buy," Mark Twain joked.
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AR: State ends year with $23 million surplus
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Arkansas met its $4.4 billion budget for fiscal 2010 with $23.7 million left over, the state fiscal office reported Friday.
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AR: Network looks to limit farmers markets to homegrown products
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A five-year-old cooperative of small farms is looking to the Legislature to add a stamp of homegrown legitimacy to local produce markets statewide.
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AZ: Unemployment rate dips despite 125,000 jobs lost
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The economy lost a net 125,000 jobs in June for the first monthly loss this year. Yet the unemployment rate fell to 9.5 percent from 9.7 percent. How did that happen?
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AZ: Arizona lawmaker eyes special session on tax changes
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A Republican legislative leader says he's trying to corral support among fellow lawmakers for a summer special session to consider business tax cuts and job-creation tax incentives.
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AZ: Snowmaking gets green light
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Barring further legal action, Arizona Snowbowl has permission to make snow on the San Francisco Peaks.
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AZ: Boulder resolution tackles Ariz.'s immigration law
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Boulder, Colo., City Council will discuss whether to accept a resolution from its Human Relations Commission that condemns Arizona for its new immigration law and continues a ban on non-essential city travel to the state.
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AZ: Arizona liquor-sales law going out with little protest
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The last of Arizona's blue laws is going out with little objection as the deadline nears to legalize early Sunday morning alcohol sales, and merchants admit the change will probably be even more welcome to their customers than to them.
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CA: Taxing oil still a major issue
From: feeds.stateline.org
"As Jerry Brown began his first stint as governor 35 years ago, he almost immediately became entangled in a fierce battle over how the state's oil industry would be taxed.
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CA: How did state workers get in this mess?
From: feeds.stateline.org
"As politicians run for statewide office this year, we hear many of the same old myths about state government trotted out.
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CA: Senate lifts once-monthly furloughs for new fiscal year
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The same day that thrice-monthly furloughs officially ended for other state workers this week, the Senate decided to lift its requirement that aides with salaries above $50,000 take one unpaid day off per month.
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CA: State's food stamp cash-out policy no longer the best option for many aid recipients
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Leaning on a cane, Donjean Gardner eases open her fridge and surveys the contents: half a Subway sandwich, several boxes of tangerine juice, a jar of pickles and half a jar of salsa.
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CO: Amendment 61 would put tough limits on government borrowing for projects
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Whether it's roads, schools, prisons, colleges, hospitals or airports, you don't have to look far to find something built with money borrowed by state and local governments. Amendment 61, which Colorado voters will consider in November, could dramatically change that financing method.
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CT: Steel industry success illustrates broader factory rebound
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Andy Hunt, a salesman for NESSteel in Tolland, has witnessed the generation-long decline of factory work in the state, booking orders since 1979 from manufacturers buying metal to make parts.
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FL: Crist, legislators maneuver over oil spill special session
From: feeds.stateline.org
"As the BP oil blowout saturates Northwest Florida's already fragile economy with despair, a special legislative session in the coming weeks is becoming increasingly likely.
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FL: As oil gushed, BP quickly hired lawyers, scientists and experts to fight lawsuits
From: feeds.stateline.org
"In the immediate aftermath of the Deepwater Horizon disaster, BP publicly touted its expert oil cleanup response, but it quietly girded for a legal fight that could soon embroil hundreds of attorneys, span five states and last more than a decade.
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FL: Facts don't support Rep. Workman's estimate of Florida's illegal immigrant cost
From: feeds.stateline.org
"As Florida lawmakers prepare to introduce their own version of Arizona's strict immigration law, Republican state Rep. Ritch Workman has been championing the cause by painting the state's illegal immigrant population as the scourge of fiscal conservatism, business owners and taxpayers.
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FL: Heavy-hitting Tampa trial lawyer Steve Yerrid building legal team to take on BP
From: feeds.stateline.org
"TAMPA, Fla. — As legal battles over the gulf oil spill flow into Florida courts, a high-profile Tampa lawyer is emerging as a key figure, thanks to his friendship with Gov. Charlie Crist.
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FL: Firm Greene bought files for bankruptcy
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Democratic Senate candidate Jeff Greene is pitching himself to Florida voters as a successful businessman who knows how to create jobs.
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FL: More testing needed for giant oil skimmer
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Choppy seas have temporarily foiled attempts to see if a giant oil skimmer can be a silver bullet for cleanup efforts in the Gulf of Mexico.
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FL: Fish's love songs key to understand oil-spill impact on marine life
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Through the ages, balladeers have crooned soulfully about the romantic prospects of the full moon in June. But it turns out those sentiments are not unique to humans.
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HI: Lingle fails to give credit where tax-hike credit is due
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Hawaii now chugs into a new fiscal year, hoping that the twin engines of tourism and government spending will drive the economy forward.
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HI: Census worker taken to court for trespassing
From: feeds.stateline.org
"In these divisive times, Census worker Russell Haas has come to expect some resistance when he goes door to door to count the residents of the rugged communities near Hawaii's Kilauea volcano. He didn't expect to get arrested.
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HI: With Duke cuts, schools scrambling to meet budget
From: feeds.stateline.org
"This summer may be a financial nightmare for school districts across the region as they try to figure out how to pay to educate students amid a sluggish economy, dropping revenue and expected losses in state funding.
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IA: Iowa's Latino population grows despite recession, 2008 raid
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Iowa's Latino population is growing steadily, despite a competitive job market and tougher enforcement of immigration laws.
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IA: Henry's penalties from state now top $1 million
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state of Iowa is now pursuing more than $1 million in penalties against Henry's Turkey Service, the Texas labor broker that for decades housed dozens of disabled men in an Atalissa bunkhouse.
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IA: Planned oil refinery raises safety fears
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Iowa's top environmental official fears that a planned refinery in South Dakota will harm the health of Iowans and the state's plants and waterways.
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ID: Idaho food stamp rise doubles national average
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The increase in the number of Idaho residents receiving food stamps between March 2009 and March 2010 is more than double the national average, officials say.
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ID: Ethics panel to take up Idaho lawmaker's tax case
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A legislative ethics committee is poised to begin its investigation into whether a state lawmaker who refuses to pay income taxes used his position to gain special treatment.
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ID: Idaho high court says no tanning bed tax exemption
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Idaho Supreme Court says the owners of several Idaho tanning salons have to pay sales and use tax on their equipment.
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ID: State suspects swings in water temp in fish deaths
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state Department of Fish and Game says dramatic swings in water temperature are likely to blame for a recent string of fish deaths in two northern Idaho lakes.
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IL: Scary budgeting of Illinois' governors
From: feeds.stateline.org
""Let them wear Geneva Custom Shirts!" If Marie Antoinette were alive today -- assuming she hasn't returned in the person of Patti Blagojevich -- this might have been the French queen's reaction to the newest round of state budget cuts.
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IL: Minimum wage increase good for economy but stretches employers' budgets
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Much as it has the last three years, Illinois' minimum wage increased July 1.
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IL: 82,000 Illinoisans lose unemployment benefits
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Nearly 82,000 Illinoisans have run out of unemployment benefits since the end of May, some as the result of congressional failure to renew emergency aid and others because they have used up the maximum 99 weeks available.
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IL: Quinn cuts pass some expenses on to other levels of government
From: feeds.stateline.org
"When Gov. Pat Quinn signed a new state budget into law Thursday, he pushed a little more of the state's financial problems onto other levels of government -- which face their own shortfalls.
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IL: Subway restaurants still suffering from salmonella reports
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Sales continue to be down by one-third to one-half at Springfield-area Subway restaurants more than a month after dozens of Subways in central and northern Illinois threw out all vegetables suspected of causing a salmonella outbreak.
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IL: What's up (or down) with state spending
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Pat Quinn crafted this year's state budget with nearly unfettered power to spend taxpayer money and cut programs as he saw fit.
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IL: Illinois stops paying its bills, but can't stop digging hole
From: feeds.stateline.org
"CHICAGO — Even by the standards of this deficit-ridden state, Illinois's comptroller, Daniel W. Hynes, faces an ugly balance sheet. Precisely how ugly becomes clear when he beckons you into his office to examine his daily briefing memo.
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IN: Many Indiana dams in private hands, need improvement
From: feeds.stateline.org
"AVON, Ind. -- Hundreds of Indiana dams are in private hands and need improvement, but there's little the state -- or in some cases, the owners -- can do about it.
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IN: Corps -- No Asian carp here yet
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Northwest Indiana remains free of Asian carp, federal officials told the Post-Tribune Friday.
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IN: Feds, state announce plans for Tipton solar-panel plant
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Colorado-based Abound Solar will invest $500 million in an unfinished Tipton, Ind., plant that had once been set for making cars.
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IN: Stopping Asian carp could increase risk of flooding
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers reiterated concern this week that closing the locks on the Chicago Shipping and Sanitation Canal to prevent the release of Asian Carp into Lake Michigan and the Great Lakes could aggravate flooding in regional rivers and waterways, including the Little Calumet River.
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KS: Analysis -- Same issues for budget
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Declining state revenues, cuts in spending and drops in personal income contributed to the challenges that Democrat Gov. Mark Parkinson and the Republican-controlled Legislature faced.
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KS: Public hearing this week on utility rates
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Kansas utility regulators will be in Wichita on Wednesday to hear whether you want to pay more for natural gas service to fund energy conservation.
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KS: Kansas residents recover a record $14.6 million in unclaimed property
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state treasurer's office says Kansas residents recovered a record amount of unclaimed property from the state in the past year.
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KS: Kan. gets rural broadband money
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Three Kansas projects have been awarded a combined $11 million in federal stimulus funds to expand rural broadband service.
"
LA: Louisiana officials urge BP to speed claims payments
From: feeds.stateline.org
"CHAUVIN, La. -- The BP claims center here is housed in a former bar and dance hall complete with parquet wood floors, but there is little to celebrate.
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LA: State health chief weighs Aug. 1 rate cuts to Medicaid providers
From: feeds.stateline.org
"As the state's Medicaid rolls continue to climb, Louisiana's health agency will have $280 million less in this new budget year to cover the cost of care for patients. That fact spells trouble, according to Louisiana's health chief and officials of physician as well as hospital groups.
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LA: State to pay landowners to preserve coastal forests
From: feeds.stateline.org
"ST. MARY PARISH, La. — Cote Blanche Island is a little different from the surrounding marsh along the coast of Vermillion Bay.
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LA: Tar balls reach Lake Pontchartrain
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Showing just how unpredictable and all-consuming the massive Gulf oil spill can be, tar balls and small sheens of oil have entered Lake Pontchartrain and are hitting Texas shores for the first time.
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LA: Gulf oil gusher is 'enemy' to creole dishes
From: feeds.stateline.org
"NEW ORLEANS -- Celebrity Chef Frank Brigtsen coated the squid in a perfect blend of seasoned cornmeal then dropped the batch into a vat of oil at Charlie's Seafood, a beloved neighborhood joint.
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MA: Local aid cuts hit staffing, services
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Hundreds of city and town employees are being laid off across Massachusetts as the recently signed state budget forces communities to cut back on librarians, police, teachers, and other workers to balance the books.
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MA: Mass. casino debate heading behind closed doors
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The debate over casino gambling is heading behind closed doors. On Tuesday, legislative leaders are expected to name the appointees to a six-member conference committee charged with taking the Massachusetts House and Senate versions of the casino bill and drafting a final compromise. Those discussion aren't open to the public.
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MD: Homebuilding on the rise in the Baltimore area
From: feeds.stateline.org
"After the worst real estate slump in decades, something surprising is afoot with homebuilders. They're building homes.
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MD: Learn from senators -- Don't panic if stocks crash
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Senator Mikulski, you're supposed to buy low and sell high, not the other way around. You, too, Senator Cardin. Maryland's senators dumped stocks last year as the end of the world was forecast and the Dow Jones industrial average plunged below 6,600, according to recently available disclosures.
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MD: State legislature home to few business owners
From: feeds.stateline.org
"No one knows precisely how many small-business owners there are in the 188-seat Maryland General Assembly, but this much is clear: There aren't many. The number is so small, in fact, that a Democratic Business Caucus launched by Del. Galen Clagett a few years back never got off the ground.
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ME: New law values historic papers
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Changes in state law that took effect recently recognize any document of historic value as state, county or municipal property unless specifically relinquished by the government.
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ME: State lottery still setting sales records
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Preliminary figures indicate the Maine State Lottery continues to set sales records, with about $218 million in sales from all of its games for the budget year that ended June 30.
"
ME: Hearing on MMA rail line in Star City
From: feeds.stateline.org
"PRESQUE ISLE, Maine — As the state has not yet negotiated a deal to purchase the tracks, the federal Surface Transportation Board will hold a public hearing in Presque Isle on Wednesday to allow interested parties to comment on Montreal, Maine & Atlantic Railway's application to abandon the 233 miles of tracks that run through Aroostook and Penobscot counties.
"
ME: New Maine laws take effect on July 12
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Senior citizens will be in less danger of losing their homes because of unpaid taxes, consumers will gain more protection from scams, and motorists will have to be more careful when they approach emergency vehicles as of July 12.
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MI: House bill could push home care workers into unions
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state House appears to be helping foster unionization among self-employed Michigan service providers.
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MI: 400,000 Michigan workers may lose jobless aid this year
From: feeds.stateline.org
"For 35,000 jobless Michigan workers, this holiday weekend marks the start of a new set of worries: the sudden end of their unemployment benefits.
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MI: Towing battle inspires bill to shield public
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A legal brawl between a Kalamazoo college student and a towing company has caught the attention of a Michigan lawmaker who wants to amend pending legislation to protect consumers from so-called SLAPP lawsuits.
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MI: Casino, health care issues miss Michigan ballot
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Citizen petition drives to expand casino gaming in Michigan and to give individuals the right to opt out of federal health care regulation failed to meet Monday's deadline for submitting signatures to put the issues before voters in November.
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MN: Minnesota veterans struggle to find jobs
From: feeds.stateline.org
"You could say Chris Strong is one of the lucky ones.
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MO: Perspective -- Differences, amendments emerge in Special Session
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Special Session continued this week as the House considered and sent to the Senate two bills dealing with tax incentives and pension reform.
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MO: Incentives' track record raises doubts
From: feeds.stateline.org
"First there was the Ford factory in Hazelwood. Then Chrysler's twin production plants in Fenton. Next, a potential Bombardier airplane assembly shop in Kansas City.
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MO: Federal funds to help expand broadband in Mo.
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WASHINGTON- Broadband Internet access in rural parts of three Missouri counties will be expanded with federal stimulus funds totaling more than $38 million.
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MS: Not many visitors
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The crowds were missing from Mississippi coastal beaches this Fourth of July, with vendors, restaurant owners and lodging establishments feeling the loss of business.
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MT: Public employees' pension fund proposes changes
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The largest state and local government employees' pension fund has proposed some changes to turn around and stabilize its finances after its investment assets lost a fourth of their value during the market downturn in 2008 and 2009.
"
MT: Cheers for lean-year volunteers in Montana
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A new report showing that Montanans are among the most active volunteers in the nation probably won't surprise people in our state. Montanans are known for their generosity toward needy neighbors and community projects.
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MT: Montana delegation pushes EPA on Libby asbestos cleanup
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Montana's congressional delegation is seeking assurances from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency that the government will not leave the asbestos-contaminated town of Libby before its cleanup is complete.
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NC: Weedkiller sickens North Carolina's 'Mother Vine'
From: feeds.stateline.org
"For centuries, a massive grapevine has grown on the northern end of Roanoke Island, and long ago came to be called the Mother Vine.
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NC: Can N.C. legislature finish must-do tasks in time?
From: feeds.stateline.org
"With proposals unsettled on ethics, sweepstakes games and economic incentives, time is running out on the legislature.
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ND: Director -- North Dakota to finish with $800M surplus
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State budget director Pam Sharp says North Dakota should finish its two-year budget cycle with an $800 million surplus.
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ND: North Dakota's inland ocean
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The North Dakota landscape often is described as a patchwork quilt of farm fields, of crops separated by threads of rural roads a mile apart that stretch in the same direction for mile after mile.
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ND: N.D. May airline boardings up 13 percent
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Airline boardings at North Dakota's eight commercial airports in May were up 13 percent over May 2009.
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NE: Nebraska candidate lobs recorded insults in race
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A perennial candidate who's long used websites to settle personal disputes is now using automated calls to deliver insults against his opponent in the Omaha Public Power District board race.
"
NH: Municipalities press nonprofits for revenue
From: feeds.stateline.org
"More cities and towns are leaning on tax-exempt organizations -- from small arts groups to large hospitals -- to help balance cash-strapped municipal budgets.
"
NJ: New Jersey reaches compromise for 2 percent limit on local property-tax increases
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Democrats avoided the threat of a holiday legislative session today by agreeing in principle Saturday to a compromise to allow a 2 percent limit on local property-tax increases, lower than the 2.5 percent cap Gov. Chris Christie has sought.
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NJ: N.J. Gov. Christie and Senate Democrats agree on tax cap compromise
From: feeds.stateline.org
"After months of fighting over the issue, Gov. Chris Christie and Senate President Stephen Sweeney struck a deal Saturday to limit local property tax increases to 2 percent a year, with a handful of key exceptions.
"
NJ: State gaming panel has more time but many more thorny issues
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Issues that were not on the table when Gov. Chris Christie formed an advisory commission to revive New Jersey's gambling industries - including smaller Atlantic City casinos, online betting and changes to thoroughbred racing - expanded the commission's job as it worked to meet a June 30 reporting deadline.
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NJ: N.J. school districts avoid cuts in special education in budget crisis
From: feeds.stateline.org
"In as dismal a budget year as anyone can remember, with rising costs and steep cuts in state aid, school districts across New Jersey have looked for savings wherever they can find them.
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NJ: N.J. state parks to have fewer rangers due to budget cuts
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Budget cutting in Trenton has taken its toll on the operations of the 56 state parks and recreation areas, which welcome 17 million to 18 million visitors a year.
"
NJ: N.J. unemployment insurance fund lost $25M in fraudulent claims in last 2 years
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Fraudulent claims drained $25 million from the New Jersey unemployment-insurance program system each of the last two years and are on pace to cost even more this year, according to state records obtained by The Star-Ledger.
"
NM: Lawmaker says state faces $80 million shortfall; governor waiting for economists' projections
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Just days into the 2011 fiscal year, there's no agreement on just how the state budget for the next 12 months is shaping up, which will determine whether New Mexico faces more spending cuts and, eventually, the possibility of more tax hikes.
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NM: State still looking to trim and save
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State government has dropped its employee numbers by 6.5 percent since a 2008 hiring freeze took effect, but that doesn't mean lawmakers will ease up on scrutinizing vacant and exempt positions.
"
NV: State is first selected to take part in program to improve college success
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Nevada has been chosen as the first state to take part in a project designed to improve the nation's college graduation rates and elevate the status of its work force.
"
NV: Local, state government workers feel heat
From: feeds.stateline.org
"For years, most people who worked for state or local governments accepted a fact of life: Their pay wasn't great. The job security was.
"
NY: Look at who's making what where
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The first major report from the new Authorities Budget Office provides an accounting of how well New York's hundreds of state and local authorities are living by the laws laid down in a new reform package. It also gives a primer on the salary scales of state authorities -- including the percentage of top earners at each.
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NY: PCB cleanup extension sought
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Sometime after PCB dredges hit the Hudson River again next spring, officials at the state Canal Corp. hope to be part of the cleanup.
"
NY: Hearings set for Quebec power line
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The U.S. Department of Energy has scheduled public meetings on a proposed $3.8 billion power line running 420 miles from Quebec to Connecticut under Lake Champlain, the Hudson River and Long Island Sound.
"
NY: Report identifies state authorities with most $100k+ jobs
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Working for a public authority in New York state can be quite lucrative, according to the latest report of the Authorities Budget Office.
"
NY: Gambling fever
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gamblers aren't the only ones prone to jackpot delusions. Politicians all over see casinos as magic revenue chests that will help them avoid painful spending cuts, escape the trap of no-tax pledges and make budget gaps vanish. New York is no exception.
"
OH: Passenger rail plan laden with baggage
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Ted Strickland thinks his passenger rail plan for Ohio is chugging along quite nicely.
"
OH: Energy loan program proposed for regional turnaround
From: feeds.stateline.org
"MIAMISBURG, Ohio -- Steve Melink, owner of Melink Corp. of Milford, is concerned that political paralysis in Washington is keeping the United States behind in the transition to a renewable energy economy.
"
OH: 50,000 Ohio jobs linked to energy loan fund
From: feeds.stateline.org
"MIAMISBURG, Ohio -- A multibillion-dollar revolving loan fund could bring more than 50,000 jobs to Ohio and create a renewable energy economy, advocates say.
"
OH: Ohio pension funds lose as BP's stock drops
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Ohio's five public retirement systems and the state's injured worker fund have lost $177 million in value on BP stock.
"
OH: Ohio hamburger chain says insurance reform will bite into profits
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WASHINGTON, D.C. -- The White Castle hamburger chain fears that a health insurance reform law adopted earlier this year will put its profits on a downward slide.
"
OH: Lottery boasts record sales of $2.48 billion
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Ohio Lottery has had difficulties in the past couple of years: the resignation of an embattled director, a worse-than-expected debut of a major game, a lawsuit over a new contract, and on-again, off-again efforts by Gov. Ted Strickland and horse tracks to add lottery-run slot machines there.
"
OH: Ohio $500 million under 2010 spending estimate
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Thanks in large part to underspending on Medicaid and in other areas, state government ended the 2010 fiscal year Wednesday in the black with an unobligated ending balance of $139 million.
"
OH: After rush to start 3C rail, project slows
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Some 10 weeks after lawmakers approved a $25 million study of passenger rail service linking Ohio's largest cities, the state has yet to ink a contract with the firm picked to do the study, raising fresh questions about the 2011 goal for getting the trains running.
"
OK: Grasshoppers impact this year in Oklahoma uncertain
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The tan shoe descends upon the grass and suddenly the green blades come to life.
"
OK: New incentive program will be worth watching
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Brad Henry and key lawmakers spent much time this spring examining tax credits and economic incentive programs.
"
OR: Oregon foreclosure rate leaps 20 percent, leaving the state No. 3 in the country
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Along with grass seed, hazelnuts and Christmas trees, Oregon is increasingly finding itself a national leader in a more dubious bumper crop -- foreclosures.
"
OR: Record Columbia River sockeye run is a bounty for Northwest fishermen
From: feeds.stateline.org
"CASCADE LOCKS, Ore. -- Joe Bass shelters himself from the wind whipping through the parking lot of the Char Burger restaurant.
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OR: Thousands lose state emergency unemployment benefits
From: feeds.stateline.org
"About 3,000 Oregonians will lose their emergency unemployment benefits this week as state money for the extended program runs out.
"
PA: A long-range view -- Consider environment, infrastructure needs
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Pennsylvania is strategically located to reap a windfall associated with Marcellus Shale. But any mineral extraction strategy must be buffeted by balanced and sensible environmental stewardship and sane revenue strategies for the commonwealth.
"
PA: Pa. budget called a 'shell game'
From: feeds.stateline.org
"While lawmakers are still patting themselves on the backs for enacting a complete state budget on time for the first time in eight years, observers from all sides of the political spectrum contend that the July 1 deadline was met mainly because many critical and controversial issues weren't addressed.
"
PA: Pennsylvania snuffs tobacco taxes for second straight year
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Ed Rendell got some of what he was looking for in the $28.05 billion budget that lawmakers sent to him Wednesday: more money for public education and economic development and a promise from lawmakers to enact a tax on natural gas drillers this autumn.
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PA: Rendell gets $298M to dole out for state projects
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Ed Rendell gets $298 million to hand out for projects across the state during his final six months in office under legislation approved Saturday by the Senate and the House.
"
PA: Pennsylvania DUI aid leaves costs unmet
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Each year, millions of dollars in federal grants are funneled to police departments throughout Pennsylvania to staff DUI checkpoints and other highway safety programs.
"
PA: Budget's final pieces in place
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Rarely have three little words caused such a Capitol fuss. But the Legislature's effort to create an "Independent Fiscal Office" finally won approval, in concept, during an unusual Saturday session, as state lawmakers completed their work on a $28 billion budget for fiscal 2010-11 and headed home."
PA: Pennsylvania Senate bill would require stronger regulations on tanning by minors
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A newly approved state Senate bill, introduced by Sen. Patrick Browne, R-Lehigh County, would require tanning customers between 14 and 18 to have parental consent, and customers under 14 would be prohibited from using the services without a written physician's note.
"
PA: Pennsylvania's budget plan seen as 'house of cards'
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The General Assembly easily approved the state budget last week, and Gov. Ed Rendell is expected to sign it Tuesday. But lawmakers who voted against the measure — and even some who voted in favor of it — worry that the plan might be overly optimistic.
"
PA: Pennsylvania bill would give land near prison to Game Commission
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A bill to transfer ownership of 1,829 acres of central Pennsylvania land next to Rockview state prison is on its way to Gov. Ed Rendell.
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PA: Many questions remain on proposed Marcellus Shale extraction tax in Pennsylvania
From: feeds.stateline.org
"As part of the recent state budget agreement, Republican lawmakers have agreed to pass an extraction tax on gas from the Marcellus Shale by Oct. 1.
"
RI: Violet's group to back R.I. pro-business candidates
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The face of the Rhode Island Statewide Coalition's Business Network has become a little more familiar. Former talk radio host Arlene Violet will become the symbolic head of the political organization, dedicated to electing pro-business General Assembly candidates who will fight the influence of public sector unions.
"
SD: S.D. ranchers fear wilderness act steals control
From: feeds.stateline.org
"BUFFALO GAP NATIONAL GRASSLAND, S.D. -- A low carpet of greens and browns helps soften the landscape, the erosion that's carved steep wedges leading to gravel-filled creeks, where chalky waters flow like a melted vanilla malt.
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TN: Pilot merger fuels attacks on Haslam
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A $1.8 billion merger involving Republican gubernatorial hopeful Bill Haslam's family-owned Pilot Travel Centers LLC and Flying J Travel Plazas is fueling renewed criticism from other candidates over the Knoxville mayor's company's ties.
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TX: Officials say BP spill now hitting all Gulf states
From: feeds.stateline.org
"TEXAS CITY, Texas—Tar balls from the Gulf oil spill found on a Texas beach were the first evidence that gushing crude from the Deepwater Horizon well has reached all the Gulf states.
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US: The Connecticut-New York border war
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Hedge funds may be the all-purpose villains of Washington and Albany, but it seems a few politicians still like having them around as taxpayers.
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US: States struggle to stem false unemployment claims
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Already grappling with a surge in claims for unemployment insurance, recession-weary state labor departments are also now dealing with increased fraud.
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UT: Utah holds 'Fraud College' to fight scams
From: feeds.stateline.org
"LuElla Day was taken for nearly $1.25 million by a fellow member of her church. He told her he was investing in safe Treasury bonds but instead spent it on himself and to pay other investors he lured into a Ponzi scheme.
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UT: Utah school for disabled to lay off workers
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The State Developmental Center in American Fork will lay off up to 45 workers in upcoming weeks because of a $6 million budget cut.
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UT: Utah company reopening iron mine near Cedar City
From: feeds.stateline.org
"After several setbacks, a Utah mining company says it will finally sell iron ore to a steel maker in China, helping boost this southern Utah town's fortunes.
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VA: Webb -- Safeguard offshore rigs from terror
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Oil derricks may not be sprouting anytime soon off the Virginia coast because of the BP blowout, but the state's senior U.S. senator says those operating elsewhere must be protected from another threat: terrorism.
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VA: 5,000 of Va. non-profits could lose tax-exempt status
From: feeds.stateline.org
"As many as 5,000 Virginia organizations could lose their tax-exempt status this year because they haven't filed with the Internal Revenue Service in three years, according to June figures from the IRS.
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VA: Virginia's food carts must follow health laws, too
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Outside VCU Medical Center at North 11th and East Marshall streets in downtown Richmond, clusters of food carts hawk everything from cheesesteak sandwiches to sesame pasta to crusted tilapia each day to hordes of professionals. Some people may avoid food carts out of concern for the safety of the food, but the mobile-food industry in Virginia is not without a watchdog.
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VA: Norfolk losing millions on unpaid property taxes
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The city has a huge backlog of seriously delinquent properties, due to lax collection practices and an outdated tax sale system. Hundreds of homeowners and land owners haven't paid property taxes in years - some in decades, leaving the city out of $13 million that could ease budget problems.
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VT: Power line proposed for under Lake Champlain
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A Toronto-based company is seeking federal permits for a $3.8 billion Quebec-New York City transmission line that involves burying four, 5-inch cables in the bed of Lake Champlain. The Champlain-Hudson Power Express project would carry up to 2,000 megawatts of renewable electricity, providing a major new conduit between energy-rich eastern Canada and energy-hungry southern New England and New York.
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WA: Puget Sound Partnership gets spending help
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A state agency that misspent money intended for cleaning up Puget Sound has developed the outlines of a plan for cleaning up its act. The solution hasn't involved firing anyone, but it does include hiring.
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WI: Chapter 128 filings on the rise in Wisconsin
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Debtors who can't get ahead of their bills and want to avoid bankruptcy enjoy a unique alternative in Wisconsin -- and they're using it in record-breaking numbers.
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WY: No reason to turn down all health care grants
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Dave Freudenthal is right to ignore demands from tea party activists who want him to say no to all grants available to the state of Wyoming under the federal health care reform law. We hope his successor follows the same policy.
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WY: Wyoming explores promotion of niche attractions for tourists
From: feeds.stateline.org
"More than 3 million people visit Yellowstone National Park each year. But some state officials are convinced that there are riches in the niches for many overlooked Wyoming tourist spots if promoters can attract "rut nuts" and "culture vultures."
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WY: Wyoming threatens to sell prime Grand Teton land
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Wyoming is trying to force the Interior Department to trade land, minerals or mineral royalties for 1,366 acres it owns within the majestic park. If the foot-dragging feds don't agree to a deal — soon — Freudenthal threatens to put a For Sale sign on the property.
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WY: U.S. announces $545K in water funding for Wyoming ag lands
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The federal government plans to spend nearly $20 million in 10 states including Wyoming to help farmers and ranchers conserve water and improve water quality on agricultural lands.
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WY: State suspends tax at gun shows
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Wyoming Department of Revenue has suspended sales tax collections from gun shows because of increasing animosity toward the state's field tax agents.
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WY: Wyoming governor puts slice of national park on the market
From: feeds.stateline.org
"MOOSE, Wyo. -- For sale: two square miles of Grand Teton National Park. Majestic views of the Teton Range. Prime location for luxury resort, home development. Pristine habitat for moose, elk, wolves, grizzlies. Price: $125 million. Call: Gov. Dave Freudenthal.
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Industry lobbying turns soda taxes from fizzy to flat
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The beverage industry’s fight against soda taxes shows how far an industry will go to keep its products from being lumped with alcohol, tobacco and others subject to so-called “sin taxes.”
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Visit the Stateline.org Economy & Business Page
From: feeds.stateline.org
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Proactive tax planning to take advantage of timely tax saving opportunities.
Comprehensive business services that integrate income tax compliance
and planning with investments and insurance choices.
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increase wealth accumulation and retention.
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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.
