|
|
Archive of Stateline.org RSS - State by State Roundup on Wednesday June 15, 2005
Officials prepare for `viable threat' to state agriculture
Alabama is preparing for the possibility of a crippling agriculture disaster caused by terrorism, an accident or a natural outbreak of disease, officials said Tuesday. [The Birmingham News] Read More
Tourism official - State travel rules stunt business
Alabama hotels would get more convention business if the state changes how it pays for employee travel, according to one Baldwin County tourism official. [Mobile Register] Read More
CAFTA gets push in Alabama
WASHINGTON - Alabama has become a front line in the congressional battle over free trade because many of the state's normally loyal Republicans continue to express doubt over the latest international agreement backed by President Bush. [The Birmingham News] Read More
Panel tackles regional stigma
The South has a lot to be proud of -- a growing economy, some of the most technologically advanced farmers in the world, and a "marvelous" culture -- but it still carries the stigmas of anti-intellectualism and racism, panelists said Tuesday at the Summit on the Rural South in Point Clear. [Mobile Register] Read More
Public college tuition keeps on the rise Auburn, Alabama have increases on agenda
Students at the University of Alabama and Auburn University could face higher college costs this fall, if trustees approve increases on Friday. [Mobile Register] Read More
Federal panel looks into Internet deals
A lucrative contract to connect most of Alabama's public school systems to the Internet was under the microscope of a federal grand jury here Tuesday, as the long-running probe of former Gov. Don Siegelman's administration continued. [Mobile Register] Read More
Bush opposes Louisiana's bid for oil royalties
WASHINGTON - The Bush administration on Tuesday said it opposes sharing offshore oil and gas royalties with coastal states, a significant setback for Louisiana's effort to secure federal financing to restore its battered coastline. [The Times-Picayune (New Orleans)] Read More
The Alabama Legislature - What have they accomplished?
In the 2004 regular session, legislators introduced more than 1,200 bills, and passed 197. [The Huntsville Times] Read More
Hearing puts Fairbanks in national spotlight
Communities affected by the Defense Department's plan to close 33 major bases and substantially reduce 29 more will be watching today when Fairbanks hosts the first regional hearing of the Base Realignment and Closure Commission. [Daily News-Miner (Fairbanks)] Read More
Senate bill seeks to boost reserves of dwindling federal oil-spill fund
A federal oil spill response fund created after the 1989 Exxon Valdez spill will run dry by 2009 unless more money is invested in it, according to the Coast Guard, which administers the fund. [The Juneau Empire] Read More
Bush opposes Louisiana's bid for oil royalties
WASHINGTON - The Bush administration on Tuesday said it opposes sharing offshore oil and gas royalties with coastal states, a significant setback for Louisiana's effort to secure federal financing to restore its battered coastline. [The Times-Picayune (New Orleans)] Read More
Berkowitz to run for governor in 2006
House Minority Leader Ethan Berkowitz, D-Anchorage, has filed to run for governor in the 2006 election. [Daily News-Miner (Fairbanks)] Read More
BRAC hearing today at Carlson Center
Local residents planning to attend today's regional hearing of the Base Realignment and Closure Commission on the future of Eielson Air Force Base should be prepared to arrive early. [Daily News-Miner (Fairbanks)] Read More
Western governors talk energy
BRECKENRIDGE, Colo. - Kennecott Energy Co. plans to cut its Wyoming coal mine pollution by 8 percent over five years, the company's president and chief executive said Tuesday. [Casper Star-Tribune] Read More
Huckabee recommends four projects for Delta funding
Gov. Mike Huckabee on Tuesday recommended four Arkansas Delta projects split $650,857 in funds from a federal program aimed at spurring economic development in the poverty-stricken Delta region. [Arkansas News Bureau] Read More
Arkansas' labor force loses 1,700 workers to unemployment rolls in May
Arkansas' jobless rate rose one-tenth of a percentage point to 5.0 percent in May as the number of unemployed workers climbed by 1,700, state labor officials said Tuesday. [Arkansas Democrat-Gazette (Little Rock)] Read More
State labor officials seek federal funds for possible base closings
The Arkansas Employment Security Department said Tuesday that it recently applied for a $1 million federal grant to help the state plan for possible closings and realignments at military bases in Arkansas and northeast Texas. [Arkansas News Bureau] Read More
Energy goals - clean, local
Speaking at the last day of the Western Governors' Association annual conference, [U.S. Energy Secretary Samuel] Bodman said the country must decrease its reliance on international supplies of oil and develop alternative energy sources such as solar, wind and nuclear power. [Denver Post] Read More
Education director to become highest paid department head on July 1
The state's education director will become Arkansas' highest paid department chief with a salary of at least $204,620 on July 1, the beginning of the state's new fiscal year. [Arkansas Democrat-Gazette (Little Rock)] Read More
Beebe joins race for governor
Arkansas Attorney General Mike Beebe finally announced Tuesday that he's running for governor in 2006, saying in campaign stops across the state that his goal is to "make the best of Arkansas available to everyone." [Arkansas Democrat-Gazette (Little Rock)] Read More
Democrat joins high court
Gov. Janet Napolitano picked a longtime legal and political ally Tuesday for the Arizona Supreme Court, putting her stamp on a court that may soon have the final say in such topics as gay marriage and publicly financed elections. [The Arizona Republic (Phoenix)] Read More
Arizona Indian casinos hit big jackpot
Gamblers plunked more than $7.6 billion into Arizona's tribal casino slot machines, video poker and blackjack games last year, according to new figures released today. [Arizona Daily Star (Tucson)] Read More
An open invitation
Statewide, 28 percent of stolen vehicles had the keys in them, making this the second most common way for thieves to steal cars in Arizona. [The Arizona Republic (Phoenix)] Read More
A primary in the West?
BRECKENRIDGE, Colo. - The West could become a key player in the next presidential election under an initiative being pushed by Gov. Jon Huntsman Jr. [Deseret Morning News (Salt Lake City)] Read More
Western governors talk energy
BRECKENRIDGE, Colo. - Kennecott Energy Co. plans to cut its Wyoming coal mine pollution by 8 percent over five years, the company's president and chief executive said Tuesday. [Casper Star-Tribune] Read More
AIMS isn't bringing rise in dropouts
The state's dropout rate does not appear to be increasing, despite fears raised by critics of the AIMS test. [Arizona Daily Star (Tucson)] Read More
M.D. numbers in state below U.S. average
The number of physicians working in Arizona grew faster over the last 10 years than the state's burgeoning population, but the state still lags behind the national average, according to a new report. [Arizona Daily Star (Tucson)] Read More
Energy goals - clean, local
Speaking at the last day of the Western Governors' Association annual conference, [U.S. Energy Secretary Samuel] Bodman said the country must decrease its reliance on international supplies of oil and develop alternative energy sources such as solar, wind and nuclear power. [Denver Post] Read More
Beebe joins race for governor
Arkansas Attorney General Mike Beebe finally announced Tuesday that he's running for governor in 2006, saying in campaign stops across the state that his goal is to "make the best of Arkansas available to everyone." [Arkansas Democrat-Gazette (Little Rock)] Read More
Huckabee recommends four projects for Delta funding
Gov. Mike Huckabee on Tuesday recommended four Arkansas Delta projects split $650,857 in funds from a federal program aimed at spurring economic development in the poverty-stricken Delta region. [Arkansas News Bureau] Read More
Money-stealing schemes popping up in Arkansas
Internet and mail scammers are blending new materials with old tricks to steal money from Arkansans, and their elusiveness leaves law enforcement agencies with limited options to pursue them. [Arkansas Democrat-Gazette (Little Rock)] Read More
State labor officials seek federal funds for possible base closings
The Arkansas Employment Security Department said Tuesday that it recently applied for a $1 million federal grant to help the state plan for possible closings and realignments at military bases in Arkansas and northeast Texas. [Arkansas News Bureau] Read More
Arkansas' labor force loses 1,700 workers to unemployment rolls in May
Arkansas' jobless rate rose one-tenth of a percentage point to 5.0 percent in May as the number of unemployed workers climbed by 1,700, state labor officials said Tuesday. [Arkansas News Bureau] Read More
Education director to become highest paid department head on July 1
The state's education director will become Arkansas' highest paid department chief with a salary of at least $204,620 on July 1, the beginning of the state's new fiscal year. [Arkansas News Bureau] Read More
Legislator free to accept job lobbying Congress, panel says
State laws under the Arkansas Ethics Commission's jurisdiction don't prohibit a state legislator from accepting a job involving some lobbying of Congress, the commission said in an opinion requested by state Rep. Travis Boyd, D-Piggott. [Arkansas Democrat-Gazette (Little Rock)] Read More
Panel tackles regional stigma
The South has a lot to be proud of -- a growing economy, some of the most technologically advanced farmers in the world, and a "marvelous" culture -- but it still carries the stigmas of anti-intellectualism and racism, panelists said Tuesday at the Summit on the Rural South in Point Clear. [Mobile Register] Read More
State workers need health incentives
There was something missing from a recent report by the National Governors Association on what states are doing to promote health and fitness among their employees. [Tallahassee Democrat] Read More
State budget battle fizzles
The Democrats who control the Legislature have abandoned their effort to add billions of dollars in programs to the governor's proposed state budget, and are preparing to vote for a spending plan with no new taxes and no extra money for schools. [Los Angeles Times (registration)] Read More
Arnold booed at alma mater
Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger's return to his alma mater turned into an exercise in perseverance when virtually his every word was accompanied by catcalls, howls and piercing whistles from the crowd. [CBSNews.com] Read More
Partisan price tags attached to special election
The good news about the cost of the special election ordered by Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger is that it isn't expected to cost taxpayers the $80 million originally estimated. The bad news is it will cost more than the $45 million touted by the governor. [The Orange County Register] Read More
Texas now 2nd to California in undocumented residents
Texas surpassed New York in 2004 to become the No. 2 state for undocumented residents - California is No. 1 - according to "Unauthorized Migrants: Numbers and Characteristics," prepared by the Pew Hispanic Center, a nonpartisan research group in Washington. [The San Antonio Express-News (registration)] Read More
Western governors talk energy
BRECKENRIDGE, Colo. - Kennecott Energy Co. plans to cut its Wyoming coal mine pollution by 8 percent over five years, the company's president and chief executive said Tuesday. [Casper Star-Tribune] Read More
Report- California plan to join 11-state lotto game illegal
LOS ANGELES - California is set to become the 12th state in the multistate Mega Millions lottery game, but a legal opinion issued by state officials could put a damper on those plans. [Contra Costa Times (registration)] Read More
Opening of new prison marks end of era in California
DELANO, Calif. - California was set to open what may be its last big prison Wednesday to the first dozen of at least 5,000 maximum security inmates, marking the end of a decades-long prison-building binge. For the first time in years, there are no new prisons planned or under construction anywhere in the state. [The San Diego Union-Tribune] Read More
Special election likely to affect state budget as deadline nears
The state Legislature has failed to pass a budget by the constitutional deadline for the past 18 years, and lawmakers on both sides say there was little hope that would change Wednesday. [The San Diego Union-Tribune] Read More
Ballot measure threat to Democrats
Arnold Schwarzenegger has battled some formidable on-screen foes in his lifetime, from merciless Terminators to dastardly dictators. [The Mercury News (San Jose) (registration)] Read More
Mad cow computer modeling finds infection spreads rapidly
DAVIS, Calif. - Researchers at the University of California, Davis are trying to explain how mad cow disease acts so frighteningly fast using an unconventional tool - mathematical modeling. [The San Diego Union-Tribune] Read More
Westly will join governor's race
State Controller Steve Westly, a Democrat who last year toured with Republican Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger as a staunch supporter of his effort to restructure state debt, Saturday will announce his bid to run for the governor's job. [The Sacramento Bee (registration)] Read More
Governor cites Prop. 13 to open election drive
SANTEE, Calif. - Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger, in his first public appearance since calling a Nov. 8 special election, came to this working-class community near San Diego on Tuesday to campaign against a property tax increase hardly anybody is pushing. [The Sacramento Bee (registration)] Read More
Youth Authority seeing red
Even though its population is decreasing, the California Youth Authority has blown its budget this year by nearly 10 percent, partly because of what the top correctional official in the state called "a lack of fiscal controls and budgetary expertise." [The Sacramento Bee (registration)] Read More
Energy goals - clean, local
Speaking at the last day of the Western Governors' Association annual conference, [U.S. Energy Secretary Samuel] Bodman said the country must decrease its reliance on international supplies of oil and develop alternative energy sources such as solar, wind and nuclear power. [Denver Post] Read More
Medi-Cal growth 'unsustainable'
Medi-Cal costs are likely to rise faster than state revenue and could consume one out of every five dollars the state spends by 2015, according to a study the Public Policy Institute of California released Tuesday. [The Sacramento Bee (registration)] Read More
Tsunami warning rattles West Coast
An earthquake with a preliminary magnitude of 7.0 struck Tuesday off the coast of Northern California shortly before 8 p.m., prompting authorities to issue rolling tsunami warnings for coastal areas from Alaska to the Mexican border. [Los Angeles Times (registration)] Read More
California reins in clinics using marijuna for medical purposes
Even before the United States Supreme Court last week upheld federal authority over marijuana, even in states where its use for medical purposes is legal, city officials, dispensary owners and medical marijuana advocates in San Francisco had begun questioning how much of the drug was enough. [The New York Times (registration)] Read More
Appeals court: Borders must pay Calif. tax on online sales
SAN FRANCISCO - An appellate court ruling against Borders Group (BGP) sets a precedent that could enable California to force some major Internet retailers to start paying state sales tax for books, music and other goods sold online to state residents. [USA Today] Read More
Pomp and conflicting stances
Graduating students mostly cheered, but some audience members booed Tuesday as Arnold Schwarzenegger returned to one of his alma maters, Santa Monica College, to deliver his first commencement address as governor of California. [Los Angeles Times (registration)] Read More
California could be golden for 12-state Mega Millions
HAWTHORNE, Calif. - At Bluebird Liquors, where there's almost always a line to buy lottery tickets, owner Frank Kumamoto is eagerly awaiting California's entry into the multistate Mega Millions game. [USA Today] Read More
Illegal population flows to Southeast
WASHINGTON - Illegal immigrants are moving in unprecedented numbers to the southeastern United States, choosing that area over traditional "destination states" such as California, according to a study released Tuesday. [Los Angeles Times (registration)] Read More
Major quake strikes off coast of northern California
SAN FRANCISCO - A major earthquake struck about 80 miles off the coast of northern California on Tuesday night, briefly prompting a tsunami warning along the Pacific coast. [USA Today] Read More
CU budget cuts proposed
State officials moved Tuesday to cut the University of Colorado budget in a bid to block CU tuition hikes of as much as 28 percent for some in-state students this fall. [Denver Post] Read More
Vocational watchdog lax
State regulators granted licenses to every massage, beauty and trucking school that requested one from 2001 to 2004, including schools that lacked basic health and financial safeguards and two that employed no certified teachers. [Rocky Mountain News (Denver)] Read More
Private prisons in state's future despite problems found in audit
Despite an audit that found numerous flaws at privately run prisons in Colorado, the number of inmates held in them will likely more than double in the next four years, officials said. [Denver Post] Read More
A primary in the West?
BRECKENRIDGE, Colo. - The West could become a key player in the next presidential election under an initiative being pushed by Gov. Jon Huntsman Jr. [Deseret Morning News (Salt Lake City)] Read More
Western governors talk energy
BRECKENRIDGE, Colo. - Kennecott Energy Co. plans to cut its Wyoming coal mine pollution by 8 percent over five years, the company's president and chief executive said Tuesday. [Casper Star-Tribune] Read More
Energy goals - clean, local
Speaking at the last day of the Western Governors' Association annual conference, [U.S. Energy Secretary Samuel] Bodman said the country must decrease its reliance on international supplies of oil and develop alternative energy sources such as solar, wind and nuclear power. [Denver Post] Read More
Shorter waits at DMV
Waiting for a Colorado driver's license used to be a bring-a-book proposition. Now, a good magazine might do it. [Rocky Mountain News (Denver)] Read More
5 sex offenders received Viagra
Five sex offenders in Colorado were given Viagra and other erectile-dysfunction drugs over the last two years through Medi caid reimbursement, according to an internal state review. The total cost to taxpayers was $2,013. [Denver Post] Read More
Rell vetoes junk food bill
Gov. M. Jodi Rell vetoed one of the legislative session's most intensely lobbied bills Tuesday, a measure that would have given Connecticut the nation's broadest restrictions on the sale of sugary sodas and fatty snacks in schools. [The Hartford Courant (registration)] Read More
State resists move of jets
State leaders say the federal government has no right to remove the Connecticut Air National Guard's warplanes without the governor's consent - and the governor is not consenting. [The Hartford Courant (registration)] Read More
Ethics panel uncertain how long it has
The State Ethics Commission, facing dissolution under recent reform legislation but unsure just when its last day will be, met Tuesday to address a last major case: a pending complaint against Capitol lobbyist Linda Kowalski. [The Hartford Courant (registration)] Read More
A not-so-sweet syrup season in NH
The cold spring is being blamed for this year's decline in maple syrup production across New England. [The Union Leader (Manchester)] Read More
AG says 1994 agreement requires feds to pay for base cleanup
Nine years ago, Connecticut hammered out an agreement with the federal government requiring the Department of Defense to clean up all the contamination on the U.S. Navy Submarine Base in Groton, Connecticut's attorney general said Tuesday. [New Haven Register (registration)] Read More
Rell vetoes junk-food limit in Connecticut's public schools
Gov. M. Jodi Rell exercised her veto powers on Tuesday for only the third time, rejecting a bill that would have restricted the sale of some snack foods and beverages in all public schools and required a minimum of 100 minutes a week of recess for younger students. [The New York Times (registration)] Read More
Stem-cell bill clears Del. Senate
After nearly three hours of debate about when life begins and the possibility of cures for some of mankind's most difficult diseases, the Delaware Senate voted 14-7 on Tuesday to permit regulated research using embryonic stem cells. [The News Journal (New Castle-Wilmington)] Read More
Late summer school notice alters plans
Joey Lagano had his summer mapped out. First was a weeklong family trip to Disney World, then several weeks in Florida with his ailing grandfather. [The News Journal (New Castle-Wilmington)] Read More
Members visit Legislative Hall
"4-H!" "4-H!" "4-H!" chanted a lawn full of youths Tuesday afternoon as they rallied in front of Legislative Hall. [Delaware State News (Dover)] Read More
Senate OKs stem cell bill - Opponents cite right to life
Legislation that would lay out guidelines to govern embryonic stem cell research in Delaware won approval in the state Senate on a 14-7 vote Tuesday after nearly three hours of debate that drew more than 100 spectators. [Delaware State News (Dover)] Read More
Bush remains mum about potential political plans
Gov. Jeb Bush, the Miami developer turned the most powerful governor in Florida history, said Tuesday that he does not know what he will do with his life once his second term in office ends in January 2007. [Tallahassee Democrat] Read More
Bush, Seminoles to start negotiations over slot machines
Gov. Jeb Bush and the Seminoles have agreed to begin negotiating over slot machines at the tribe's six gambling facilities, the two sides said Tuesday. [Tallahassee Democrat] Read More
Bush signs new law to sideline street racers
Racing on public streets could cost drivers their cars under a new law signed Tuesday by Gov. Jeb Bush. [Tallahassee Democrat] Read More
Crist plays Trump card in bid for governor
NEW YORK - Billionaire Donald Trump left no doubt Tuesday night who he wants to be Florida's next governor. [St. Petersburg Times] Read More
Schiavo autopsy report to be released today
Nearly 11 weeks after Terri Schiavo died, the Pinellas County medical examiner plans to release its report on her autopsy today. [St. Petersburg Times] Read More
Child advocates alarmed by revisions in DCF report
MIAMI - Advocates for abused and neglected children say they are concerned that key passages were removed from a child welfare consultant's report on a sharp decline in the number of Miami families that receive state services. [St. Petersburg Times] Read More
Widow wins special election for seat of representative who died
Republican Marti Coley won a special election Tuesday to take her late husband's seat in the Florida House of Representatives. [Tallahassee Democrat] Read More
State workers need health incentives
There was something missing from a recent report by the National Governors Association on what states are doing to promote health and fitness among their employees. [Tallahassee Democrat] Read More
NASA wants FAU's supersharp video
BOCA RATON, Fla. - In the near future, when a space shuttle returns to orbit, expect Florida Atlantic University's pride to soar with it. [The Orlando Sentinel (registration)] Read More
Bush counts his what-ifs, both public and personal
Yes, Gov. Jeb Bush does have some regrets after all. [St. Petersburg Times] Read More
Lawsuit may pit city against state
Attorneys for the state and the City and County of Honolulu plan to meet next week with lawyers representing a Florida man challenging a law that requires applicants for most state and county jobs to be Hawaii residents at the time they apply. [Honolulu Star-Bulletin] Read More
State to get bids for health plan
Some state employees may have to choose new doctors because of cost-cutting changes to their state-funded health insurance plan. [The Atlanta Journal-Constitution (registration)] Read More
Safety gaps seen in rural locales
MOULTRIE, Ga. - Rural counties will have an especially tough time making judicial buildings secure enough to prevent the kind of violence that struck the Fulton County Courthouse in March, experts said Tuesday. [The Atlanta Journal-Constitution (registration)] Read More
Panel tackles regional stigma
The South has a lot to be proud of -- a growing economy, some of the most technologically advanced farmers in the world, and a "marvelous" culture -- but it still carries the stigmas of anti-intellectualism and racism, panelists said Tuesday at the Summit on the Rural South in Point Clear. [Mobile Register] Read More
State workers need health incentives
There was something missing from a recent report by the National Governors Association on what states are doing to promote health and fitness among their employees. [Tallahassee Democrat] Read More
Lawsuit may pit city against state
Attorneys for the state and the City and County of Honolulu plan to meet next week with lawyers representing a Florida man challenging a law that requires applicants for most state and county jobs to be Hawaii residents at the time they apply. [Honolulu Star-Bulletin] Read More
Party's over at state harbors, parks
Beginning tomorrow, state parks and boat harbors will no longer be party central for underage or adult drinkers, nor will they serve as a place to buy or use illicit drugs, a group of state officials led by Lt. Gov. James "Duke" Aiona pledged yesterday. [Honolulu Advertiser] Read More
China sanctions Hawaii trade office
BEIJING - The state of Hawaii marked the establishment of an official trade and tourism office in China yesterday with a hula and Hawaiian music performance at the seat of communist power. [Honolulu Star-Bulletin] Read More
Officials defend 'residents only' rule
A state law that requires those who apply for state and county jobs to be Hawai'i residents allows government to consider whether applicants are former residents, are applying to be police officers or are seeking hard-to-fill jobs. [Honolulu Advertiser] Read More
Lingle challenger has yet to appear
In about two months, Hawaii Democrats should have a clear picture of who will run for governor against Republican Linda Lingle, according to Brickwood Galuteria, Democratic Party chairman. [Honolulu Star-Bulletin] Read More
Idaho argues against moving planes to Wyo
BOISE, Idaho - Idaho needs its wing of Air National Guard cargo planes to stay in Boise for emergency airlifting and future firefighting chores, Gov. Dirk Kempthorne will tell a panel reviewing the Pentagon's decision to send the planes to Wyoming. [Casper Star-Tribune] Read More
Legal challenges loom in wake of salmon ruling
Both sides are preparing to go back to court in the wake of a federal judge's decision Friday that orders federal agencies to spill $67 million in water over dams on the Columbia and Snake rivers. [The Idaho Statesman (Boise)] Read More
Western governors talk energy
BRECKENRIDGE, Colo. - Kennecott Energy Co. plans to cut its Wyoming coal mine pollution by 8 percent over five years, the company's president and chief executive said Tuesday. [Casper Star-Tribune] Read More
Idaho's Catholic bishop says he has learned from mistakes he made handling a sexual misconduct case in Boise
Next time, Idaho Catholic Bishop Michael Driscoll says, he'll be more decisive. [The Idaho Statesman (Boise)] Read More
Energy goals - clean, local
Speaking at the last day of the Western Governors' Association annual conference, [U.S. Energy Secretary Samuel] Bodman said the country must decrease its reliance on international supplies of oil and develop alternative energy sources such as solar, wind and nuclear power. [Denver Post] Read More
Budget dealing was put in writing
The state's human services director signed a $25,000 agreement with the director of a Chicago YMCA. The state's emergency services director signed a pledge with Utica's mayor to provide $100,000 to help rebuild the tornado ravaged village hall in central Illinois. [Chicago Tribune (registration)] Read More
State will post surgery prices
Patients will be able to shop around more easily among health care providers before choosing where to have outpatient surgery in Illinois, under a measure Gov. Rod Blagojevich signed into law on Tuesday. [Chicago Tribune (registration)] Read More
Schools expel minorities more
The Springfield School District compares somewhat favorably to a recent statewide investigation by a Chicago suburban newspaper of public school expulsions and suspensions by race. [The State Journal-Register (Springfield)] Read More
RTA chief says CTA woes real
The Chicago Transit Authority's fiscal problems are legitimate and more money is needed for mass transportation, but to earn it, the transit boards need to streamline operations and develop a more regional system, the new Regional Transportation Authority chairman said Tuesday. [Chicago Tribune (registration)] Read More
State still waiting on time-zone hearings
Washington has yet to respond to Gov. Mitch Daniels' request to hold hearings in Indiana on where the line separating the Central and Eastern time zones should be drawn. [The Indianapolis Star] Read More
Court blocks records seizure
State investigators cannot seize patient records from Planned Parenthood of Indiana clinics pending an appeal of a lower court ruling, the Indiana Court of Appeals has ruled. [The Indianapolis Star] Read More
Execution order is given for killer of 4
The Indiana Supreme Court on Tuesday ordered the execution of Joseph E. Corcoran, 30, a mentally ill man who waived his state appeal rights and then tried to reconsider. [The Indianapolis Star] Read More
IU expands program to encourage black students to attend college
Indiana University is expanding its partnership with Indiana Black Expo to encourage more black students to attend college. [The Indianapolis Star] Read More
State adds area BMV sites to list
Hot on the heels of nine license branch closures, the Bureau of Motor Vehicles announced Monday that it wants to close 24 more, including branches in Walkerton, North Judson and Syracuse. [South Bend Tribune] Read More
State government shutdown could slow plant permits
An air-quality permit has been obtained in Indiana by Mesabi Nugget, which might position that state ahead of Minnesota as the site for a $130 million iron nugget plant. [Duluth News Tribune] Read More
Time zone forums floated
Gov. Mitch Daniels has recommended that the federal government conduct eight to 10 public hearings in or near the state's bigger cities, including Fort Wayne, to help it determine whether time zone boundaries in Indiana should be moved. [The Journal Gazette (Fort Wayne)] Read More
State workers need health incentives
There was something missing from a recent report by the National Governors Association on what states are doing to promote health and fitness among their employees. [Tallahassee Democrat] Read More
Iowa's new sex offender law is tough -- but costly
Iowa is about to start enforcing some of the strongest laws in the nation to protect children from pedophiles, but the effort is going to cost millions of dollars a year. [The Des Moines Register] Read More
Vilsack approves pay raises for himself, legislators
Gov. Tom Vilsack signed a state salary bill Tuesday that contains double-digit pay increases for himself and Iowa lawmakers. [The Des Moines Register] Read More
Edwards visits Iowa in his fight against poverty
Former North Carolina U.S. Sen. John Edwards told an Iowa audience Tuesday that fighting poverty means convincing Americans the effort is a "great moral cause'' worth engaging. [Quad-City Times] Read More
Officials -- Signs check unneeded
State transportation officials say they have no plans for an in-depth inspection of traffic signs following the death of a Carlisle teenager who apparently trusted the direction of an upside-down one-way sign and was killed in an accident. [The Des Moines Register] Read More
Activist vows fight against gambling's growth
A national anti-gambling leader, who quipped he was fighting "behind enemy lines" Tuesday, told Iowans they can win a battle against the growth of the state's powerful gambling industry. [The Des Moines Register] Read More
Regents hold off comment on tuition hike
The state Board of Regents will wait a month before discussing a midyear tuition increase at the three state universities. [Sioux City Journal] Read More
Vilsack OKs tougher sex-abuse legislation
DES MOINES, Iowa - Gov. Tom Vilsack on Tuesday signed legislation that toughens sentences for those who sexually abuse children, along with closer supervision after those offenders get out of prison. [Omaha World-Herald (registration)] Read More
'Toughest' sex abuse bill signed
Gov. Tom Vilsack signed legislation Tuesday that takes aim at sex offenders in Iowa, including a life prison term for pedophiles who repeat the crime and electronic monitoring of felony offenders living outside prison walls. [Quad-City Times] Read More
State workers need health incentives
There was something missing from a recent report by the National Governors Association on what states are doing to promote health and fitness among their employees. [Tallahassee Democrat] Read More
Morris' expenses raise eyebrows
State Board of Education member Connie Morris attended a conference in April in Miami Beach, Fla., billing taxpayers $339 per night for her hotel, state records show. [Lawrence Journal-World] Read More
Kline to defend legislators, Sebelius, if they defy court
Attorney General Phill Kline is promising to defend legislators if they don't comply with a Kansas Supreme Court order to increase education spending and to pursue legal action to ensure that schools open on time in August. [Wichita Eagle (registration)] Read More
State board mulls switch for sex ed
Parents should know what is covered in sex education classes beforehand, and requiring them to sign their children up for those classes may be best, several members of the State Board of Education said Tuesday. [Wichita Eagle (registration)] Read More
Kansas catches a revenue windfall
Kansas lawmakers Tuesday found an additional $172 million that could solve -- at least for this year -- a Kansas Supreme Court mandate to add money to K-12 education. [Kansas City Star (registration)] Read More
State law puts up roadblocks for potential high school dropouts
Dixie Littlesun's hardships could have been prevented. A few months after Littlesun walked out of high school for good, an amendment to a state law took effect that would have barred her from quitting without parental approval. [Lawrence Journal-World] Read More
Brownback - Two-term pledge still stands
Even if he does not run for the White House in three years, Sen. Sam Brownback said he's sticking to his two-term pledge in the Senate. [Lawrence Journal-World] Read More
Evolution theory called impossible
As the Kansas Board of Education readies for a final debate on the teaching of evolution, one member is leveling the harshest criticism yet, calling the theory an impossibility. [Kansas City Star (registration)] Read More
Legislator apologizes for questioning three school districts' expenses
The chief education legislator in the Kansas House has apologized for questioning expenses at three school districts, but some people were still upset Tuesday. [Lawrence Journal-World] Read More
KDOT study focuses on K-10's future
The Kansas Highway 10 of the future could have six to eight lanes, a 100-foot landscaped buffer on either side, bus service between Lawrence and Kansas City, and a pedestrian or bicycle trail along the sides. [Lawrence Journal-World] Read More
Draft of evolution standard irks scientists
Several evolution proponents urged the State Board of Education on Tuesday to reject the science standards the board plans to review this morning. [Wichita Eagle (registration)] Read More
Lawmakers could meet order on schools without new taxes
Three options for dealing with a state Supreme Court order on school funding emerged Tuesday, none of which involve raising taxes. [Wichita Eagle (registration)] Read More
Kansas board to review proposed standards critical of evolution
Three State Board of Education members who drafted proposed science standards contend they're not taking a position on intelligent design, but some Kansas scientists think they're pushing it as an alternative to evolution. [Wichita Eagle (registration)] Read More
3 transportation officials indicted
Three top Transportation Cabinet officials were indicted by a special grand jury yesterday on charges that they fired a Democratic state worker because of his political beliefs. [The Courier-Journal (Louisville)] Read More
Fletcher tight-lipped about aide
Gov. Ernie Fletcher remained tight-lipped yesterday about the departure of top aide Keith Hall, who abruptly left state government last week. [Lexington Herald-Leader] Read More
Legislative panel clears proposed exotic animal ban
Monkeys and other wild animals would be added to the list of pets banned in Kentucky, under a proposal approved by a legislative panel on Tuesday. [The Courier-Journal (Louisville)] Read More
GOP tries to protect 'younger' ones
While the investigation into allegations of improper state hiring practices has disrupted more than a few lives recently, it's put three administration officials in a particularly awkward spot. [Lexington Herald-Leader] Read More
Kentucky reviewing boxing regulations
Kentucky's boxing authority is reviewing the state's regulations for fighters amid a push by a national nonprofit organization to standardize medical requirements for the sport. [The Courier-Journal (Louisville)] Read More
Park employees, charities see free golf sliced by state
In an effort to make its parks financially self-supporting, Kentucky has ended a long-standing practice of allowing free golf for employees, their guests, public officials and charities. [The Courier-Journal (Louisville)] Read More
Judge bars university from recognizing student body president
A judge barred University of Kentucky officials Tuesday from recognizing a student body president and having him sworn in as a member of the university's board of trustees. [The Courier-Journal (Louisville)] Read More
UK trustees approve $1.665 billion budget
University of Kentucky trustees approved a $1.665 billion budget for the upcoming fiscal year Tuesday, with provisions for more scholarships and a bigger pay increase for faculty and staff members. [The Courier-Journal (Louisville)] Read More
Up in smoke
After weeks of arm-twisting and closed-door negotiations, Gov. Kathleen Blanco abandoned her push for a $1-per-pack tax increase on cigarettes Tuesday, blaming a "decisive, obstructionist minority" for derailing her highest-profile initiative of this legislative session. [The Times-Picayune (New Orleans)] Read More
Stem cell ban stalls in committee
Proponents of legislation to ban embryonic stem cell research in Louisiana narrowly lost an attempt Tuesday to send the bill to the Senate, likely ending any chance that such a bill will pass this session. [The Times-Picayune (New Orleans)] Read More
Bush opposes Louisiana's bid for oil royalties
WASHINGTON - The Bush administration on Tuesday said it opposes sharing offshore oil and gas royalties with coastal states, a significant setback for Louisiana's effort to secure federal financing to restore its battered coastline. [The Times-Picayune (New Orleans)] Read More
Jena Band sues Blanco over casino
The Jena Band of Choctaw Indians has sued Gov. Kathleen Blanco again, this time to force her to negotiate for a Grant Parish casino. [The Advocate (Baton Rouge)] Read More
Airport slots bill to aid Saints OK'd
The Senate Judiciary B Committee ignored the opposition of Gov. Kathleen Blanco on Tuesday and approved a bill to legalize slot machine gambling at Louis Armstrong International Airport, with the revenue generated earmarked to help meet the state's obligations to the New Orleans Saints, and another bill authorizing gambling aboard paddle-wheelers on the Mississippi River. [The Times-Picayune (New Orleans)] Read More
Antitrust shield for utilities is denied
Rejecting arguments that the Public Service Commission provides sufficient protection against high utility rates in Louisiana, a Senate committee Tuesday rejected a bill that would have exempted regulated utilities from state antitrust laws. [The Times-Picayune (New Orleans)] Read More
Bill to boost Saints revenue revised to benefit Zephyrs
A tax bill designed to funnel revenue to the New Orleans Saints football team was rewritten Tuesday to give the New Orleans Zephyrs a sales tax break the AAA baseball team has been seeking. [The Times-Picayune (New Orleans)] Read More
Economic development bills sail through House
Although Gov. Kathleen Blanco's proposal for a cigarette tax cratered Tuesday, her multibill package of economic development legislation blasted out of the House without a single vote of opposition. [The Times-Picayune (New Orleans)] Read More
Legislature to wade into wetlands logging debate
The Legislature is poised to weigh in on a debate over whether the Army Corps of Engineers should regulate cypress logging in wetlands, with a House committee Tuesday approving a resolution asking Congress to stop the corps from requiring some landowners to get permits before they can log the timber on their property. [The Times-Picayune (New Orleans)] Read More
Senate may hit brakes on auto tax
A Senate panel approved a bill Tuesday evening that would eliminate the New Orleans property tax on motor vehicles but it defeated a measure that would restrict local governments from raising tax rates on real estate. [The Times-Picayune (New Orleans)] Read More
Senate votes to let gas stations sell at cost
The Senate voted 33-5 Tuesday for final passage of a bill to let gas stations sell fuel at cost rather than a 6 percent minimum markup required under current law. [The Times-Picayune (New Orleans)] Read More
Some find LEAP tests impassable, officials say
Roughly one out of 10 fourth-graders and eighth-graders who attend public schools in Louisiana are unable to pass a key state exam despite remedial efforts, officials said Tuesday. [The Advocate (Baton Rouge)] Read More
College credit improvement called unlikely
Despite Louisiana's low national ranking for public high-school students earning early college credit, no major improvements are in the offing, state educators said Tuesday. [The Advocate (Baton Rouge)] Read More
Budget panel sifting financial requests
The Senate budget committee is sifting through more than $90 million in requests for state spending next year, many of which have no chance of making it into the 2005-06 budget. [The Advocate (Baton Rouge)] Read More
Breaux urges payment of flood judgment
One of Louisiana's most prominent Democrats says lawmakers need to add one more priority to the budget before ending the legislative session in two weeks. [The Advocate (Baton Rouge)] Read More
DHHS snafu eats at elderly couple
MADISON, Maine - With $66 in food stamps every month, the Crawfords have learned to watch what they spend. [Kennebec Journal] Read More
Senate's OK of vote on racino faces veto
The Senate gave initial approval Tuesday to a bill that would let voters decide whether Maine's American Indian tribes should open a racino in Washington County, but the margin of victory left the issue in doubt. [Portland Press Herald] Read More
A not-so-sweet syrup season in NH
The cold spring is being blamed for this year's decline in maple syrup production across New England. [The Union Leader (Manchester)] Read More
Tobacco tax could close budget gap
Cigarette taxes would go up $1 per pack under a budget-balancing plan supported by legislative Democrats. [Kennebec Journal] Read More
Disabled boy's access to playground argued
A dispute about playground access for a disabled boy reached Maine's highest court Tuesday as lawyers argued a case that is testing the limits of a school's responsibility to students with special needs. [Portland Press Herald] Read More
State may require details of drug clinical trials
Maine could become the first state that requires drug companies to share the results of clinical trials with the public. [Portland Press Herald] Read More
CLAMS - New England red tide good news for local growers
When Mother Nature wreaks havoc on the oceans, it doesn't always mean disaster for everyone who makes a living off the water. [The Post and Courier (Charleston) (registration)] Read More
Panel is created to study Ehrlich personnel moves
Legislative leaders created a committee yesterday to examine Gov. Robert L. Ehrlich Jr.'s personnel practices, saying they need to investigate allegations that the administration fired longtime bureaucrats solely because of their political affiliation. [The Sun (Baltimore) (registration)] Read More
Children still being housed illegally in office building
City Department of Social Services officials are continuing to illegally house foster children at a downtown office building, the director of the state-run agency confirmed yesterday. [The Sun (Baltimore) (registration)] Read More
Steele expected to form exploratory panel
Lt. Gov. Michael S. Steele is expected to announce today the formation of an exploratory committee that would be his first step in seeking the U.S. Senate seat being vacated by Paul S. Sarbanes, a source familiar with Steele's candidacy said. [The Sun (Baltimore) (registration)] Read More
Democratic panel meets tonight to pick successor to Fulton
With no clear favorite to fill the remainder of former state Del. Tony E. Fulton's term, a panel of Democratic Party officials scheduled to meet tonight to select a replacement could find itself deadlocked, which would leave the decision to Republican Gov. Robert L. Ehrlich Jr. [The Sun (Baltimore) (registration)] Read More
Legislature to probe firings in Ehrlich era
Leading Democrats agreed yesterday to probe the firing practices of Maryland Gov. Robert L. Ehrlich Jr.'s administration, promising a balanced look at whether the rights of state workers have been violated. [The Washington Post (registration)] Read More
Gov, Kerry seek red tide aid for shellshocked state
Moving to avert economic disaster from a severe outbreak of red tide, state officials tried yesterday to calm consumer hysteria that is sending fish consumption into a tailspin while seeking relief for 1,700 Bay State shell fishermen put out of work. [Boston Herald] Read More
Union woos teachers at charter schools
A state teachers' union yesterday made its first move to recruit charter school teachers, setting the stage for a potential battle over control of the independent public schools. [The Boston Globe (registration)] Read More
Group to seek referendum against gay marriage
Opponents of same-sex marriage will announce tomorrow an initiative petition to put a constitutional amendment on the statewide ballot in 2008 that would ban such marriages, lawmakers and activists involved said yesterday. [The Boston Globe (registration)] Read More
A not-so-sweet syrup season in NH
The cold spring is being blamed for this year's decline in maple syrup production across New England. [The Union Leader (Manchester)] Read More
Healey urges Mass. to join compact to track ex-cons
More than 110 convicts from another state who are serving probation here remain unsupervised by local officials because Massachusetts is the only state that has not yet joined a national effort to manage the state-to-state transfer of prisoners, Lt. Gov. Kerry Healey told a House panel yesterday. [Boston Herald] Read More
CLAMS - New England red tide good news for local growers
When Mother Nature wreaks havoc on the oceans, it doesn't always mean disaster for everyone who makes a living off the water. [The Post and Courier (Charleston) (registration)] Read More
AG opens new MassMutual probe
Massachusetts Attorney General Thomas F. Reilly said he is investigating ''serious allegations of wrongdoing" at MassMutual Financial Group by its former chief executive, Robert J. O'Connell, who was fired two weeks ago for misconduct. [The Boston Globe (registration)] Read More
Confident, solemn Finneran pleads not guilty to perjury
He talked about the summer's tomato plants. He chatted about Carlton Fisk. He held his wife's hand and hugged supporters. [The Boston Globe (registration)] Read More
House to take up tax compromise
About 80,000 of the 120,000 investors who owe Massachusetts capital gains taxes from 2002 after a recent Supreme Judicial Court ruling would be spared under a proposal making its way through the Legislature. [The Boston Globe (registration)] Read More
Michigan Senate approves Medicaid budget with premiums, more copays
Medicaid patients in Michigan would pay on average $60 per year in premiums along with higher copays for brand-name prescription drugs under a budget proposal tentatively passed Tuesday by the state Senate. [South Bend Tribune] Read More
Commercial use of Michigan groundwater at stake in suit
Who owns the rights to Michigan's water is at the crux of a case argued before the state Court of Appeals in Lansing on Tuesday by lawyers for a bottling company and a citizens group. [Detroit Free Press] Read More
Democrats trash trash-import fee
Not only is the trash piling up in Michigan, but so is the political rhetoric over who's responsible. [South Bend Tribune] Read More
Macomb to get anti-bias program
The Michigan Department of Civil Rights is launching a historic program that gives residents an opportunity to voice complaints with a civil rights representative stationed in Macomb County. [The Detroit News] Read More
State colleges to boost tuition
Parents and students are bracing for steeper college bills this fall as university leaders in the coming weeks finalize what are expected to be higher tuition rates. [The Detroit News] Read More
School safety bills studied
A handful of bills aimed at keeping felons and other dangerous people away from children by requiring background checks for volunteers and employees at school and day care facilities will be considered in the state Legislature today. [Detroit Free Press] Read More
Grant gives bike trail a boost
The giant check filled a big hole for potentially thousands of bike riders. [Northwest Indiana Times (Munster)] Read More
Ad attacks Pawlenty cigarette revenue increase
The Americans for Tax Reform, a national anti-tax organization whose approval is considered critical to conservative politicians with an eye toward higher office, has begun a statewide televised advertising campaign criticizing Gov. Tim Pawlenty for his proposed cigarette revenue increase. [Minneapolis Star Tribune (registration)] Read More
Letter threatening Pawlenty investigated
A letter passed around Lake Elmo recently has drawn the attention of the State Patrol because it contains a threat against Gov. Tim Pawlenty, a spokesman for the Minnesota Department of Public Safety confirmed Tuesday. [Minneapolis Star Tribune (registration)] Read More
State government shutdown could slow plant permits
An air-quality permit has been obtained in Indiana by Mesabi Nugget, which might position that state ahead of Minnesota as the site for a $130 million iron nugget plant. [Duluth News Tribune] Read More
Higher-ed chief favors university tuition hikes
Mississippi's higher education chief will recommend tuition increases at the state's eight universities to the College Board today. [The Clarion-Ledger (Jackson)] Read More
Killen lawyers - Bar transcripts
PHILADELPHIA - A jury may hear opening arguments this afternoon in the murder trial of reputed Klan leader Edgar Ray Killen, accused of organizing the 1964 killings of three civil rights workers. [The Clarion-Ledger (Jackson)] Read More
Diaz trial delayed until next week
The judicial bribery trial of Mississippi Supreme Court Justice Oliver Diaz Jr. has been delayed until next week because of a death in the family of Diaz's attorney. [The Clarion-Ledger (Jackson)] Read More
Panel tackles regional stigma
The South has a lot to be proud of -- a growing economy, some of the most technologically advanced farmers in the world, and a "marvelous" culture -- but it still carries the stigmas of anti-intellectualism and racism, panelists said Tuesday at the Summit on the Rural South in Point Clear. [Mobile Register] Read More
Bush opposes Louisiana's bid for oil royalties
WASHINGTON - The Bush administration on Tuesday said it opposes sharing offshore oil and gas royalties with coastal states, a significant setback for Louisiana's effort to secure federal financing to restore its battered coastline. [The Times-Picayune (New Orleans)] Read More
ATV riders take to Missouri streams
Floaters on some of Missouri's finest streams found unwanted company this spring - drivers of ATVs, Jeeps, even pickups, playing in the rivers. More than a decade after a statewide crackdown on recreational motor vehicles in the water, the practice is present, and growing. [St. Louis Post-Dispatch] Read More
All must prove legal status to get, renew driver's license starting in July
If it's about time to renew your driver's license, be warned: everyone in Missouri will need to show proof he or she is legally in the country to get a license. [Jefferson City News Tribune] Read More
Judge steps away from Katy bridge lawsuit
Fearing any ruling would be met with skepticism, a judge has stepped aside from a lawsuit pitting the attorney general against the governor in a dispute over an old Katy Railroad bridge. [Jefferson City News Tribune] Read More
A primary in the West?
BRECKENRIDGE, Colo. - The West could become a key player in the next presidential election under an initiative being pushed by Gov. Jon Huntsman Jr. [Deseret Morning News (Salt Lake City)] Read More
Health insurance plan for low-income children set to expand
The state's subsidized health insurance plan for low-income children will expand its rolls by more than 500 kids July 1, with 2,500 more slots slated to open over the next year, state officials said Tuesday. [Missoulian] Read More
Election-day registration, new technologies in works for 2006
It's a while until the next Election Day, but state voting officials already are prepping for some major changes, including the first-ever chance for Montanans to register and vote on the same day. [Great Falls Tribune] Read More
School funding work progressing
A pair of surveys designed to help the state finish crafting a new school funding system will likely be released for response by the end of the month, finance experts hired by the Legislature said Tuesday. [Billings Gazette] Read More
State Indian gaming growth stunted
Indian gambling in Montana brought in $16.3 million in 2004 for a 5 percent growth rate, but a fraction of what's generated in some nearby states where tribes can offer a broader array of games with higher payouts, a report released Tuesday says. [Billings Gazette] Read More
Lindeen to challenge Rehberg for House
State Rep. Monica Lindeen, D-Huntley, said Tuesday evening she is running for the U.S. House seat now occupied by Rep. Dennis Rehberg, R-Mont. [Billings Gazette] Read More
Western governors talk energy
BRECKENRIDGE, Colo. - Kennecott Energy Co. plans to cut its Wyoming coal mine pollution by 8 percent over five years, the company's president and chief executive said Tuesday. [Casper Star-Tribune] Read More
Energy goals - clean, local
Speaking at the last day of the Western Governors' Association annual conference, [U.S. Energy Secretary Samuel] Bodman said the country must decrease its reliance on international supplies of oil and develop alternative energy sources such as solar, wind and nuclear power. [Denver Post] Read More
Ethanol fuel sales reach new high in state
March was a good month for the ethanol industry in Nebraska as six out of every 10 gallons of gasoline sold in Nebraska contained 10 percent ethanol. [The Grand Island Independent (registration)] Read More
Wet spring dents drought
Although recent rains have provided short-term relief from the drought cycle that Nebraska has been in since 1999, climate experts said it won't be enough to reverse years of water shortage. [Omaha World-Herald (registration)] Read More
Former governor, senator was dedicated to Nebraska
Jim Exon may have been a two-term governor and a three-term U.S. senator, but Grand Island residents are remembering him first as a Nebraskan. [The Grand Island Independent (registration)] Read More
Exon's family shares him with the state in death as in life
A steady stream of family, friends, political associates, former staffers, state workers and other Nebraskans came to see the former senator and governor lying in state Tuesday. [Omaha World-Herald (registration)] Read More
Privacy concern - Taxicab camera rule may get new life
The Nevada Taxicab Authority will try to resuscitate its stillborn taxi camera mandate after the rule was struck down in the waning hours of the 2005 Legislature. [Las Vegas Review-Journal] Read More
Guinn signs into law crackdown on payday loans
Gov. Kenny Guinn on Tuesday signed into law a bill that puts the brakes on high fees and interest some payday loan companies charge customers who miss payments. [Las Vegas Review-Journal] Read More
Energy goals - clean, local
Speaking at the last day of the Western Governors' Association annual conference, [U.S. Energy Secretary Samuel] Bodman said the country must decrease its reliance on international supplies of oil and develop alternative energy sources such as solar, wind and nuclear power. [Denver Post] Read More
Guinn signs bill moving primaries up to August
With one exception since 1909, Nevada's primary election has always been held in September. But the 2005 Legislature decided it will now be in August. [Las Vegas Sun] Read More
Bill to help problem gamblers among 44 more signed by Guinn
A new program that could help more than 50,000 pathological gamblers has been signed into law by Gov. Kenny Guinn. [Las Vegas Sun] Read More
Governor said he will accept Senate school plan
In a departure from his campaign rhetoric, Gov. John Lynch said Tuesday he will accept a school funding plan that keeps a state property tax. [Foster's Daily Democrat (Dover)] Read More
E-ZPass ready to roll
Beginning next week, people will be able to open E-ZPass accounts and order transponders for the state's new electronic toll collection system. [The Union Leader (Manchester)] Read More
House to vote on Senate budget
The House votes Wednesday whether to ask the Senate to negotiate a compromise state budget. [Foster's Daily Democrat (Dover)] Read More
Lynch will accept Senate's school plan
Gov. John Lynch said through a spokesman yesterday that he will not stand in the way of the school funding plan that comes up for a vote in the House today. [The Union Leader (Manchester)] Read More
A not-so-sweet syrup season in NH
The cold spring is being blamed for this year's decline in maple syrup production across New England. [The Union Leader (Manchester)] Read More
Hospitals push to reverse Medicaid cuts
Business lobbyists and the state's hospitals have joined together to urge the Legislature to reverse Medicaid payment cuts that will cost hospitals $26 million over two years. [The Union Leader (Manchester)] Read More
Lawmakers get to bottom line
Family planning services, land conservation and hospital payments will be some of the main points of contention when House and Senate budget writers begin negotiations this week. [Concord Monitor] Read More
CLAMS - New England red tide good news for local growers
When Mother Nature wreaks havoc on the oceans, it doesn't always mean disaster for everyone who makes a living off the water. [The Post and Courier (Charleston) (registration)] Read More
N.J. gay couples lose marriage battle
A divided state appeals court yesterday upheld New Jersey's ban on gay marriage, rejecting contentions by seven same-sex couples that their right to wed is guaranteed by the state constitution. [The Star-Ledger (Newark)] Read More
The 'real' cost of living in Jersey
To live above poverty in Essex County, a family of four -- two working parents with two children -- must earn a minimum of $44,736 annually, without government or private support, according to an in-depth cost-of-living report released yesterday. [The Star-Ledger (Newark)] Read More
Fund eyed for tax rebates
Looking for money to restore property tax rebates, Assembly Democrats have targeted a fund used to help the poor pay heating bills and to promote cleaner energy, raising concerns less money for such needs will push more poor families to the brink and scuttle renewable energy plans. [The Times (Trenton)] Read More
Appeals court decision prods Legislature on gay marriage
An appeals court may have decided yesterday that state legislators should decide whether to make gay marriage legal in New Jersey, but no state lawmaker has proposed authorizing such recognition for same-sex couples. [The Times (Trenton)] Read More
Same-sex marriage bid loses in ruling
NEWARK, N.J. - A state appeals court ruled Tuesday that New Jersey's Constitution did not require the recognition of gay marriage, rejecting the efforts of seven same-sex couples who sued the state to allow them to marry. [Los Angeles Times (registration)] Read More
New law puts older kids in safety seats
Children who are too big for child car seats and too small for seat belts will be required to ride in a booster seat under a recently passed law that will become effective Friday. [New Mexican (Santa Fe) (registration)] Read More
UNM regents review bond package
At the Board of Regents' Finance and Facilities Committee meeting Monday afternoon, faculty, administrators and students came to detail the inadequacies of the facilities they must learn in. [Albuquerque Tribune] Read More
Young adults missuse medication to ease stress, improve grades
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. - A study by the University of New Mexico Health Promotion and Disease Prevention Center has found that college students and teens increasingly abuse prescription medicines as they look for ways to relieve stress or enhance their academic performance. [New Mexican (Santa Fe) (registration)] Read More
A primary in the West?
BRECKENRIDGE, Colo. - The West could become a key player in the next presidential election under an initiative being pushed by Gov. Jon Huntsman Jr. [Deseret Morning News (Salt Lake City)] Read More
Mondragon named special water projects coordinator
A former lieutenant governor has been hired as a special water projects coordinator for the state engineer's office and the Interstate Stream Commission. [New Mexican (Santa Fe) (registration)] Read More
Energy goals - clean, local
Speaking at the last day of the Western Governors' Association annual conference, [U.S. Energy Secretary Samuel] Bodman said the country must decrease its reliance on international supplies of oil and develop alternative energy sources such as solar, wind and nuclear power. [Denver Post] Read More
Spitzer slams Pataki reforms
State Attorney General Eliot Spitzer, a Democrat running for governor in 2006, said Monday Gov. George Pataki showed a lack of leadership by not coming forward sooner with the reform proposals he's pushing as the legislative session winds down. [Times Union (Albany)] Read More
Albany officials seek their own reality show
Though it may prove less titillating than watching "Desperate Housewives" or "The Sopranos," state officials say it is time for viewers across New York to tune in to the doings of the State Legislature on cable television. [The New York Times (registration)] Read More
Bill on pesticide alerts OK'd
After months of public debate on science, privacy and public health, on Tuesday night Monroe County adopted a controversial state law that restricts pesticide use. [The Democrat and Chronicle (Rochester)] Read More
Probe weighs jockey data
A grand jury meeting in Ballston Spa in recent weeks has been gathering information about an alleged jockey weight scandal involving employees of the New York Racing Association. [Times Union (Albany)] Read More
Texas now 2nd to California in undocumented residents
Texas surpassed New York in 2004 to become the No. 2 state for undocumented residents - California is No. 1 - according to "Unauthorized Migrants: Numbers and Characteristics," prepared by the Pew Hispanic Center, a nonpartisan research group in Washington. [The San Antonio Express-News (registration)] Read More
Spitzer says Pataki failed on ethics bill
Attorney General Eliot Spitzer said Tuesday that the State Legislature should pass a series of lobbying and ethics measures before the 2005 session officially ends next week, and he went on to question Gov. George E. Pataki's leadership on government reform. [The New York Times (registration)] Read More
House budget has new slant on cigarettes
The state House budget plan will put a little less hurt on cigarette smokers and cause a whole lot more pain for small cigarette manufacturers. [The News & Observer (Raleigh) (registration)] Read More
Medicaid coverage of Viagra halted
The state has stopped paying for Viagra and other drugs that treat erectile dysfunction after finding that 15 convicted sex offenders received the pills through Medicaid. [The News & Observer (Raleigh) (registration)] Read More
Group home proposal in jeopardy
North Carolina's efforts to make annual inspections of group homes for mentally ill children have hit a snag, because an N.C. House committee cut 10 of 23 new inspector positions the governor has requested. [The Charlotte Observer (registration)] Read More
Bill about leaving scene of wreck goes to Senate
A bill making it a crime if a driver and a passenger switch places after an automobile accident and flee an accident scene moved yesterday from a committee to the full Senate. [The Winston-Salem Journal (registration)] Read More
State sees highest oil activity in years
Oil exploration and production are at their highest levels in years but the industry continues to be stunted by a lack of workers and equipment, state and oil industry officials say. [The Bismarck Tribune] Read More
119th receives warning
A former North Dakota National Guard commander said Tuesday he's concerned about tying the future of Fargo's 119th Fighter Wing too closely to the uncertainty of an unmanned aerial vehicle mission. [The Forum (Fargo)] Read More
Wine linked to Ohio coin scandal stolen; Colorado burglars also take guns, jewelry, cars
The suburban Denver home of a former employee of Tom Noe was burglarized over the weekend, with thieves making off with artwork, guns, jewelry, cars, and $300,000 in wine -- possibly purchased with money from the state of Ohio. [Toledo Blade] Read More
Lay's attorney defends handling of investment
The attorney representing embattled Pittsburgh money manager Mark Lay belittled Ohio's lawsuit against his client Monday as nothing more than a case of "investor's remorse." [Toledo Blade] Read More
Taft signs breast-feeding bill; moms elsewhere face struggle
Ohio became the 35th state to legally protect public breast-feeding Tuesday when Gov. Bob Taft signed a bill that easily passed the Republican-dominated General Assembly. It takes effect in 90 days. [The Plain Dealer (Cleveland)] Read More
State Supreme Court weighs visitation rights of grandparents
When Renee Harrold died in 1999, the custody fights began over her daughter, now 7 years old. [Toledo Blade] Read More
Bureau hangs on as adviser is indicted
The Ohio Bureau of Workers' Compensation allowed Alan Brian Bond to continue investing $50 million of its money for at least 18 months after Bond was indicted on charges of taking more than $6.9 million in kickbacks that were billed to his clients. [The Plain Dealer (Cleveland)] Read More
Report urges Ohio to fight global warming
Ohio needs to be aggressive in curtailing emissions that contribute to global warming, according to a report released today. [The Beacon Journal (Akron)(registration)] Read More
Guard base backers speak up
Supporters of the Springfield Air National Guard Base started making their case Tuesday afternoon to keep jobs and jets there. [Dayton Daily News] Read More
Despite more laws protecting breast-feeding, squeamishness remains
As Ohio creates a right to breast-feed in public, a federal bill languishes and bills were killed or are stuck in the few states that never addressed the issue. [Toledo Blade] Read More
Bond issue for dome ruled legal
The Oklahoma Supreme Court lifted a legal cloud over Oklahoma's Capitol dome on Tuesday, approving a $5 million bond issue to complete the dome's financing. [The Oklahoman (Oklahoma City) (registration)] Read More
DHS commissioners approve $30,000 raise for director
Pay is going up by 19 percent for Howard Hendrick, director of the Department of Human Services, after a decision Tuesday by agency commissioners to raise his salary by $30,000 to $155,000 a year. [The Oklahoman (Oklahoma City) (registration)] Read More
State revenue grows in May
All indications are this fiscal year will end at a pace ahead of the previous year, state Treasurer Scott Meacham said Tuesday. [The Oklahoman (Oklahoma City) (registration)] Read More
Highway project near Crossroads meets opposition
Lawmakers are complaining about a $130 million plan to redesign the ramp system at the Interstate 35 and Interstate 240 interchange in south Oklahoma City. [The Oklahoman (Oklahoma City) (registration)] Read More
Energy goals - clean, local
Speaking at the last day of the Western Governors' Association annual conference, [U.S. Energy Secretary Samuel] Bodman said the country must decrease its reliance on international supplies of oil and develop alternative energy sources such as solar, wind and nuclear power. [Denver Post] Read More
Governor - National draft debate needed
Gov. Ted Kulongoski broke ground Tuesday on a project to build a new state war memorial to Oregon soldiers and said afterward that the nation needs a debate on whether to restore the military draft. [Corvallis Gazette-Times] Read More
Oregon legislators gridlock on budget
Oregon House and Senate leaders have told lawmakers to clear their weekend calendars, starting Saturday. [The Oregonian (Portland)] Read More
Tsunami alert briefly tests coast
A magnitude 7.0 earthquake struck on the sea floor about 90 miles off Crescent City, Calif., on Tuesday night, prompting a tsunami warning that led to evacuations up and down the West Coast. [The Oregonian (Portland)] Read More
Bills would boost penalties against makers of meth
State officials have broadened their efforts to stop the spread of methamphetamine. [Statesman Journal (Salem)] Read More
Capitol gives nod to nation with display of state flags
To the strains of "America the Beautiful" by the Keizer Community Jazz Band, donors on Tuesday raised the banners of the 50 states along the new Walk of the Flags outside the Capitol. [Statesman Journal (Salem)] Read More
Western governors talk energy
BRECKENRIDGE, Colo. - Kennecott Energy Co. plans to cut its Wyoming coal mine pollution by 8 percent over five years, the company's president and chief executive said Tuesday. [Casper Star-Tribune] Read More
Energy goals - clean, local
Speaking at the last day of the Western Governors' Association annual conference, [U.S. Energy Secretary Samuel] Bodman said the country must decrease its reliance on international supplies of oil and develop alternative energy sources such as solar, wind and nuclear power. [Denver Post] Read More
House targets 'junk' lawsuits
State Rep. Mike Turzai has unveiled part two of his effort to make Pennsylvania a more business-friendly state by protecting manufacturers, retailers, food producers and doctors from what he calls "frivolous" or "junk" lawsuits. [Pittsburgh Post-Gazette] Read More
Rendell plans wide search for education secretary
Gov. Rendell has begun a search for a new education secretary, someone who will help him advance an education agenda that has hit snags. [The Inquirer (Philadelphia) (registration)] Read More
Bill would keep obesity fight out of the courts
Obesity is the gathering storm in the public health field these days. [The Patriot-News (Harrisburg)] Read More
GOP-backed bill would curtail acceptance of gaming funds
Gov. Rendell would not be allowed to accept contributions from the Democratic Governors' Association for his 2006 reelection, under a bill introduced yesterday by Republican lawmakers. [The Inquirer (Philadelphia) (registration)] Read More
Officials want city police, not state, to control noise
Harrisburg doesn't want the music to die on bustling Restaurant Row along North Second Street. [The Patriot-News (Harrisburg)] Read More
House approves reform legislation for nursing homes
The House yesterday approved the Germaine Morsilli Act, the first of several nursing-home reform bills that will be voted on this week. [The Providence Journal (registration)] Read More
Heating program assists the poor
A major heating-assistance bill being considered by the Rhode Island Senate would help low-income families pay their heating bills and provide emergency funds to help get service restored. [The Providence Journal (registration)] Read More
BU reverses course, plans to keep WRNI
Boston University, which owns Rhode Island public radio station WRNI-AM in Providence, announced late yesterday that it has dropped plans to sell it and will run it as a public radio station "indefinitely." [The Providence Journal (registration)] Read More
A not-so-sweet syrup season in NH
The cold spring is being blamed for this year's decline in maple syrup production across New England. [The Union Leader (Manchester)] Read More
Legislators override eight Sanford vetoes
Legislators made quick work Tuesday of 11 vetoes from the governor - overriding eight, including one that would boost road maintenance by about $70 million. [The State (Columbia)] Read More
Research campus gets seed money
Construction could begin by the end of the year on the largest expansion of USC in recent history, now that state officials have freed up $58 million for the school's "research campus." [The State (Columbia)] Read More
State retirees to get 3.4 percent increase
About 90,000 state retirees will get a 3.4 percent cost-of-living increase next month. [The State (Columbia)] Read More
CLAMS - New England red tide good news for local growers
When Mother Nature wreaks havoc on the oceans, it doesn't always mean disaster for everyone who makes a living off the water. [The Post and Courier (Charleston) (registration)] Read More
House upholds Sanford's veto of left-lane bill
You're late to another meeting because of that slow driver bottling up traffic in the left-hand lane of Interstate 26. [The Post and Courier (Charleston) (registration)] Read More
S.C. gives no money to anti-smoking campaign for youth
The energetic young voices that echoed through the halls of the Colonial Center on Tuesday were screaming in support of the only statewide program designed to curb youth smoking. [The Post and Courier (Charleston) (registration)] Read More
Black judge might make S.C. history
U.S. Sen. Lindsey Graham appears likely to nominate a black circuit court judge from Columbia to be the state's next U.S. attorney. [The Post and Courier (Charleston) (registration)] Read More
S.C. State gets go-ahead to replace WWI-era dorms
For the second time in nine months, S.C. State University has received the state budget oversight panel's blessing to build a new dormitory with money it intends to borrow from the federal government. [The State (Columbia)] Read More
Programs promote building trades
At 11, Angel Street is already thinking about a job to fall back on in case her goal to be a doctor does not work out. [The State (Columbia)] Read More
Hollings' son plans to run for state office
The 54-year-old son of former U.S. Sen. Fritz Hollings has announced plans to run for lieutenant governor next year, saying he views the job as a "stepping stone" to higher office. [The Post and Courier (Charleston) (registration)] Read More
Measure would raise tobacco taxes
An effort officially began Tuesday to let South Dakotans decide if tobacco taxes should be increased substantially. [Rapid City Journal] Read More
Gaming commission- Poker tournament fees aren't bets
DEADWOOD, S.D. - It takes some careful explanation to differentiate between bets and poker tournament entry fees, but advocates for the latter successfully did so Tuesday in Deadwood. [Rapid City Journal] Read More
State workers need health incentives
There was something missing from a recent report by the National Governors Association on what states are doing to promote health and fitness among their employees. [Tallahassee Democrat] Read More
Panel to work on ideas for new ethics law
House Speaker Jimmy Naifeh said he hopes a special panel of lawmakers will start hammering out new ideas for tougher ethics laws shortly after July 1, and may support a special session. [The Tennessean (Nashville)] Read More
Ford's $400,000 sparks lawsuit
Former state senator John Ford's financial ties to a TennCare contractor -- the source of ethics and criminal inquiries since April -- now are the focus of a securities fraud lawsuit as well. [The Commercial Appeal (Memphis) (registration)] Read More
Enigmatic lobbyist has had problems with finances - his and those he oversaw
Charles E. Love, with his wide smile, neatly trimmed white beard and a dark suit that implies the wearer appreciates fine tailoring, appears in the photograph to be a successful individual, a person who has enjoyed the ride, a man with a plan. [The Tennessean (Nashville)] Read More
Colleges reconsider smoking restrictions
Student smokers could get kicked out in the cold this winter if schools revamp smoking policies per new legislation, but some undergraduate smokers say new policies won't do any good. [The Tennessean (Nashville)] Read More
Teachers on low end of state's pay raises
While the lowest-paid teachers in Texas are getting less than $700 in raises this fall, some of the state's top elected officials will be receiving pay hikes of $32,000 under the new state budget. [The Houston Chronicle (registration)] Read More
Texas now 2nd to California in undocumented residents
Texas surpassed New York in 2004 to become the No. 2 state for undocumented residents - California is No. 1 - according to "Unauthorized Migrants: Numbers and Characteristics," prepared by the Pew Hispanic Center, a nonpartisan research group in Washington. [The San Antonio Express-News (registration)] Read More
Perry camp's strategy taking shape
Gov. Rick Perry's political campaign has hired a Virginia-based firm that helped President Bush identify and target Christian "values voters" instrumental to his re-election last year. [The Dallas Morning News (registration)] Read More
State labor officials seek federal funds for possible base closings
The Arkansas Employment Security Department said Tuesday that it recently applied for a $1 million federal grant to help the state plan for possible closings and realignments at military bases in Arkansas and northeast Texas. [Arkansas News Bureau] Read More
Perry talks special session
Gov. Rick Perry told a crowd at a Bexar County Republican Party fundraiser he plans to call the Legislature into special session later this month, two San Antonio lawmakers who attended the event said Tuesday. [The San Antonio Express-News (registration)] Read More
Bush opposes Louisiana's bid for oil royalties
WASHINGTON - The Bush administration on Tuesday said it opposes sharing offshore oil and gas royalties with coastal states, a significant setback for Louisiana's effort to secure federal financing to restore its battered coastline. [The Times-Picayune (New Orleans)] Read More
Positive side effect from child support
Fewer unwed mothers have children in states that don't easily let fathers off the hook for child support, a new study shows. [The San Antonio Express-News (registration)] Read More
Perry signs bill giving voters a voice in creating tollways
TEMPLE, Texas - Voters would have to give their approval before any tax-funded highways are converted to toll roads under a transportation bill that Gov. Rick Perry signed Tuesday. [The Houston Chronicle (registration)] Read More
UT Law gets more room for non-Texans
The already stiff competition for admission into the University of Texas School of Law is about to intensify. To increase the law school's national profile, state lawmakers will allow up to 35 percent of the incoming class in fall 2006 to come from out of state, up from 20 percent in recent years. [The Houston Chronicle (registration)] Read More
Bill offers a fast track to college
Gov. Rick Perry could soon sign a bill into law that would give high school students who earn an International Baccalaureate diploma at least a year of credit at any Texas college. [The Houston Chronicle (registration)] Read More
Plant will cut emissions of toxic by half
One of the state's largest producers of 1,3-butadiene will cut its emissions of the toxic chemical in half, hoping to ensure that none drifts across the plant fence into a nearby public park and East End neighborhoods, where it has recently reached levels that can increase cancer risk. [The Houston Chronicle (registration)] Read More
Perry facing difficult crime bill decisions
As a veto deadline approaches, Gov. Rick Perry's dilemma extends to criminals and how to deal with them. Among the scores of bills passed by a solidly Republican Legislature are three that have been construed by some as soft on crime, which in Texas politics is akin to being radioactive. [The San Antonio Express-News (registration)] Read More
Energy goals - clean, local
Speaking at the last day of the Western Governors' Association annual conference, [U.S. Energy Secretary Samuel] Bodman said the country must decrease its reliance on international supplies of oil and develop alternative energy sources such as solar, wind and nuclear power. [Denver Post] Read More
Transportation bill is signed
TEMPLE, Texas - Voters would have to give their approval before any tax-funded highways are converted to toll roads under a sweeping transportation bill that Gov. Rick Perry signed Tuesday. [The Dallas Morning News (registration)] Read More
Reading service for the blind killed
Ms. Emerson of Fort Worth was among 1,500 blind and visually impaired Texans who used a service that electronically read 190 newspapers and magazines over the phone to them. Last Friday, the service was dropped after the state failed to find $40,000 to pay for it. [The Dallas Morning News (registration)] Read More
A primary in the West?
BRECKENRIDGE, Colo. - The West could become a key player in the next presidential election under an initiative being pushed by Gov. Jon Huntsman Jr. [Deseret Morning News (Salt Lake City)] Read More
DOE boss reassures Huntsman on funds to move Moab tailings
BRECKENRIDGE, Colo. - Energy Secretary Samuel Bodman has assured Gov. Jon Huntsman Jr. that plans to fund the removal of radioactive tailings from a site along the Colorado River near Moab are on track, the Utah governor said Tuesday. [The Salt Lake Tribune] Read More
Gas prices slipping in Utah and region
Temperatures rise. Gasoline prices fall. That's not the typical early-summer pattern, but AAA Utah on Tuesday reported figures showing statewide - and regionwide - decreases in the price of a gallon of regular, self-serve gasoline. [Deseret Morning News (Salt Lake City)] Read More
Utah delegation reports 2004 income, assets and liabilities
WASHINGTON - Sen. Orrin Hatch made $14,839 from royalties as a songwriter and author. Not exactly superstar money, but it was enough business that he hired legal representation to negotiate his future contracts. [The Salt Lake Tribune] Read More
Utah will test new blood substitute
Car and motorcycle accidents, stabbings, shootings and other trauma-related injuries kill more than 2 million people a year nationwide. [The Salt Lake Tribune] Read More
Western governors talk energy
BRECKENRIDGE, Colo. - Kennecott Energy Co. plans to cut its Wyoming coal mine pollution by 8 percent over five years, the company's president and chief executive said Tuesday. [Casper Star-Tribune] Read More
Energy goals - clean, local
Speaking at the last day of the Western Governors' Association annual conference, [U.S. Energy Secretary Samuel] Bodman said the country must decrease its reliance on international supplies of oil and develop alternative energy sources such as solar, wind and nuclear power. [Denver Post] Read More
St. Albans approves Wal-Mart - Retailer awaits state OK
ST. ALBANS, Vt. - Wal-Mart has earned approval to build a store in St. Albans Town, clearing the first major hurdle for the retail giant's fifth and largest Vermont store. [Burlington Free Press] Read More
Staffing crisis averted at state hospital
The state and Fletcher Allen Health Care have all but finalized a contract that adds more psychiatrists to the staff at the Vermont State Hospital, boosts their pay and promises them professional support. [Burlington Free Press] Read More
Legislators, governor might avoid budget veto
When legislators return Thursday for a special session, they are likely avoid a veto of the state budget by passing legislation that would nullify language in the budget regarding the Vermont State College faculty union contract. [Burlington Free Press] Read More
Energy efficiency can pay
BRATTLEBORO, Vt. - A program that is believed to be the first in Vermont will offer loan breaks to homeowners to help them use less energy. [Rutland Herald] Read More
Sanders gaining support
More than two dozen leading Vermont Democrats are lining up behind the expected Senate campaign of the state's independent representative to Congress, Bernard Sanders. [Rutland Herald] Read More
A not-so-sweet syrup season in NH
The cold spring is being blamed for this year's decline in maple syrup production across New England. [The Union Leader (Manchester)] Read More
House centrists prevail in Va.
Voters in yesterday's Virginia primary rallied behind moderate Republicans in the House of Delegates, turning back a concerted effort by state and national anti-tax activists who had vowed to oust them for passing a tax increase. [The Washington Post (registration)] Read More
GOP, Democrats set for November election
The Republican and Democratic tickets were set yesterday for the Nov. 8 general election. [Richmond Times-Dispatch] Read More
State surplus could top $600 million
The state's economy is a scorcher, which should warm the hearts of some of the politicians in this fall's statewide and legislative races. [Richmond Times-Dispatch] Read More
Options discussed on roads
In the market for a toll road? How about a bridge over the Chesapeake Bay? [The Free Lance-Star (Fredericksburg)] Read More
Court reinstates woman's murder conviction
The Virginia Court of Appeals yesterday reinstated the second-degree murder conviction of a Prince William County woman who contended that she was suffering from multiple-personality disorder when she shot and killed her husband in March 2000. [Richmond Times-Dispatch] Read More
EPA endorses Va. water protection
The federal government has approved special protections for nine streams and a lake considered among Virginia's most pristine waters. [Richmond Times-Dispatch] Read More
Choosing a ticket goes smoothly
SPOTSYLVANIA, Va. - Carla Mackey was surprised yesterday when a Spotsylvania County poll worker asked her to choose between the Democratic or the Republican primary ticket. [Richmond Times-Dispatch] Read More
Kilgore clinches GOP primary for governor
Jerry W. Kilgore easily won the Republican primary for governor on Tuesday, capturing 83 percent of the vote against an opponent he never acknowledged: Warrenton Mayor George B. Fitch. [The Virginian-Pilot (Norfolk) (registration)] Read More
Bolling, Byrne win parties' lieutenant governor nominations
A Hanover Republican with an unwavering contempt for taxes and a Fairfax Democrat with long time loyalties to labor groups won their parties' nominations for lieutenant governor Tuesday. [The Virginian-Pilot (Norfolk) (registration)] Read More
McDonnell credits record in state politics for his win
Del. Robert F. McDonnell of Virginia Beach overwhelmingly won the Republican primary for attorney general on Tuesday, capturing 68 percent of the vote in trouncing Stephen E. Baril, a Richmond lawyer, according to unofficial returns from the state Board of Elections. [The Virginian-Pilot (Norfolk) (registration)] Read More
Baril 'not easily discouraged,' still expects to serve his party
Despite his electoral thumping, Steve Baril was already looking to the future last night. [Richmond Times-Dispatch] Read More
GOP nominees launch statewide victory tour
The Republican victors in their party's primary launched a two-day statewide tour Wednesday with a rally attended by more than 100 supporters. [The Roanoke Times] Read More
McClellan is victor in 71st District
Richmond voters are set to send a new face from a new generation to represent much of the northern and eastern parts of the city in the General Assembly. [Richmond Times-Dispatch] Read More
Hargrove fends off challenge from Clemmons in Hanover
Both traveled in sweltering heat yesterday to greet voters. The one who handed out icy bottles of water labeled with his name triumphed. [Richmond Times-Dispatch] Read More
McEachin defeats Miles by 48 votes for nod in 74th
In the end, A. Donald McEachin's quest to regain the 74th District House of Delegates seat came down to the district's lone Richmond precinct. [Richmond Times-Dispatch] Read More
Scott rolls to victory over Jarvis
Del. Ed Scott credited his voting record last night after Culpeper-area voters sent him back to Richmond for a second term. [The Free Lance-Star (Fredericksburg)] Read More
Orrock holds his seat
On a hot and lonely day at the polls, Del. Bobby Orrock beat the only Republican primary challenger he's ever faced. [The Free Lance-Star (Fredericksburg)] Read More
Incumbent Howell sees victory; has no opposition for seat
Del. Algie T. Howell Jr. claimed victory in Tuesday's Democratic primary for the 90th District House of Delegates . [The Virginian-Pilot (Norfolk) (registration)] Read More
Incumbent Wardrup easily wins over Miles
VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. - State Del. Leo C. Wardrup Jr. easily defeated challenger Delceno C. Miles in Tuesday's Republican primary election. [The Virginian-Pilot (Norfolk) (registration)] Read More
Purkey wins in challenge to party's anti-tax resolve
VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. - State Del. Harry R. "Bob" Purkey soundly defeated a Republican challenger Tuesday in a race that tested the party's anti-tax resolve. [The Virginian-Pilot (Norfolk) (registration)] Read More
Western governors talk energy
BRECKENRIDGE, Colo. - Kennecott Energy Co. plans to cut its Wyoming coal mine pollution by 8 percent over five years, the company's president and chief executive said Tuesday. [Casper Star-Tribune] Read More
Bill allies seek teeth for DUI penalties
Relatives of people who died at the hands of drunken drivers tearfully urged state legislators to put three-time offenders in prison, treating driving-under-the-influence crimes as felonies. [The Olympian] Read More
Reichert goes to bat for police, ticks off own party
WASHINGTON - Rep. Dave Reichert broke with Republican leaders in Congress yesterday, proposing to restore $78 million to a federal program that helped King County hire dozens of deputies when he was sheriff. [The Seattle Times] Read More
Energy goals - clean, local
Speaking at the last day of the Western Governors' Association annual conference, [U.S. Energy Secretary Samuel] Bodman said the country must decrease its reliance on international supplies of oil and develop alternative energy sources such as solar, wind and nuclear power. [Denver Post] Read More
Bond review panel revealed
In hopes of convincing voters that selling $5.5 billion of pension bonds is not the "big gamble" that critics say, Gov. Joe Manchin Tuesday introduced a 10-member panel of "fiscal and financial experts" that will have to approve any bond issues. [Charleston Gazette (registration)] Read More
Bond, raises link denied
Gov. Joe Manchin has said his pension bond plan should stand on its own merits and not be tied to pay raises for state workers. [Charleston Daily Mail] Read More
Assembly bill would give military more time to vote
Saying too many Wisconsin soldiers are disenfranchised, the state Assembly passed a bill Tuesday to allow the absentee ballots of military personnel to count as long as they are postmarked by Election Day, not received by then. [La Crosse Tribune] Read More
Court says teenage baby sitters are liable
Baby sitters younger than 18 can be held criminally responsible for the deaths of children in their care, the state appeals court ruled Tuesday, rejecting arguments from a Milwaukee teenager found guilty of child neglect. [Milwaukee Journal Sentinel] Read More
State Assembly OKs moral opt-out bill
The state Assembly passed a bill Tuesday intended to protect health care and biotechnology workers who object on moral or religious grounds to performing certain procedures. [Milwaukee Journal Sentinel] Read More
State pool for health benefits proposed
A bipartisan pair of state lawmakers are recommending a radical change to the way health insurance is bought and sold in Wisconsin by proposing the creation of a statewide insurance purchasing pool. [Milwaukee Journal Sentinel] Read More
Farm taxes may no longer be dirt cheap
The state's method for taxing farmland - a system that has saved Wisconsin farmers $1.5 billion in taxes over the last decade - will get an overhaul this year after the current formula dropped the average value of farmland for tax purposes to less than nothing. [Milwaukee Journal Sentinel] Read More
Assembly passes bill to add more protections for health workers
Health care workers could legally say no to participating in stem cell research or withdrawing a person's feeding tube if they feel the procedures violated their religion under a Republican bill the state Assembly passed Tuesday. [La Crosse Tribune] Read More
Report -- Indian gambling revenue payments rose fastest in Wisconsin
The amount of casino gaming revenue Wisconsin's American Indian tribes shared with the state increased by more than 300 percent last year, the largest increase in the country, according to a review of Indian gaming being released today. [La Crosse Tribune] Read More
More schools make the grade
Under its new method of measuring test score data, the state Department of Public Instruction on Tuesday released a much shorter list than last year of schools that failed to meet federal reading and math standards. [Milwaukee Journal Sentinel] Read More
3 state hospitals sued over rates for uninsured patients
Three not-for-profit Wisconsin health care systems were accused of price-gouging their uninsured patients in class-action lawsuits filed Tuesday. [Milwaukee Journal Sentinel] Read More
State's share of health care costs increase
CASPER, Wyo. - A panel reviewing how the state Department of Health is run and spends its money heard several ideas on reducing the increasing cost of providing medical and nursing home care to the poor and elderly. [Billings Gazette] Read More
Idaho argues against moving planes to Wyo
BOISE, Idaho - Idaho needs its wing of Air National Guard cargo planes to stay in Boise for emergency airlifting and future firefighting chores, Gov. Dirk Kempthorne will tell a panel reviewing the Pentagon's decision to send the planes to Wyoming. [Casper Star-Tribune] Read More
State - Audit expected by end of the month, but not this week
State auditors say a long-awaited audit of the Education Department will not be ready this week but is expected by the end of the month. [Casper Star-Tribune] Read More
Pollution regs could come today
JACKSON, Wyo. - New regulations directing states to curb pollution are expected from the Environmental Protection Agency today. [Casper Star-Tribune] Read More
Western governors talk energy
BRECKENRIDGE, Colo. - Kennecott Energy Co. plans to cut its Wyoming coal mine pollution by 8 percent over five years, the company's president and chief executive said Tuesday. [Casper Star-Tribune] Read More
Energy goals - clean, local
Speaking at the last day of the Western Governors' Association annual conference, [U.S. Energy Secretary Samuel] Bodman said the country must decrease its reliance on international supplies of oil and develop alternative energy sources such as solar, wind and nuclear power. [Denver Post] Read More
Most want government to make Internet safe
WASHINGTON - Most Americans believe the government should do more to make the Internet safe, but they don't trust the federal institutions that are largely responsible for creating and enforcing laws online, a new industry survey says. [Chicago Sun-Times] Read More
Christian right's alliances bend political spectrum
WASHINGTON - Many evangelical Christians got involved in politics because of a single issue: abortion. [USA Today] Read More
HIV striking more women in South
AIDS is surging among women in the South, driven by poverty, powerlessness, a lack of awareness of the disease and poor access to medical care, researchers said Tuesday. [USA Today] Read More
Illegal population flows to Southeast
WASHINGTON - Illegal immigrants are moving in unprecedented numbers to the southeastern United States, choosing that area over traditional "destination states" such as California, according to a study released Tuesday. [Los Angeles Times (registration)] Read More |
Powered by