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Archive of Stateline.org RSS - State by State Roundup on Monday November 02, 2009
Alabama boasts lowest taxes in nation
Alabama residents and companies paid less in taxes than people and businesses in any other state in the 2007 fiscal year, based on total state and local taxes paid per resident, according to a review of U.S. Census Bureau reports. [The Birmingham News] Read More
Riley -- Contract 'buffoonery' just Democrats campaigning
Gov. Bob Riley turned the criticism over a multimillion-dollar consulting contract back on Democrats on Friday, saying they are gearing up for campaign season by attacking a company that has performed well for the state and criticizing decisions made by career state employees. [Montgomery Advertiser] Read More
Party switching may be in works
The chairman of the Alabama Republican Party is having ongoing discussions with several Democrats in the Alabama Legislature about the possibility of switching parties. [Montgomery Advertiser] Read More
Campaign financing -- Jerry Reed narrows funding gap in special House session
With the help of the state GOP and his own checkbook, Jerry Reed has narrowed the once-sizable lead in campaign funds enjoyed by Elaine Beech, his Democratic rival in Tuesday's special state House election, according to campaign finance reports. [Mobile Register] Read More
Case may turn on tossed test
A Huntsville man charged with manslaughter in a deadly 2005 wreck wants the crime lab results of his blood alcohol test thrown out because the sample was destroyed before the defense could do its own tests. A court order asking that the sample be preserved was never delivered to the state crime lab. [The Huntsville Times] Read More
Dothan developer, Riley's staff battle over bingo
Officials with the Country Crossing development in Houston County are complaining that a member of the governor's staff attempted to stop the shipment of about 1,700 electronic gaming machines from Nevada. [Montgomery Advertiser] Read More
Old Madison Pike widening may still be a year away
HUNTSVILLE, Ala. - Next month will be the 10th anniversary of then Gov. Don Siegleman's announcement that the state would widen the road. The project has languished for various reasons since. [Mobile Register] Read More
Rep. Lea Fite 'will be missed'
Friends, colleagues and family of state Rep. Lea Fite, D-Jacksonville, gathered Thursday in Anniston to mourn the unexpected death of the respected lawmaker. [Montgomery Advertiser] Read More
King's top foes for re-election? Top GOP figures
Alabama Attorney General Troy King is running for re-election while feuding with influential Republicans who would normally be his allies, including the top three GOP officeholders in the state. [Montgomery Advertiser] Read More
Destructive cogongrass threatens crops, timber
An invader is on the march in the Deep South, wreaking ecological havoc, cutting production in timber and agricultural crops and creating an extreme fire danger along the way. [Montgomery Advertiser] Read More
Board picks Hill as new Alabama 2-year chancellor
The State Board of Education picked a Georgia educator Friday to become chancellor of Alabama's two-year college system and help lead it back from a financial scandal that brought down a former chancellor. [The Augusta Chronicle] Read More
Planners tackle Alaska's worst traffic bottleneck
Road planners say they're looking at as many alternatives as possible as they try to solve the worst traffic bottleneck in Alaska - a section of Anchorage where two highways converge and turn into roads dotted with stoplights. [The Juneau Empire] Read More
Alcohol runners face stiff penalties
Weeks after two hub cities in rural Alaska voted to remove bans on local liquor sales, the state is launching a campaign warning bootleggers they face big fines and mandatory jail time if caught. [Anchorage Daily News] Read More
SarahPAC says it resolved problems with contributions
Papers filed with the Federal Elections Commission show former Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin's political action committee has resolved problems with excessive contributions to Republicans. [The Juneau Empire] Read More
Study finds west is best for sleep
If you're feeling well rested this morning, it might be because you live out West. [Casper Star-Tribune] Read More
Report -- More than 12,000 Arizona jobs created by stimulus
At least 12,283 Arizona jobs were saved or created directly by the federal stimulus through September, according to a preliminary look at detailed government reports to be released Friday afternoon. [The Arizona Republic (Phoenix)] Read More
DEQ director seeks higher business fees
Facing a cutback in state funding, the state's top environmental regulator wants businesses to pay more for the permits they need from his agency. [East Valley Tribune] Read More
Rest-area cuts spur safety fears
Truck drivers say the consequence of closing rest areas around the state to save money is more dangerous highways. [The Arizona Republic (Phoenix)] Read More
Economy delaying lower-cost colleges
Arizona State University's plan to develop a network of lower-priced colleges, originally targeted to be in place by 2010, is now two years away. [The Arizona Republic (Phoenix)] Read More
Appeals court OKs age discrimination suit
A federal appeals court has reinstated an age discrimination suit filed by former Phoenix employees of an international firm. [East Valley Tribune] Read More
Navajo hope stimulus cash closes a revolving prison door
TUBA CITY, Ariz. -- More than 50,000 people are arrested across the Navajo reservation each year -- yet there are only 59 jail beds here. [Los Angeles Times] Read More
Senator -- Ranch work informs Capitol work
PRESCOTT -- Running farm offers unique perspective, Steve Pierce says. [The Arizona Republic (Phoenix)] Read More
Study finds west is best for sleep
If you're feeling well rested this morning, it might be because you live out West. [Casper Star-Tribune] Read More
Arkansas powers way into big-time jackpot
Arkansas' lottery plunged into selling tickets to the Powerball multimillion-dollar jackpot Saturday night, joining 30 other states, the District of Columbia and the U.S. Virgin Islands. [Arkansas Democrat-Gazette (Little Rock)] Read More
Court-security update lags in some counties
Compliance with a 2007 state law intended to beef up security at county courthouses has been coming along slowly, but many counties have failed to fill out the paperwork necessary for getting state grants. [Arkansas Democrat-Gazette (Little Rock)] Read More
Community youth services contractors feeling budget pinch
Some supervisors at nonprofit community-based programs tasked with rehabilitating troubled teens make barely $1 an hour more than youngsters working at fast-food restaurants. [Arkansas News Bureau] Read More
The scoop on state scholarships
Lottery funds will go to the Arkansas Academic Challenge Scholarship program — established in 1991 — for high school seniors heading directly to college, current college students, or adults either starting college or returning. [Arkansas Democrat-Gazette (Little Rock)] Read More
California's fiscal health continues to deteriorate, despite many deep cuts
LOS ANGELES — Just three months after Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger cut, taxed and line-item-vetoed away a two-year budget gap of $26 billion, California faces billions of dollars in new shortfalls, with the problem likely to deepen in the next fiscal year. [The New York Times] Read More
It's a small field of candidates for such a huge race
SAN FRANCISCO -- California has roughly 37 million residents and about 17 million registered voters. Of those, more than 7 million are declared Democrats. [Los Angeles Times] Read More
Gavin Newsom drops out of California governor's race
SAN FRANCISCO and SACRAMENTO -- San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom abruptly abandoned his run for California governor Friday, folding in the face of weak poll numbers and a skimpy bank account and leaving state Atty. Gen. Jerry Brown as the only major candidate bidding for the Democratic nomination. [Los Angeles Times] Read More
Newsom exit gives huge boost to Brown campaign
When Attorney General Jerry Brown, 71, became the last man standing in the 2010 Democratic gubernatorial field on Friday, the battle-scarred warrior with four decades in state politics pulled off a remarkable feat in California - home to an elbow-throwing pack of ambitious Democratic politicians. [San Francisco Chronicle] Read More
Governor may get to pick No. 2
If Democratic Lt. Gov. John Garamendi wins a special congressional election Tuesday in the Democrat-leaning 10th Congressional District, Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger has the power to appoint Garamendi's replacement. [The Sacramento Bee] Read More
California lawmakers rarely defy party lines, analysis finds
It's more likely to rain in Death Valley on any given day than it is for a California legislator to vote in opposition to the majority of his or her party on any given bill, a new Bee analysis shows. [The Sacramento Bee] Read More
Study finds west is best for sleep
If you're feeling well rested this morning, it might be because you live out West. [Casper Star-Tribune] Read More
Taxes and bonds top local ballots
Across Southern California, recession-pinched cities and school districts are asking their voters for help in Tuesday's local elections. [Los Angeles Times] Read More
California killer's case back before Supreme Court
WASHINGTON -- The U.S. Supreme Court is considering, for the third time, the case of a California murderer who was sentenced to die in 1982 for the brutal killing of a young woman. [Los Angeles Times] Read More
California may pull the plug on power-guzzling flat-screen TVs
SAN FRANCISCO -- The state that first championed the ban on energy-hogging refrigerators in the 1970s now has its sights set on power-hungry TVs. [The Christian Science Monitor] Read More
In Colorado, all eyes on unaffiliated voters
For decades, Colorado was one of those square states in a sea of red on political maps. But in 2004 that started to change when voters abandoned a long history of electing Republicans and began picking Democrats. Now Colorado looks positively blue. [National Public Radio (Audio)] Read More
Gates Foundation funds made available for state Race to the Top application
The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation has announced that it will open up its offer of financial help with the Race to the Top application to all states. That's good news for Colorado, which will likely apply for the funds. [Colorado Independent] Read More
Aspen biz group eyes taking on U.S. Chamber for its climate-denying ways
More Colorado companies and business organizations are piling on with the Obama administration in an escalating war of words with the rigidly conservative U.S. Chamber of Commerce over climate change and other points of contention. [Colorado Independent] Read More
Hundreds in Denver, Colorado Springs still need hepatitis C testing
Four months after a terrorizing and high- profile hepatitis C outbreak linked to hospital drug theft, hundreds of patients who might have been exposed to the liver disease still may not have been tested. [The Denver Post] Read More
7,500 jobs in state linked to stimulus
The federal economic stimulus package has helped create or retain more than 7,500 jobs in Connecticut, the Obama administration reported Friday, citing reports from the companies and state agencies that have received some of the $160 billion already distributed nationwide. [The Day (New London)] Read More
More H1N1 vaccine soon to arrive in state
U.S. Sen. Joseph I. Lieberman, I-Conn., said 100,000 more doses of H1N1 flu vaccine will come to Connecticut this week, bringing it closer to the amount promised by government officials. [New Haven Register] Read More
Gerry Garcia running for secretary of the state
New Haven resident Gerry Garcia, who holds undergraduate and master's degrees from Yale University, has announced that he is running for Secretary of the State. [The Hartford Courant] Read More
Voters across the state to go to polls
Connecticut voters will go to the polls Tuesday in 162 towns where some races for top local offices have been contentious - and unusual. [The Day (New London)] Read More
Officials wonder if upgrading rail line will be worthwhile, produce results
Connecticut is among 34 states trying to get a piece of the $8 billion in high-speed rail funding that President Barack Obama's administration plans to award this winter. [The Hartford Courant] Read More
State targets invasive plants
Connecticut authorities are hoping that new projects in four towns will help stop the spread of fast-growing invasive plants. [The Day (New London)] Read More
Ground beef recall linked to illness in Maine
PORTLAND, Maine -- A New York-based manufacturer is recalling about 456,00 pounds of ground beef products after people become ill in Maine, Connecticut and Massachusetts, according to the federal Food Safety and Inspection Service. [Portland Press Herald] Read More
State schedule of swine flu vaccinations at schools
State officials have released the schedule of H1N1 vaccinations at schools that will begin today. The H1N1 (swine flu) nasal spray vaccine will be given to elementary pupils with parental permission. Those forms had to be returned last month. [The News Journal (New Castle-Wilmington)] Read More
Tyler-McConnell Bridge lane closures begin
Daytime lane closures begin today on Del. 141 at the Tyler-McConnell Bridge, the Delaware Department of Transportation said. [The News Journal (New Castle-Wilmington)] Read More
Miami-Dade pilot court program for mentally ill allows treatment
At 18, Keith Zapata's mind plunged into chaos. Suffering from schizophrenia and addicted to crack cocaine, he heard voices warning of impending doom and saw visions of Jesus in the sky. Then he landed in jail, for punching out a car window near the Miami River last December. [The Miami Herald] Read More
Foreign investors dominate in South Florida real estate purchases
While foreign cash buyers have boosted real estate sales in South Florida, developers want to make sure financing isn't the issue keeping even more from owning a home. [The Miami Herald] Read More
Fla. lawmakers propose banning felons owning pain clinics
MIAMI -- Lawmakers announced Friday that they will be filing a bill that would require the state to revoke or deny operating licenses for pain clinics operated by convicted felons. [The Miami Herald] Read More
Rubio warming up Panhandle voters
NAVARRE, Fla. -- Marco Rubio, the first Cuban-American Republican from Miami to seek statewide office, got a warm reception from Panhandle voters during a campaign swing last week. [The Miami Herald] Read More
UCF student leaders urge students to find ideas to save Bright Futures
ORLANDO, Fla. -- Student-government leaders at the University of Central Florida, worried about future cuts and alterations to the state's Bright Futures merit scholarships, are working on proposals they hope will help preserve the program for future generations. [The Orlando Sentinel] Read More
Emerging trends will change business
If the morning's coffee didn't get folks going early Friday at the FSU Real Estate Trends & Networking Conference, then John Doggett's assessment of emerging global conditions probably did. Maybe it was more like a splash of cold water in the face. [Tallahassee Democrat] Read More
Department cracking down on business license violators
The Department of Business and Professional Regulation is planning statewide sweeps and stings this week to combat unlicensed business activity. [Tallahassee Democrat] Read More
Caucus wants to lure film industry to Florida
Florida's Film, Entertainment and Television Caucus will make its debut Tuesday in Tallahassee as an advocate for the movie and TV business, aided by actor Jeffrey Donovan of the hit USA Network show "Burn Notice," which is filmed in Miami. [Tallahassee Democrat] Read More
Destructive cogongrass threatens crops, timber
An invader is on the march in the Deep South, wreaking ecological havoc, cutting production in timber and agricultural crops and creating an extreme fire danger along the way. [Montgomery Advertiser] Read More
Endangered status sought for loggerhead sea turtles
BOCA RATON, Fla. -- The number of loggerhead sea-turtle nests has plunged in recent years, prompting calls to reclassify the turtles as ``endangered.'' [The Palm Beach Post] Read More
Victim of wrongful incarceration refuses reparations because his legal costs aren't fully covered
FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. -- A Fort Lauderdale man only needs to sign a few legal papers to start receiving $179,000 from the state and become the first wrongfully convicted person compensated under a new Florida law. [The Sun-Sentinel (South Florida)] Read More
White House -- Stimulus responsible for almost 25,000 jobs in Ga.
Nearly 25,000 jobs have been created or saved so far through stimulus spending in Georgia, the federal government reported Friday. Most of those 24,681 jobs are in state or local governments or public school systems, according to state officials. [The Atlanta Journal-Constitution] Read More
State keeps 'triple-A' bond rating, but danger lurks
Wall Street's top bond-rating agencies confirmed Georgia's top-shelf financial status Friday, but one warned that the state faces an additional $360 million in budget cuts this fiscal year. [The Atlanta Journal-Constitution] Read More
New mental health director faces difficult task, critics
Dr. Frank Shelp, commissioner of the state Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities, inherited services that had been buried in the state's sprawling bureaucracy, and which were loaded with problems. [The Atlanta Journal-Constitution] Read More
More high school students are taking courses online
FORSYTH, Ga. -- The state started offering virtual courses in 2005 because some schools, especially rural ones, couldn't offer many Advanced Placement or specialty courses, which left motivated students at a disadvantage. [The Macon Telegraph] Read More
Georgia governor candidates mixed on opt-out
The opt-out idea drew a mixed response from the cast of candidates for Georgia governor. [The Augusta Chronicle] Read More
Complaints against judges turn into lengthy probes
Georgians who turn to the Judicial Qualifications Commission to investigate and unseat errant judges must accept that when the accused is a judge, justice moves at a snail's pace and almost entirely in secret. [The Atlanta Journal-Constitution] Read More
Campaign for Baldwin area House seat running red hot
The campaign to replace Bobby Parham in the Georgia Legislature has seen some mudslinging as the state Democratic Party tries to hold onto the seat, and the son of a Middle Georgia political legend tries to take it amid questions about his business practices and his past as a lobbyist. But the No. 1 political issue in Milledgeville and Baldwin County remains clear: jobs. [The Macon Telegraph] Read More
Substitute teachers aren't immune to cuts
After furloughing teachers and shrinking their support staffs, some Georgia school systems have a new target for budget cuts: substitute teachers. [The Atlanta Journal-Constitution] Read More
Destructive cogongrass threatens crops, timber
An invader is on the march in the Deep South, wreaking ecological havoc, cutting production in timber and agricultural crops and creating an extreme fire danger along the way. [Montgomery Advertiser] Read More
Group pushing Hawaiians for census
In the 16th century, Big Island ruler Umi a Liloa made sure all native Hawaiians on the island were counted. [Honolulu Star-Bulletin] Read More
Ruling on substitute teachers' underpayment case is upheld
The Intermediate Court of Appeals has upheld a 2005 Circuit Court ruling that found the Department of Education underpaid Hawaii substitute teachers millions of dollars. [Honolulu Star-Bulletin] Read More
Stimulus choices draw fire
U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan wrote governors a letter last April explaining the purpose of $48.6 billion in federal stimulus money meant to stabilize public education during the recession. [The Honolulu Advertiser] Read More
Visitors to Idaho's state parks will notice the cuts made at the Department of Parks and Recreation
At a time when state recreational facilities are seeing an 11 percent increase in visitors, the department is cutting staff and pinching every penny. [The Idaho Statesman (Boise)] Read More
Idaho school district to restart copier bids
The largest school district in the state plans to restart the bidding process with copier companies for their services in November, nearly three months after recanting on a decision to award the contract to Xerox Corp. [Idaho State Journal (Pocatello)] Read More
Doors slam on Idaho renters with companion animals
COEUR D'ALENE, Idaho — Many Idaho landlords are breaking federal housing laws that involve renters with doctor-prescribed companion animals, an official with the Intermountain Fair Housing Council says. [The Idaho Statesman (Boise)] Read More
State funding back in the red, Senior Services cuts staff again
Officials of Senior Services of Central Illinois thought the agency's finances might be back on track in August, when Senior Services, after numerous phone calls to legislators and state agencies, got a large payment from the state of Illinois. [The State Journal-Register (Springfield)] Read More
Illinois parental notification law goes into effect Tuesday
Physicians in Illinois this week must begin notifying a parent or guardian when a girl 17 or younger seeks an abortion -- a rule abortion opponents long have sought, but which critics say could keep minors from seeking safe procedures. [Chicago Tribune] Read More
Stimulus gave state 16,000 school, highway jobs
According to figures released Friday by federal officials, the state had the seventh-most stimulus-related jobs of a total 640,329 across the country through the end of September. [Chicago Tribune] Read More
Illinois' borrowing bonanza
Facing both an election and the politically unpalatable prospects of raising taxes or cutting social programs, Gov. Pat Quinn and lawmakers increasingly have turned to borrowing as a quick fix and are on track to rack up more than $6.5 billion in loans to keep the state afloat. [Chicago Tribune] Read More
Illinois legislative leaders set to sidestep limits
It took the corruption arrest of a sitting governor, 10 months of political sparring and two attempts before top lawmakers and reform advocates could agree on Illinois' first-ever sweeping restrictions on campaign donations. [Chicago Tribune] Read More
Appeals for public transit help go nowhere
It isn't a doomsday forecast, but winter promises to be bleaker for commuters after Gov. Pat Quinn and lawmakers failed to come up with any financial relief for mass transit. [Chicago Tribune] Read More
Jim Ryan tries to avenge governor's loss to Rod Blagojevich in comeback attempt
Former Illinois Atty. Gen. Jim Ryan, who lost to Democrat Rod Blagojevich in the 2002 governor's race, will be attempting a political comeback by filing petitions to seek next year's Republican governor nomination, aides said today. [Chicago Tribune] Read More
Health insurance bill awaits governor's signature
A bill awaiting Gov. Pat Quinn's signature would give most policyholders the right to an external appeal of claim denials by their insurance company. [Quad-City Times] Read More
Alone in life, but together in death -- Indigent burials grow in down economy
Most of the indigents are identified, but their families either can't be located or are unwilling or unable to pay for a better resting place. [Chicago Tribune] Read More
Swine flu -- Worst-case outbreak could severely strain hospitals
For a mere peek into the potential difficulties of managing a worst-case outbreak of swine flu, one need only look back at a few weeks in May at Children's Memorial Hospital on Chicago's North Side. [Chicago Tribune] Read More
Indictment changes were 'unprofessional,' Illinois appeals court rules
Despite chastising Cook County prosecutors, judges let sex-assault conviction stand. [Chicago Tribune] Read More
Pat Quinn accuses Dan Hynes of hitting spa in heat of budget mess
The race for the Democratic governor nomination got more combative Saturday when Gov. Pat Quinn launched a TV ad accusing Comptroller Dan Hynes of skipping out during the state's budget mess and "hitting a spa in Chicago." [Chicago Tribune] Read More
Durbin calls for fast-track funds for highway repairs
WASHINGTON -- Sen. Dick Durbin is urging increased federal spending on highway repairs as early as next year. [Daily Herald (Arlington Heights)] Read More
Plan floated to limit local power over video poker
Faced with growing opposition to video gambling machines in bars and restaurants across the state, lawmakers moved Friday to make it harder for cities and counties to ban them in the future. [Daily Herald (Arlington Heights)] Read More
Quinn's disputed appointment to Africa backs out
A former chief of the state human services agency has decided not to accept a new job offered by Gov. Pat Quinn to head an expanded trade office in Africa. [Chicago Tribune] Read More
Quinn faces decision on hunting, fishing fees
Whether hunters and anglers soon have to pay more to indulge their hobbies is now in Gov. Pat Quinn's hands. [Quad-City Times] Read More
Quinn appoints members to economic panel
CHICAGO -- Gov. Pat Quinn has appointed 35 members to the state's Economic Recovery Commission. [Chicago Tribune] Read More
Study finds west is best for sleep
If you're feeling well rested this morning, it might be because you live out West. [Casper Star-Tribune] Read More
White House -- 16,000 Indiana jobs, 650,000 nationwide funded by stimulus
A new White House report on the number of jobs linked to the $787 billion federal stimulus program has re-ignited a debate over President Barack Obama's effort to jump-start the economy. [Evansville Courier and Press] Read More
Debate heats up over revamped teacher license rule
INDIANAPOLIS -- Indiana schools chief Tony Bennett has never been afraid to ruffle a few feathers. [The Indianapolis Star] Read More
Schools slowly raise health costs for top staff
GREENWOOD, IND -- A struggling economy, rising costs and concerns about fairness have prompted Indiana school districts to slowly begin abandoning a long-held policy of offering administrators health insurance for $1 or less a year. [The Indianapolis Star] Read More
NW Indiana group hopes to attract federal money
HAMMOND, IND. -- A newly formed economic development district hopes to bring millions of dollars to northwest Indiana after years of missing out on federal money that could have helped redevelop the economically strapped region. [The Indianapolis Star] Read More
Illinois parental notification law goes into effect Tuesday
Physicians in Illinois this week must begin notifying a parent or guardian when a girl 17 or younger seeks an abortion -- a rule abortion opponents long have sought, but which critics say could keep minors from seeking safe procedures. [Chicago Tribune] Read More
Study finds west is best for sleep
If you're feeling well rested this morning, it might be because you live out West. [Casper Star-Tribune] Read More
Ohio voters could OK competition for Indiana, Kentucky gambling
INDIANAPOLIS -- A question on Tuesday's election ballot could determine whether Indiana loses more than $100 million in tax revenue and Kentucky's horseracing industry falls farther behind in the race for casino profits. [The Courier-Journal (Louisville)] Read More
Indictment changes were 'unprofessional,' Illinois appeals court rules
Despite chastising Cook County prosecutors, judges let sex-assault conviction stand. [Chicago Tribune] Read More
Transit systems face difficulties with funding
Iowa's public transportation systems have huge hurdles ahead, state officials said Saturday. [The Des Moines Register] Read More
Names of fired caregivers withheld
The state of Iowa is again keeping secret the names of some Iowans fired from care facilities because of criminal activity or abuse. [The Des Moines Register] Read More
DNR investigates manure runoff into NW Iowa stream
HALBUR, IOWA -- Department of Natural Resources officials are investigating a manure runoff from an open feedlot in Carroll County that affected at least five miles of a stream. [Sioux City Journal] Read More
Local gay marriage advocates push ahead
Two Iowa City women could have said "mission accomplished" six months ago after they and five other couples won a lawsuit legalizing gay marriage in Iowa, but they didn't. [Iowa City Press-Citizen] Read More
Ferentz still state's highest-paid employee
University of Iowa football coach Kirk Ferentz has remained Iowa's highest-paid state employee, a state employee salary database released today shows. [The Des Moines Register] Read More
State sends prosecutor its findings on Atalissa
The Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation has completed its investigation into Henry's Turkey Service and its alleged exploitation of mentally retarded processing-plant workers. [The Des Moines Register] Read More
Glenwood urged to limit reports
A consultant at a state-run home for the disabled recently proposed that the facility limit reporting resident-care problems to state and federal regulators. [The Des Moines Register] Read More
More cities hit hard for sewer violations
After issuing 28 sanctions for sewage permit violations and a couple of small fines, the state of Iowa filed a lawsuit in March against the city, alleging excess discharges dating back to at least 1991. [The Des Moines Register] Read More
Carlson -- Present-day budget cuts reach into Iowa's past
Nobody is paying much attention to the part of government that educates Iowans about our heritage and preserves tens of thousands of artifacts, some dating back hundreds of years before Iowa became a state on Dec. 28, 1846. [The Des Moines Register] Read More
Group holds summit on job options, health care
The summit, which was attended by church congregations, U.S. Rep. Leonard Boswell, U.S. Sen. Charles Grassley, state legislators and area business leaders, was held after AMOS member institutions held more than 300 small-group meetings this fall that asked people: "What pressures do you face in your family or household that you wish were different?" [The Des Moines Register] Read More
Illinois parental notification law goes into effect Tuesday
Physicians in Illinois this week must begin notifying a parent or guardian when a girl 17 or younger seeks an abortion -- a rule abortion opponents long have sought, but which critics say could keep minors from seeking safe procedures. [Chicago Tribune] Read More
Kansas high court backs ban on wind farms
The Kansas Supreme Court has ruled that Wabaunsee County commissioners have the right to prohibit the construction of commercial wind farms in their county. [Kansas City Star] Read More
Governor tabs new commerce secretary, defends Kerr
Gov. Mark Parkinson on Friday named William Thornton acting secretary of the Kansas Department of Commerce and vigorously defended the departing secretary, Dave Kerr, who has been accused of unethical conduct by House Republican leaders. [The Lawrence Journal-World] Read More
Can reducing the number of school districts solve state budget woes?
Kansas has 293 school districts ranging in size from West Solomon Valley in northwest Kansas with 39 students to Wichita with 49,744 students. [Wichita Eagle] Read More
Parkinson raises the possibility of a tax hike as revenue comes up another $15 million short of projections
As state revenues continued to fall, Gov. Mark Parkinson said Friday that it's possible he'll propose a tax increase to lift the budget out of the hole. [The Lawrence Journal-World] Read More
Study will review purposes of Missouri River dams
A Missouri River study ordered by Congress will provide a long overdue review of the 1944 law that spelled out the purposes of the river's six dams, officials from states along the Missouri said Thursday. [Kansas City Star] Read More
Study finds west is best for sleep
If you're feeling well rested this morning, it might be because you live out West. [Casper Star-Tribune] Read More
Maine marriage law has nation engaged
Kansas crop farmer Terry Lawrence first read about Maine's ballot box showdown over gay marriage from online news sites catering to conservative Christians. [Bangor Daily News] Read More
New estimate cuts pension shortfall by $1.1 billion
A recently released report on the Kentucky Retirement Systems contains a speck of good news: the multi-billion dollar shortfall facing the state employee pension plan is $1.1 billion less than originally forecast. [The Courier-Journal (Louisville)] Read More
Lawmakers will face a$1.19 billion question
When lawmakers return to Frankfort in January, one number will loom large: $1.19 billion. According to preliminary estimates, that's how much money lawmakers must find in the couch cushions of state government to continue spending at current levels through June 2012. [Lexington Herald-Leader] Read More
KACo board in dark on excessive spending
A former president of the Kentucky Association of Counties was concerned when he found that the organization had spent thousands of dollars on staff Christmas gifts, he told state auditors recently. [Lexington Herald-Leader] Read More
Ohio voters could OK competition for Indiana, Kentucky gambling
INDIANAPOLIS -- A question on Tuesday's election ballot could determine whether Indiana loses more than $100 million in tax revenue and Kentucky's horseracing industry falls farther behind in the race for casino profits. [The Courier-Journal (Louisville)] Read More
Bridge authority members named
Gov. Steve Beshear and Louisville Mayor Jerry Abramson on Friday named members of a new bi-state bridges authority — appointments that won the endorsement of groups with conflicting views of the Ohio River Bridges Project. [The Courier-Journal (Louisville)] Read More
Civil service pay change on the table
Civil service officials are considering a system that gives individual government managers more of a say on which state workers get pay raises and how much. [The Advocate (Baton Rouge)] Read More
Jefferson Parish faces tough budget decisions as sales tax revenue continues to decline
NEW ORLEANS, LA. -- Jefferson Parish's post-Hurricane Katrina boom in sales tax collections has officially gone bust. [The Times-Picayune (New Orleans)] Read More
Destructive cogongrass threatens crops, timber
An invader is on the march in the Deep South, wreaking ecological havoc, cutting production in timber and agricultural crops and creating an extreme fire danger along the way. [Montgomery Advertiser] Read More
Maine to vote on gay marriage
Maine residents will decide Tuesday whether to repeal a law allowing same-sex marriage, an effort that has succeeded in every state where it has been put before voters. [The Washington Post] Read More
Maine marriage law has nation engaged
Kansas crop farmer Terry Lawrence first read about Maine's ballot box showdown over gay marriage from online news sites catering to conservative Christians. [Bangor Daily News] Read More
Get-out-the-vote effort in high gear
BANGOR, Maine — Hordes of volunteers armed with lawn signs and cell phones made a final push for votes over the weekend as Mainers prepared to cast ballots on issues ranging from gay marriage to government spending. [Bangor Daily News] Read More
Maine's vote on gay marriage draws national attention
"As Maine goes, so goes the nation" is a political cliché long since out of use. [The Christian Science Monitor] Read More
Questions for John Baldacci -- The wedding march
Last spring, you signed a bill that made Maine the fifth state in this country to legalize same-sex marriage. But this Tuesday, in a referendum known as Question 1, the citizens of Maine will be voting on whether to repeal the new law. In what way is this a national issue? [The New York Times] Read More
Vermonters push for gay marriage
Don McIntyre said he never thought he'd be one of those telemarketing types who call people at dinner time with a string of questions, but there he was last month, dialing numbers, interrupting dinners. McIntyre is one of dozens of Vermonters who have pitched in to push for same-sex marriage in Maine. [Burlington Free Press] Read More
Ground beef recall linked to illness in Maine
PORTLAND, Maine -- A New York-based manufacturer is recalling about 456,00 pounds of ground beef products after people become ill in Maine, Connecticut and Massachusetts, according to the federal Food Safety and Inspection Service. [Portland Press Herald] Read More
Study weighs Maine homeless housing costs
A new study says it's cheaper for taxpayers if government provides supportive housing for disabled, homeless people than it is to do nothing. [Bangor Daily News] Read More
Legislator wants to fix policies that add to school dropout rate
PORTLAND, Maine — State Sen. Justin Alfond is sponsoring a bill that would require the Maine Department of Education to take steps to increase the state's high school graduation rate to 90 percent by 2016. [Portland Press Herald] Read More
Reading the election-turnout tea leaves
Secretary of State Matt Dunlap is predicting a 35 percent voter turnout on Tuesday, despite heavy advertising and get-out-the-vote efforts on both sides of the same-sex marriage debate. [Kennebec Journal] Read More
State ballots tackle controversial issues Tuesday
Voters in six states will decide Tuesday on a range of hot-button issues, from same-sex marriage and medical marijuana laws to borrowing funds for open space. [USA Today] Read More
Maine's cranberry growers find their healthy product under siege
BANGOR, Maine -- This wasn't such a good summer for cranberries, a niche crop in Washington County, experts and berry farmers agree. Too much rain caused the cranberry vines to grow like crazy, putting all their energy into vines and none into berries. [Bangor Daily News] Read More
Study calls Md. smart growth a flop
An innovative policy to fight suburban sprawl catapulted Maryland into the national spotlight a decade ago and became then-Gov. Parris N. Glendening's principal legacy. [The Washington Post] Read More
Md. gives Constellation deal a yellow light
Regulators appointed by Maryland Gov. Martin O'Malley announced Friday that they have offered conditional approval to let Constellation Energy Group sell nearly half its nuclear assets, including those in Calvert County, to French energy giant EDF in a move designed to lead to construction of the first new commercial nuclear reactor project in the United States in more than three decades. [The Washington Post] Read More
Council panel to vote on pregnancy clinics bill
BALTIMORE, Md. -- A Baltimore City Council panel is set to take a key vote today on controversial legislation that would require pregnancy clinics that don't perform abortions or distribute birth control to post signs stating just that. [The Sun (Baltimore)] Read More
Climate change poses rising threat to marshland
BLACKWATER NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE, Md. -- Tens of thousands of migrating waterfowl, one of the nation's largest populations of breeding bald eagles and the endangered Delmarva fox squirrel all call Cambridge's Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge home. And all are vulnerable to the rising sea levels that threaten coastal marshland. [The Capital (Annapolis)] Read More
County hospitals took financial hits
Anne Arundel County's two hospitals lost more than $36 million in the last fiscal year, a figure that administrators at both facilities attribute to stock market fluctuations. [The Capital (Annapolis)] Read More
Foreclosure glut causing lawyer shortage
The pileup of foreclosure cases glutting local courtrooms has exposed a growing problem with the legal system: There just aren't enough lawyers to go around for all the struggling homeowners who need the help. [The Capital (Annapolis)] Read More
ICC was always intended to exclude most people
BALTIMORE, Md. -- There wasn't much public in the public hearing held by the Maryland Transportation Authority last week in Beltsville on its proposed tolls on the just-around-the-corner Intercounty Connector. [The Sun (Baltimore)] Read More
Justice institute to study Pr. George's jail
The Prince George's County jail, plagued in recent years by allegations of corruption, incompetence and brutality, has entered into a partnership with a nonprofit group to improve management practices and develop a model for independent oversight of the Upper Marlboro facility, officials said yesterday. [The Washington Post] Read More
State cuts put holes in dental program
CAPE COD, Mass. -- Program organizers hope ... patients served by Cape Cod Dentist Care never find out. But they say the program is running out of money since the state ceased funding it as of June 30. [Cape Cod Times] Read More
Tribes seek halt to proposed Cape Cod wind farm
MASHPEE, Mass. — From a blustery perch over a Cape Cod beach, Chuckie Green gestures toward a stretch of horizon where he says construction of the nation's first offshore wind farm would destroy his Indian tribe's religion. [Boston Herald] Read More
New transit merger faces a few snarls
The Massachusetts Turnpike Authority runs a sophisticated control room in South Boston, where 60 feet of video monitors display real-time views from 550 traffic cameras across the state. [The Boston Globe] Read More
Banks, collection firms pursue claims after homes foreclosed
Hank Lane figured that when he lost his Groton home to foreclosure in 2008, at least his long-running financial nightmare had come to an end. He was wrong. [Boston Herald] Read More
Nantucket scallopers hope for bumper crop
NANTUCKET, Mass. — Fishermen motoring into Nantucket Harbor today for opening day of commercial scalloping season hope bountiful harvest projections will pan out, and wipe from memory last year's acrimonious winter of paltry catches and controversial regulations. [Cape Cod Times] Read More
Legislature eyes crackdown on toxics
Massachusetts lawmakers are considering tighter restrictions on the use of toxic chemicals in consumer products as a way to encourage the use of safer alternatives. [Boston Herald] Read More
Ground beef recall linked to illness in Maine
PORTLAND, Maine -- A New York-based manufacturer is recalling about 456,00 pounds of ground beef products after people become ill in Maine, Connecticut and Massachusetts, according to the federal Food Safety and Inspection Service. [Portland Press Herald] Read More
Mid-Michigan may bear brunt of state cuts
Layoffs loom as dust settles from budget showdown. [Detroit Free Press] Read More
Granholm -- Signed budget painful
Gov. Jennifer Granholm vetoed more than 70 items Friday while signing the final six bills for a 2009-10 budget, but did not find enough funding to restore cuts to college scholarships, local government and Medicaid. (Also see: MI: 2010 budget reforms tougher) [Detroit Free Press] Read More
Granholm -- Michigan budget 'fight is not over'
Gov. Jennifer Granholm put the 2009-10 budget to bed Friday, but vowed "the fight is not over" because cuts to priorities are "too painful." [Detroit Free Press] Read More
Stimulus gives Michigan a jolt
Michigan has received $5.2 billion in federal stimulus money, split between 3,999 federal contracts, grants and loans, according to data released Friday by the White House. [Detroit Free Press] Read More
Michigan child support pleas flood courts
Parents pinched by the recession are flooding courts across the state with requests for reductions in child support payments. [The Detroit News] Read More
2010 budget reforms tougher
A still-struggling economy combined with a leaner stimulus package from the federal government spell deep trouble for a governor and Legislature that took an extra month to finish this year's budget. [The Detroit News] Read More
State Public Service Commissioner -- Electric rates higher; Natural gas prices lower
MUSKEGON -- Consumers will face higher electrical rates but pay less this winter for natural gas as a transformation of Michigan's energy sector will emerge in the next five years. [Grand Rapids Press] Read More
Medical pot creates workplace dilemma
Employers are facing tough issues as they try to navigate the state's fledgling medical marijuana law, such as the difference between "smoke" and "ingest." [Detroit Free Press] Read More
It's official -- State Fair a goner
Fans of the Michigan State Fair said most of their good-byes in September, when the oldest fair in the country closed for what they feared was the last time. [Detroit Free Press] Read More
George Perles serious about run for Michigan governor
The 75-year-old former Michigan State football coach, a Democrat, intends to run for governor and told The Detroit News he will begin his campaign after New Year's Day. [The Detroit News] Read More
MSU considers department closings
Squeezed by shrinking state funding, Michigan State University may close two of its departments -- Geological Sciences and Communicative Sciences and Disorders -- and discontinue several majors. [Detroit Free Press] Read More
School bus inspections to resume
When Granholm signed a budget for the Michigan State Police today, she directed the department to find money within its own budget to continue the inspections. [Detroit Free Press] Read More
Despite strange end to budget battle, Dillon, Bishop friendly
House speaker warns major hurdles are ahead. [Detroit Free Press] Read More
Governor won't veto MSU Extension funding
Gov. Jennifer Granholm will not veto funding for the Michigan State University agricultural extension and experiment station programs, as many anticipated, state officials said Thursday. [Detroit Free Press] Read More
State investigates workers in woman's neglect death
The state's Department of Human Services is investigating why its workers failed to help a struggling Southfield woman take care of her bedridden mother, who eventually died of neglect, despite repeated pleas for help and multiple visits to her home that documented the mother's perilous condition. [Detroit Free Press] Read More
AP analysis -- Hardest-hit areas recovering slowly
Michigan was identified as the second most affected state, with four counties in southeast Michigan among the 20 worst in the nation. [The Detroit News] Read More
Illinois parental notification law goes into effect Tuesday
Physicians in Illinois this week must begin notifying a parent or guardian when a girl 17 or younger seeks an abortion -- a rule abortion opponents long have sought, but which critics say could keep minors from seeking safe procedures. [Chicago Tribune] Read More
Study finds west is best for sleep
If you're feeling well rested this morning, it might be because you live out West. [Casper Star-Tribune] Read More
Gambling opponents speak out
Opponents of the gambling issue on Tuesday's ballot stepped up their attacks yesterday on the Michigan businessman who would own two Ohio casinos, producing a retired police officer who said the would-be casino tycoon lied about his college arrest on suspicion of running a gambling ring. [The Columbus Dispatch] Read More
Protected aquifer feared at risk
MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. -- Pooling underneath the Twin Cities area is drinking water so old and pristine that it's protected by state law. It can't be used for industrial purposes in the seven-county metro area. [Minneapolis Star Tribune] Read More
Empty desks, offices -- Cities plan for H1N1
Communities across the Twin Cities area are ready for a full-blown emergency, or anything short of it. [Minneapolis Star Tribune] Read More
GOP's Anderson sketches out bid for Minn. governor
Exactly one year from the 2010 election, former State Auditor Pat Anderson is sketching out what she'd do as Minnesota governor. [St. Paul Pioneer Press] Read More
OMG! DPS offers 'Don't Text and Drive' contest
ST. PAUL, Minn. — Minnesota teens who want to tell others about the dangers of texting while driving can help spread the message by entering a TV commercial challenge. [St. Paul Pioneer Press] Read More
Website in Minnesota lifts profile of e-philanthropy
MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. -- GiveMN is a new research tool that aims to increase people's charitable giving online. [Minneapolis Star Tribune] Read More
Study finds west is best for sleep
If you're feeling well rested this morning, it might be because you live out West. [Casper Star-Tribune] Read More
Barbour: The lame duck who isn't
It will be six years this week since Barbour, a Yazoo City native, upended incumbent Democrat Ronnie Musgrove to win the Governor's Mansion, and his time as the state's CEO is winding down. But no one utters the words "lame duck" when referring to Haley Barbour. [The Daily Journal (Tupelo)] Read More
Universities join for cost-saving measures
It's as predictable as day following night. Already hit with a 5 percent budget cut this year and bracing for another 3 percent cut, the state's university system is putting together cost-cutting plans to increase efficiency. [Hattiesburg American] Read More
$3.3M provided for Greenville port
The Port of Greenville has received $3.3 million in state grants to begin upgrades. Work will begin in 2010. [The Sun Herald (Biloxi)] Read More
Swine flu vaccine available in Miss. today
Health officials say swine flu vaccine will be available today at all Mississippi's county health clinics and in some schools. [The Daily Journal (Tupelo)] Read More
Destructive cogongrass threatens crops, timber
An invader is on the march in the Deep South, wreaking ecological havoc, cutting production in timber and agricultural crops and creating an extreme fire danger along the way. [Montgomery Advertiser] Read More
Campaign donations guided by disclosure
In Missouri politics, $5,000 has become an important number. [St. Louis Post-Dispatch] Read More
Study will review purposes of Missouri River dams
A Missouri River study ordered by Congress will provide a long overdue review of the 1944 law that spelled out the purposes of the river's six dams, officials from states along the Missouri said Thursday. [Kansas City Star] Read More
Analysis -- Mo. cuts could unplug virtual school
Budget cuts could force a Missouri school to close midway through the academic year, leaving students with half-earned credits scrambling to complete their education. [St. Louis Post-Dispatch] Read More
Study finds west is best for sleep
If you're feeling well rested this morning, it might be because you live out West. [Casper Star-Tribune] Read More
Illinois parental notification law goes into effect Tuesday
Physicians in Illinois this week must begin notifying a parent or guardian when a girl 17 or younger seeks an abortion -- a rule abortion opponents long have sought, but which critics say could keep minors from seeking safe procedures. [Chicago Tribune] Read More
State says stimulus money results in 4,100 jobs
Montana is reporting that federal stimulus money funneled through the state has so far resulted in more than 4,100 jobs created or saved by the cash infusion, and that most of them came in education and government. [Billings Gazette] Read More
Schweitzer criticized for backing single firm on $70M Internet stimulus project
Gov. Brian Schweitzer's recommendation that one firm get $70 million in federal stimulus funds to expand high-speed Internet service is being blasted by Montana telephone companies and regulators, who say the project won't extend new service to under-served areas. [Missoulian] Read More
Montana court rules against Whitefish
WHITEFISH, Mont. - The Montana Supreme Court has upheld a lower court ruling that a couple's rights were violated when the city of Whitefish denied them a building exemption permit. [Billings Gazette] Read More
What might $335.5 million in state budget cuts look like?
Just how big is $335.5 million, the shortfall that state senators face in a special session this week? Shut down the state prison system for the next two years, and you'll be close to covering the shortfall. [Lincoln Journal Star] Read More
State residents appeal to throw out school bond
OMAHA, Neb. - A group of residents that alleged the Verdigre school board repeatedly violated open meetings laws before pushing for a school bond issue has taken its case to the Nebraska Supreme Court. [Lincoln Journal Star] Read More
Schools in tough spot if state cuts funds now
When lawmakers meet this week to talk budget cuts, education will undoubtedly be part of the discussion. State aid comprises about 70 percent of the $1.2 billion aid to local governments - the single biggest pot of money in the state budget. But for school districts, the prospect of cutting from this year's budget is daunting. [Lincoln Journal Star] Read More
Study finds west is best for sleep
If you're feeling well rested this morning, it might be because you live out West. [Casper Star-Tribune] Read More
Life after politics: Many stars decide to stay away
Assembly Speaker Barbara Buckley shocked a lot of Nevadans on Sept. 11 when she ended her political career, at least for now, by deciding against running for governor. [Las Vegas Review-Journal] Read More
Companies vying to power Nevada's future
NV Energy's plan to build a transmission line to move electricity between the northern and southern parts of the state could unnecessarily stick ratepayers with a half-billion-dollar bill, the state's consumer advocate warns. [Las Vegas Sun] Read More
Morale of those with jobs a big issue amid cutbacks
The bad economic news in Las Vegas has become like winter rain in the Pacific Northwest — sometimes it comes in a torrent, other times a mist, but always there. [Las Vegas Sun] Read More
Ceremony welcomes 31 to official citizenship
Onema Bushra, 6, had just one word to describe her feelings after a Friday ceremony where she received her certificate of citizenship: "Happy." [Nevada Appeal (Carson City)] Read More
Banks seeing advantages of home short sales
A prominent real estate analyst says banks are showing more interest in working with financially pinched homeowners in the sales of their "underwater" homes by agreeing to take some of the hit themselves. [Las Vegas Sun] Read More
Study finds west is best for sleep
If you're feeling well rested this morning, it might be because you live out West. [Casper Star-Tribune] Read More
Dothan developer, Riley's staff battle over bingo
Officials with the Country Crossing development in Houston County are complaining that a member of the governor's staff attempted to stop the shipment of about 1,700 electronic gaming machines from Nevada. [Montgomery Advertiser] Read More
It's almost time to go to the polls
MANCHESTER, N.H. -- Every elected position in city government will be up for grabs tomorrow, plus, at long last, voters will have their say on a proposed charter amendment that aims to limit taxes and city spending. [The Union Leader (Manchester)] Read More
Unemployment benefits ending
Unemployment benefits are running out for many state residents, and that number will increase each week unless Washington, D.C., approves an extension. [Concord Monitor] Read More
General Assembly passes bill to limit foreclosures
The run of foreclosures that has taken nearly 6,000 homes and rental properties away from struggling borrowers since January 2008 may soon be running a little more slowly. [The Providence Journal] Read More
Gay marriage to go before Maine voters
In a referendum that is being closely watched across the country and has drawn millions in out-of-state dollars, Maine voters will decide tomorrow whether to repeal a state law that would allow same-sex couples to marry. [Concord Monitor] Read More
Poll -- Corzine, Christie running even
A new poll finds the New Jersey governor's race too close to call. [The Record of Bergen County] Read More
Candidates scramble for votes
From Newark to Camden, Morristown to Middletown, and even the parking lot at Giants Stadium, New Jersey took on the carnival-like feel of a political convention Sunday as the candidates for governor continued their sprint across the state and toward Tuesday's election. [The Record of Bergen County] Read More
Corzine campaign denies connection to man arrested on drug charges
A Paramus man claiming to work for Gov. Jon Corzine's re-election campaign was arrested Friday night on drug charges after police found Ecstasy tablets in his car, authorities said. [The Star-Ledger (Newark)] Read More
Corzine courts Obama backers in all-out push
NEWARK, N.J. — In the final hours of this intensely fought campaign, supporters of Gov. Jon S. Corzine are knocking on doors here with a message for people who voted for Barack Obama: Your president needs you. [The New York Times] Read More
Candidates in mad dash to finish line
Less than 72 hours before voters go to the polls, Democratic Gov. Jon Corzine and Republican Chris Christie barnstormed the state yesterday, each claiming to have momentum going into Election Day and trying to reach for every possible vote. [The Star-Ledger (Newark)] Read More
As H1N1 spreads across N.J., here are some ways to thwart it
Swine flu activity in New Jersey moved from regional to widespread this past week, meaning the H1N1 flu is present in a majority of counties throughout the state. [The Star-Ledger (Newark)] Read More
Being a leader demands vision
Here are questions that haven't been asked during the gubernatorial election campaign: What kind of state should New Jersey be? How should its people live -- separately, divided by race and wealth? Or together, in integrated communities, sharing its riches and its problems? [The Star-Ledger (Newark)] Read More
Why race to lead N.J. is so tight
New Jersey's gubernatorial race, winding down to Tuesday's election after a consistently brutal campaign, is a dead heat between Democratic Gov. Corzine and Republican Christopher J. Christie, in a state where no Republican has won a statewide race in a dozen years. [The Philadelphia Inquirer] Read More
State ballots tackle controversial issues Tuesday
Voters in six states will decide Tuesday on a range of hot-button issues, from same-sex marriage and medical marijuana laws to borrowing funds for open space. [USA Today] Read More
N.J. candidates open a final big push
President Obama urged South Jersey supporters to work hard tomorrow to reelect fellow Democrat Jon Corzine and help the incumbent governor overcome a stiff challenge from Republican Christopher J. Christie. [The Philadelphia Inquirer] Read More
Off-year races may provide insight
WASHINGTON — One year after the election of President Obama, a handful of off-year political contests — including governors' races in New Jersey and Virginia and a Congressional race in upstate New York — offer some clues about how Americans are viewing Mr. Obama, as well as an early measure of the landscape for next year's midterm elections. [The New York Times] Read More
Democrats strive to hold governor posts in two states
NEWARK, N.J. — President Obama swept into New Jersey on Sunday, pleading with his supporters to summon up the enthusiasm they poured into his election last November and deliver a victory for Gov. Jon S. Corzine. [The New York Times] Read More
Pivotal role still possible for 3rd man in New Jersey
EAST HANOVER, N.J. — He has little money left, and his commercials, while witty, seldom show up on television. He has no political organization, and he'll be lucky to muster a few hundred volunteers statewide on Election Day. [The New York Times] Read More
Corzine wows Turnpike tolls will not rise
Gov. Jon S. Corzine said Friday that he had no intention of raising tolls or leasing the New Jersey Turnpike to raise money if he is elected to a second term. [The New York Times] Read More
Bloomberg and Corzine -- 2 leaders, few parallels
A few weeks back, Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg's aides told reporters that the mayor was flirting with endorsing one of Gov. Jon S. Corzine's challengers, which would have been a significant rebuke for a governor he has worked with for years. [The New York Times] Read More
In Tuesday's contests, Steele sees a vote on his leadership
As they campaigned together across Virginia on Thursday and Friday, Republican National Committee Chairman Michael S. Steele praised Robert F. McDonnell, the state's GOP gubernatorial candidate, as an innovative leader. [The Washington Post] Read More
Lawmakers say governor using scare tactics on budget cuts
To some, it sounds like the latest in a list of Halloween-type scares: If Gov. Bill Richardson signs the budget cuts lawmakers approved last week, state parks could close, firefighters could get less training, public employees could be furloughed and there could be "an inability to provide sanitary conditions in parks statewide." [Santa Fe New Mexican] Read More
Legislative leaders urge Guv to not cut Medicaid
Acknowledging the Governor's opinion that their budget fix may not protect the state's medicaid program from cuts "may very well be correct," New Mexico legislative leaders delivered a letter to Gov. Bill Richardson today, urging him not to make cuts to Medicaid, the program that provides health care funding for at least 450,000 low-income New Mexicans. [New Mexico Independent] Read More
Get ready for challengers, educators' union warns state lawmakers
New Mexico state lawmakers struggled to pass a mid-year state budget fix last week, but in a possible sign of how difficult things may become politically, at least one public employee union is already throwing out a seldom-used threat in New Mexico: Democratic lawmakers, we'll work to unseat you if you cut education. [New Mexico Independent] Read More
Firm faces big fine, possible loss of contract
A firm that took over management of the state's behavioral health care system July 1 has not paid millions of dollars to nonprofits and other companies for work they have completed, the state said Friday. [New Mexico Independent] Read More
Study finds west is best for sleep
If you're feeling well rested this morning, it might be because you live out West. [Casper Star-Tribune] Read More
Taxes for road repairs raided by state
Highway and motor vehicle taxes dedicated to road and bridge repairs continue to be raided to pay the state's operating expenses, leading to a deterioration of New York's infrastructure, according to a report from the Comptroller's Office. [Democrat and Chronicle (Rochester)] Read More
Ex-N.Y. Senate leader faces corruption trial
For more than a decade, state Senate Republican leader Joseph L. Bruno was a top power broker in New York. The backslapping ex-boxer was gruffly unapologetic over the millions in pork projects that he grabbed for his upstate district. [The Washington Post] Read More
Ethics laws on trial
As the trial of former Senate Majority Leader Joseph L. Bruno begins today, state ethics laws, as much as the powerful Republican leader himself, will be on trial. [Times Union (Albany)] Read More
Bruno's trial is seen as a hearing on Albany
The 35-page, eight-count indictment filed by federal prosecutors names a lone defendant: Joseph L. Bruno, the former president of the State Senate and former Republican majority leader. [The New York Times] Read More
State ballots tackle controversial issues Tuesday
Voters in six states will decide Tuesday on a range of hot-button issues, from same-sex marriage and medical marijuana laws to borrowing funds for open space. [USA Today] Read More
GOP petition drive targets license plate fees
County clerks across the state have started online petitions against planned increases in fees on license plates next year. [Democrat and Chronicle (Rochester)] Read More
Scozzafava endorses Owens
Republican Dede Scozzafava today endorsed Democrat Bill Owens, her former opponent, in Tuesday's election to fill the North Country congressional seat formerly held by John McHugh. [Times Union (Albany)] Read More
Ground beef recall linked to illness in Maine
PORTLAND, Maine -- A New York-based manufacturer is recalling about 456,00 pounds of ground beef products after people become ill in Maine, Connecticut and Massachusetts, according to the federal Food Safety and Inspection Service. [Portland Press Herald] Read More
Hearings put Easley on spot
It's not close to being over for Mike Easley. The judgment Friday by the State Board of Elections that evidence suggests Easley, a Democrat who served two terms as governor, committed crimes while in office is the result of only one arm of state and federal probes that are wide-ranging and continuing. [The News & Observer (Raleigh)] Read More
Easley case may spark change
The spectacle of a former governor being called before an elections tribunal to answer for transgressions committed by his campaign was historic in many ways. [The News & Record (Greensboro)] Read More
Oblinger can't shake Mary Easley mess
The job former first lady Mary Easley got at N.C. State University - and its fallout - is following former N.C. State University Chancellor James Oblinger across the country. [The News & Observer (Raleigh)] Read More
New flu drug to be tested at UNC
About 6 patients will participate in trial of drug showing promise in severe cases. [The Charlotte Observer] Read More
Hall -- 'a sad day'
Bob Hall, whose complaint led to the State Board of Elections hearings this week, praised the board's decision. Hall, executive director of Democracy N.C., said the board sent a strong message that it is illegal to try to funnel contributions through a political party. [The News & Observer (Raleigh)] Read More
NC Gov. Aycock historic site in Fremont to reopen
FREMONT, N.C. -- The boyhood home of former North Carolina Gov. Charles Aycock is ready for visitors again. [The Winston-Salem Journal] Read More
North Dakota property tax credit under study
State lawmakers are exploring whether to give most North Dakota homeowners the benefit of a property tax credit normally reserved for seniors and people with disabilities. [The Forum (Fargo)] Read More
Health care merger is today
FARGO -- The merger of the two largest health systems in the Dakotas will lead to more bus trips, officials say. [The Bismarck Tribune] Read More
Study finds west is best for sleep
If you're feeling well rested this morning, it might be because you live out West. [Casper Star-Tribune] Read More
Stimulus jobs in Ohio exceed 17,000 so far, White House says
The federal stimulus package has created or saved 17,095 jobs in Ohio, based on reports covering spending through Sept. 30, the White House announced today. [The Columbus Dispatch] Read More
Workers' insurance premiums estimated to rise 12%
Not only are health premiums expected to increase an average of 12 percent next year in Ohio, but employers are shifting more of these costs to their workers. [The Columbus Dispatch] Read More
Auto registration checks scaring immigrants
News that the state will cancel the car registrations of possibly thousands of undocumented immigrants has caused panic and created rumors among those living in central Ohio. [The Columbus Dispatch] Read More
State may put towing companies on the hook
Legislation being crafted at the Statehouse would give sole regulatory authority to the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio. [The Columbus Dispatch] Read More
Obama, Strickland sliding in Ohio
Approval ratings for both President Barack Obama and Gov. Ted Strickland have dropped in Ohio during the past six months, a newly released poll shows. [The Columbus Dispatch] Read More
Global-warming bill to cost Ohio jobs, Voinovich says
To nobody's surprise, Sen. George V. Voinovich last week announced his firm opposition to a global-warming bill co-sponsored by Democratic Sens. John Kerry of Massachusetts and Barbara Boxer of California. [The Columbus Dispatch] Read More
Casino bid in recession-battered Ohio
Ohio voters on Tuesday will decide whether the recession is a powerful enough force to bring casino gambling to their state. Among the forces arrayed against it: casino and racetrack operators that wouldn't benefit. [The Wall Street Journal] Read More
Absentee mailings might be factor in casino issue
With a close vote possible for Tuesday's casino ballot issue, opponents are concerned that the outcome could be affected by something that has nothing to do with gambling. [The Columbus Dispatch] Read More
Casinos aren't only ballot issue
Of the three state issues Ohioans will decide Tuesday, one sparked red-hot controversy (casinos); the second stirred mild debate (livestock standards); and the third is off the radar (veterans bonuses). [The Columbus Dispatch] Read More
Gambling opponents speak out
Opponents of the gambling issue on Tuesday's ballot stepped up their attacks yesterday on the Michigan businessman who would own two Ohio casinos, producing a retired police officer who said the would-be casino tycoon lied about his college arrest on suspicion of running a gambling ring. [The Columbus Dispatch] Read More
New study ranks top-earners among presidents of private colleges and universities
CLEVELAND, OHIO -- In a study of executive pay at private colleges and universities released today, it's the former president of an area college who stands out with a big payday. [The Plain Dealer (Cleveland)] Read More
Brown joins bill to freeze credit-card interest rates
Sen. Sherrod Brown has signed on to a bill unveiled last week in his Senate Banking Committee that would freeze credit-card interest rates and other fees until a credit-reform law goes into effect next year. [The Columbus Dispatch] Read More
Ohio voters could OK competition for Indiana, Kentucky gambling
INDIANAPOLIS -- A question on Tuesday's election ballot could determine whether Indiana loses more than $100 million in tax revenue and Kentucky's horseracing industry falls farther behind in the race for casino profits. [The Courier-Journal (Louisville)] Read More
Convicted ex-union leader gets state post
Michael Billirakis, the former Ohio teachers-union chief convicted of ethics violations while on the State Teachers Retirement System board, has a new state job. [The Commercial Dispatch (Columbus)] Read More
Dann aide Gutierrez attempted fraud, workers' comp board rules
The man at the heart of the scandal that toppled former Attorney General Marc Dann last year also shortchanged Ohio's workers' compensation fund by improperly classifying employees as independent contractors, a Bureau of Workers Compensation panel ruled this week. [The Columbus Dispatch] Read More
Dann aide found to owe debt to workers' comp
the man at the heart of the scandal that toppled former Attorney General Marc Dann last year also shortchanged Ohio's workers' compensation fund by improperly classifying employees as independent contractors, a Bureau of Workers' Compensation panel ruled. [The Columbus Dispatch] Read More
The Governors race -- One year out
SHERRODSVILLE, OHIO -- On a fall Sunday manufactured in heaven, Gov. Ted Strickland, an ordained Methodist minister, preached to an after-church crowd of Carroll County Democrats, delivering a homily that he will espouse across the Ohioscape for the next year. [The Columbus Dispatch] Read More
Boehner urges support of loan guarantee for Piketon
Under the category of keeping the pressure on, House Minority Leader John Boehner last week wrote to President Barack Obama urging him to make good on past promises to support a federal loan guarantee needed to finance a uranium-enrichment plant in Piketon, Ohio. [The Columbus Dispatch] Read More
New UC president starts today
Gregory Williams will officially start Monday morning as the University of Cincinnati's 27th president. [The Cincinnati Enquirer] Read More
Study finds west is best for sleep
If you're feeling well rested this morning, it might be because you live out West. [Casper Star-Tribune] Read More
State ballots tackle controversial issues Tuesday
Voters in six states will decide Tuesday on a range of hot-button issues, from same-sex marriage and medical marijuana laws to borrowing funds for open space. [USA Today] Read More
Oklahoma tag agents differ in donations
Some Oklahoma tag agents are breaking a law that requires they ask their customers to consider giving $1 for organ donation education, records show. [The Oklahoman (Oklahoma City)] Read More
Officials seek incentives to bring grocers to Oklahoma
Studies show nearly half the state lacks convenient access to nutritious foods. While grocery stores and supermarkets — stores with 50 or more employees — have decreased in the state in the past 10 years, convenience stores, which offer fast foods and snacks, have increased. [The Oklahoman (Oklahoma City)] Read More
Study finds west is best for sleep
If you're feeling well rested this morning, it might be because you live out West. [Casper Star-Tribune] Read More
Today marks the first day of new Oklahoma laws
Most elements of a comprehensive lawsuit reform measure, agreed to in the last days of this year's legislative session after more than two years of bickering, are now law. It's one of nearly 200 state laws that will take effect today. [The Oklahoman (Oklahoma City)] Read More
Emergency updates urged for Oklahomans
During his 13 years with the Oklahoma Highway Patrol, Lt. George Brown said he has performed and assisted in more than 100 notifications, and it never gets easy. Highway patrol investigators usually find next of kin through the deceased motorists' identification or tag check. If that doesn't work, he said, they try the U.S. Postal Service [The Oklahoman (Oklahoma City)] Read More
Stimulus spending adds nearly 10,000 jobs in Oregon
Federal officials said the spending has "created or saved" the equivalent of 640,239 full-time jobs nationwide. Of those, 9,653 belong to Oregonians, according to Friday's report. [The Oregonian (Portland)] Read More
State lowballed cost of green tax breaks
State officials deliberately underestimated the cost of Gov. Ted Kulongoski's plan to lure green energy companies to Oregon with big taxpayer subsidies, resulting in a program that cost 40 times more than unsuspecting lawmakers were told, an investigation by The Oregonian shows. [The Oregonian (Portland)] Read More
Stimulus keeps Oregon highway division busy
The deputy director of the Oregon Department of Transportation's Highway Division leads nearly 3,000 employees — more than most agencies — and manages a two-year budget of $3.6 billion. [Statesman Journal (Salem)] Read More
Bars to keep their lucrative cut of video gambling for next five years
The Oregon Lottery Commission voted unanimously Friday to let bars and taverns keep their current cut of video gambling profits but shortened their contracts slightly after public criticism over the length of the deal. [The Oregonian (Portland)] Read More
Despite rhetoric in Vancouver mayor's race, decisions on tolls for I-5 lie elsewhere
In Washington, the Legislature and the Washington Transportation Commission hold all authority over bridge tolls. In Oregon, it's the Oregon Transportation Commission. [The Oregonian (Portland)] Read More
Oregon group launches drive for same-sex marriage
Gay rights activists on Monday will launch a campaign to persuade Oregonians they should reverse their vote of five years ago and support same-sex marriage. [The Oregonian (Portland)] Read More
Attorney general calls his justice agenda ambitious
John Kroger said he is busy in his first 10 months as attorney general trying to keep campaign promises to step up enforcement of consumer and environmental protection, and to redirect the criminal justice system. [Statesman Journal (Salem)] Read More
State panel clears road projects under new law
The Oregon Transportation Commission has approved the first 14 projects under the 2009 law that will fund an estimated $3 billion in projects over the next decade. [Statesman Journal (Salem)] Read More
Washington vote has some parallels with Oregon issues
Our neighbors to the north will be voting Tuesday on a couple of issues worth noting because they parallel past issues in Oregon. [Statesman Journal (Salem)] Read More
Study finds west is best for sleep
If you're feeling well rested this morning, it might be because you live out West. [Casper Star-Tribune] Read More
Pa. elections -- Little buzz, big importance
For Pennsylvania political junkies, it's a tough year. Just across the Delaware, the New Jersey governor's race sets up as the most intensely watched election in the nation Tuesday. [The Philadelphia Inquirer] Read More
School taxes in Pennsylvania may soar to pay for pension promises
Think your school taxes were high this year? Start saving for 2012-13. [Pittsburgh Tribune-Review] Read More
Eligibility for LIHEAP slashed; 20,000 families may be left out
With Pennsylvania's unemployment rate at its highest in more than 20 years, fewer low-income residents will be able to receive help paying their heating bills this winter. [Pittsburgh Tribune-Review] Read More
Durbin calls for fast-track funds for highway repairs
WASHINGTON -- Sen. Dick Durbin is urging increased federal spending on highway repairs as early as next year. [Daily Herald (Arlington Heights)] Read More
Obama's support from Pa. independents erodes
President Obama received 52 percent of his votes from independents, according to exit polls last November, a margin that was crucial to his victory. And now, as the president's job approval ratings decline, it's no coincidence that so, too, has his support from independents. [National Public Radio (Audio)] Read More
Governor to Legislature -- Finish table games bill
Gov. Ed Rendell is calling for the Legislature to immediately return to the Capitol to finalize a key piece of the state budget, the legalization of table games in casinos. [Pittsburgh Tribune-Review] Read More
Turnpike documents subpoenaed by state grand jury
A Turnpike Commission spokesman today confirmed the agency received a subpoena for records from a statewide grand jury investigating patronage and contracts at the agency. [Pittsburgh Tribune-Review] Read More
PennDOT ramping up efforts on curb cuts
Lawsuits have prompted the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation to budget $820 million over the next decade to replace 117,000 handicapped curb ramps along state roads -- a program that attorneys say would be unnecessary had the agency installed the ramps properly the first time. [Pittsburgh Post-Gazette] Read More
Seasonal flu shots tricky to find, but officials say shortage will end
Production delays and high demand are causing shortages of the seasonal flu shots, in addition to vaccines for the swine flu, health officials said Friday. [Pittsburgh Tribune-Review] Read More
Pennsylvania revives plan to toll Interstate 80
The state is trying again to charge tolls on Interstate 80 and head off a giant gap in transportation funding next year. [Pittsburgh Tribune-Review] Read More
R.I. to distribute $2.3 million in federal aid for energy-efficiency projects
Help is finally on the way for middle-class people who want to make their houses more energy-efficient and save on heating bills. But the assistance is not quite here yet. [The Providence Journal] Read More
Vaccinations begin at schools
The first school-based clinics to vaccinate children against swine flu begin Monday at 10 elementary schools. The clinics, which are free and voluntary, will be held in the afternoon or evening for grade-schoolers. [The Providence Journal] Read More
Gun culture -- Residents load up on permits
So far in 2009, the number of South Carolinians wanting to pack heat nearly has doubled over the previous year as people worry about violent crime and feel threatened by partisan politics. [The State (Columbia)] Read More
How the Boeing deal was done
A week before North Charleston landed a new Boeing jet assembly line, U.S. Sen. Lindsey Graham thought South Carolina had lost the deal. [The State (Columbia)] Read More
Bringing Boeing to S.C. -- The art of the deal
Boeing had considered locating its first 787 Dreamliner assembly line on that chunk of property near Charleston International Airport in 2003. Unable to woo the aerospace giant from its home near Seattle at that time, state business leaders immediately looked toward a second chance. [The Post and Courier (Charleston)] Read More
S.C. State faces $6M shortfall
Orangeburg S.C> -- S.C. State University wanted to have 5,102 students this fall, a steppingstone toward its goal of having 6,000 students by 2014. [The State (Columbia)] Read More
Poll positions for '10 Survey -- Rex first, Ford second among Democrats
Sen. Robert Ford, an underdog Democratic candidate for governor, holds a second-place position in the five-person primary race, according to an internal poll conducted by Jim Rex's campaign. [The State (Columbia)] Read More
After 7 years, Sanford discovers compromise
Want proof that Gov. Mark Sanford may have changed his stripes? [The State (Columbia)] Read More
Destructive cogongrass threatens crops, timber
An invader is on the march in the Deep South, wreaking ecological havoc, cutting production in timber and agricultural crops and creating an extreme fire danger along the way. [Montgomery Advertiser] Read More
Stimulus leaves some questioning job loss
"The stimulus bill is not delivering the benefits promised — including keeping people from losing their jobs," said Republican Sen. John Thune, a critic of the stimulus bill from the beginning. [Capital Journal (Pierre)] Read More
Missouri River faces potential flooding threats next spring
FORT PIERRE, S.D. -- As the rain fell outside, there was no need to show drought-severity maps to the representatives of state, tribal and federal governments gathered Thursday to discuss management of the Missouri River. [Capital Journal (Pierre)] Read More
Rounds -- River navigation must be part of talks
FORT PIERRE -- Gov. Mike Rounds called Friday for governments to take a 21st century approach for uses of the Missouri River. [Capital Journal (Pierre)] Read More
SD Governor's race taking shape
Lt. Gov. Dennis Daugaard and Senate Majority Leader Dave Knudson seem to have drawn the most attention so far in the race for the Republican nomination for governor, but a lot can happen before next June's primary, a political science professor says. [Rapid City Journal] Read More
Merger of largest Dakotas health systems set
The merger of the two largest health systems in the Dakotas will lead to more bus trips, officials say. [Rapid City Journal] Read More
Northern State prez announces capital campaign
Northern State president Jim Smith announced a $27 million capital campaign during his investiture ceremony on Friday. [Rapid City Journal] Read More
Study finds west is best for sleep
If you're feeling well rested this morning, it might be because you live out West. [Casper Star-Tribune] Read More
Lobbyists can still donate to lawmakers through PACs
A growing number of state legislators are expanding their ability to collect and distribute campaign money by establishing personal political action committees, also known as "leadership PACs." [Knoxville News Sentinel] Read More
Flood damage still not tallied
Officials from two of the Northwest Georgia counties hardest hit by flooding last month say they still are not sure just how much damage was done, even though state and federal emergency workers are gone. [Chattanooga Times Free Press] Read More
Young rivals try to unseat veteran TN lawmakers
When it comes to its state senators, Nashville seems to have developed an affinity for experience and longevity. [The Tennessean (Nashville)] Read More
Tennessee No. 1 in payback of debts
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. — Although people in the Volunteer State have filed for bankruptcy in record numbers in recent years, Tennessee is first among states for the number of residents who try to make good on their debts with court-approved payment plans. [Knoxville News Sentinel] Read More
Grant to help clean, revamp memorial to Union soldiers
The 60-foot-tall monument, also known as the Tennessee or Wilder monument, is getting a makeover thanks to $144,444 that the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act gave the to the Department of Veterans Affairs. [Knoxville News Sentinel] Read More
Destructive cogongrass threatens crops, timber
An invader is on the march in the Deep South, wreaking ecological havoc, cutting production in timber and agricultural crops and creating an extreme fire danger along the way. [Montgomery Advertiser] Read More
State, local lawmakers lining up to seek higher offices, but hopes hinge on Hutchison
The thinking goes like this: U.S. Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchison resigns to run for governor. State Sen. Florence Shapiro runs for Hutchison's seat. State Rep. Ken Paxton runs for Shapiro's seat. Various Collin County figures vie for Paxton's seat. And so on. [The Dallas Morning News] Read More
Teachers' trainers must make the grade, too
Texas is among the first states to toughen its standards for colleges of education and other teacher-training programs amid criticism that too many are "cash cows" that produce weak instructors. [The Houston Chronicle] Read More
S.A. legislator dogged by claim he owes $5.5M
A New York finance company that lent state Rep. David Leibowitz millions of dollars for his small law practice claims the legislator failed to make payments that rose to $75,000 a month and has defaulted on $5.5 million in debt. [The San Antonio Express-News] Read More
Emergency alert system now includes cell phones
Central Texans can now receive emergency notifications on their cell phones. [The Austin American-Statesman] Read More
GOP businessman launches bid to unseat Democrat Bolton
Republican Paul Workman began what could be one of 2010's most important battles for a seat in the Legislature when he announced Friday that he'll challenge Democratic state Rep. Valinda Bolton of Austin. [The Austin American-Statesman] Read More
Texas lags in getting swine flu vaccine, but more is on the way
Almost a month after distribution of H1N1 vaccine began, federal statistics released Friday show a significant difference state to state in the per capita shipments of the still-scarce doses. As has been true for several weeks, Texas lagged behind most other states. [The Dallas Morning News] Read More
Study finds west is best for sleep
If you're feeling well rested this morning, it might be because you live out West. [Casper Star-Tribune] Read More
Proposition 8 would let Texas contribute money, property toward building VA hospitals
McALLEN, Texas -- With more than 1.7 million military veterans in Texas and just nine Veterans Affairs hospitals, long drives are not uncommon in some parts of the state with large veteran populations. [The Dallas Morning News] Read More
Comptroller Combs wants Texas tuition program refunds to include earnings
Responding to a backlash from parents, state Comptroller Susan Combs said Friday that she will seek to reverse a recent change in the state's prepaid college tuition plan that would have cost parents who canceled contracts thousands of dollars. [The Dallas Morning News] Read More
State Rep. Terri Hodge planning re-election bid as bribery trial looms
Embattled state Rep. Terri Hodge, whose federal bribery trial is scheduled just days after the March 2 Democratic primary, says her legal troubles won't deter her from running for an eighth term. [The Dallas Morning News] Read More
State ballots tackle controversial issues Tuesday
Voters in six states will decide Tuesday on a range of hot-button issues, from same-sex marriage and medical marijuana laws to borrowing funds for open space. [USA Today] Read More
Destructive cogongrass threatens crops, timber
An invader is on the march in the Deep South, wreaking ecological havoc, cutting production in timber and agricultural crops and creating an extreme fire danger along the way. [Montgomery Advertiser] Read More
The highs and lows of Utah taxes
Imagine two homes with exactly the same $250,000 value, except that one is in the canyonlands country of Blanding and the other is near the crystal blue waters of Bear Lake. [The Deseret Morning News (Salt Lake City)] Read More
Funds dwindling to oversee Utah's hazardous waste
Businesses that handle some of Utah's most dangerous materials are being inspected less often because of dwindling funds to pay for the work. [The Salt Lake Tribune] Read More
More than 100 arrested in Halloween DUI blitz
State troopers made 124 DUI-related arrests during a Halloween blitz, according to numbers released Sunday by the Utah Highway Patrol. [The Salt Lake Tribune] Read More
Poll shows most Utahns don't intend to get H1N1 vaccine
Most Utahns don't intend to get vaccinated against the novel H1N1 influenza, according to a new Deseret News/KSL-TV poll. [The Deseret Morning News (Salt Lake City)] Read More
Vermonters push for gay marriage
Don McIntyre said he never thought he'd be one of those telemarketing types who call people at dinner time with a string of questions, but there he was last month, dialing numbers, interrupting dinners. McIntyre is one of dozens of Vermonters who have pitched in to push for same-sex marriage in Maine. [Burlington Free Press] Read More
Lund Center brings families together
In 120 years, the Lund Family Center in Burlington has helped families adopt 8,600 kids. [Burlington Free Press] Read More
With highest rate of cases, Navy sees HIV infections rise
PORTSMOUTH, Va. -- The good news: The virus that causes AIDS is more treatable than ever -- and with treatment, individuals infected with HIV can live into old age. The bad news: The Navy's HIV infection rate has been rising for a decade and is significantly higher than any other military branch. [The Virginian-Pilot (Norfolk)] Read More
Welcome to work, governor. Time to slash.
HAMPTON ROADS, Va. -- The new governor elected Tuesday will be brimming with ideas on how to move Virginia forward, but one of his first jobs will likely be proposing deep cuts in state spending to deal with a budget shortfall of at least $1 billion. [The Virginian-Pilot (Norfolk)] Read More
Tax amnesty brings in $5M, and counting, for Virginia
Almost halfway through its tax-amnesty program, Virginia's Department of Taxation said it has collected about 12 percent of its $48 million goal. [The Virginian-Pilot (Norfolk)] Read More
Candidates hold last-minute rallies across Hampton Roads
HAMPTON ROADS, Va. -- Both Creigh Deeds and Bob McDonnell were in Hampton Roads Sunday to stage last-minute campaign appearances. With two days until the election, the candidates urged supporters to keep up their efforts. [The Virginian-Pilot (Norfolk)] Read More
Va. Gov. candidates ply voters in race's last days
Republican Bob McDonnell and Democrat R. Creigh Deeds barnstormed church services Sunday morning before rousing partisan crowds in their last blitz before Tuesday's governor's election. [The Washington Post] Read More
Off-year races may provide insight
WASHINGTON — One year after the election of President Obama, a handful of off-year political contests — including governors' races in New Jersey and Virginia and a Congressional race in upstate New York — offer some clues about how Americans are viewing Mr. Obama, as well as an early measure of the landscape for next year's midterm elections. [The New York Times] Read More
GOP has one eye on Va. campaign, one on the future
RICHMOND, Va. -- On Monday, it was former Arkansas governor Mike Huckabee. On Wednesday, it was former Massachusetts governor Mitt Romney and former New York mayor Rudolph W. Giuliani. And Saturday, it'll be Mississippi Gov. Haley Barbour. [The Washington Post] Read More
Forecast bad for Virginia apple orchards
Virginia's apple farmers are tasting the start of a rotten year. [The Roanoke Times] Read More
Democrats strive to hold governor posts in two states
NEWARK, N.J. — President Obama swept into New Jersey on Sunday, pleading with his supporters to summon up the enthusiasm they poured into his election last November and deliver a victory for Gov. Jon S. Corzine. [The New York Times] Read More
In Tuesday's contests, Steele sees a vote on his leadership
As they campaigned together across Virginia on Thursday and Friday, Republican National Committee Chairman Michael S. Steele praised Robert F. McDonnell, the state's GOP gubernatorial candidate, as an innovative leader. [The Washington Post] Read More
Wash. stimulus update shows more than $1.4B spent
More than $1.4 billion in federal stimulus money has been spent in Washington state, and the influx of cash has helped pay for tens of thousands of jobs, officials said Friday. [The Olympian] Read More
State expects new supply of Tamiflu for children soon
The state is still awaiting more H1N1 vaccine, but it soon will receive additional supplies of antiviral medications from national stockpiles to help children fight flu symptoms. [The Olympian] Read More
In eastern Washington, big plans for solar power
CLE ELUM, Wash. -- Coal -- one of the dirtiest sources of energy around -- was once king in this Upper Kittitas County town. Now the vision is cleaner and greener because of a massive solar installation proposed for 580 acres of logged timberland about four miles northeast of the city limits. [The Seattle Times] Read More
Referendum would extend protections to gay couples
SEATTLE — Referendum 71, a proposal to extend more legal protections to domestic partners in Washington State, has been nicknamed "everything but marriage." But its opponents say even that is an understatement. [The New York Times] Read More
Privacy looms over gay rights vote
SEATTLE — At a time when voters in many states are using petitions to qualify ballot measures on issues from gay rights to property rights, a legal dispute over the identity of 138,000 petition signers here is raising new questions about privacy, free speech and elections in the Internet age. [The New York Times] Read More
State's jobless seek support
The Senate is expected to act this week on extending the benefits for 14 weeks, with an additional six weeks for states with unemployment rates above 8.5 percent. [The Olympian] Read More
New indoor display rules set for Capitol Campus
New permanent rules formally signed Friday at the Capitol will bar religious displays and nongovernment displays inside Capitol Campus buildings. [The Olympian] Read More
Air Force tanker bidding favors Boeing, rival says
WASHINGTON -- A European aerospace company and its American partner say the Air Force is stacking the odds against them and favoring The Boeing Co. as it prepares to seek bids on a $35 billion contract to start replacing the nation's fleet of aging aerial refueling tankers. [The Olympian] Read More
Job stimulus report suffers from fuzzy math
New numbers released by the federal government Friday estimate that the federal stimulus package has helped create or save 34,500 total jobs in Washington, making it the state with the third-largest reported number of stimulus jobs, behind California and New York. [The Olympian] Read More
Washington vote has some parallels with Oregon issues
Our neighbors to the north will be voting Tuesday on a couple of issues worth noting because they parallel past issues in Oregon. [Statesman Journal (Salem)] Read More
Despite rhetoric in Vancouver mayor's race, decisions on tolls for I-5 lie elsewhere
In Washington, the Legislature and the Washington Transportation Commission hold all authority over bridge tolls. In Oregon, it's the Oregon Transportation Commission. [The Oregonian (Portland)] Read More
Study finds west is best for sleep
If you're feeling well rested this morning, it might be because you live out West. [Casper Star-Tribune] Read More
State ballots tackle controversial issues Tuesday
Voters in six states will decide Tuesday on a range of hot-button issues, from same-sex marriage and medical marijuana laws to borrowing funds for open space. [USA Today] Read More
How the Boeing deal was done
A week before North Charleston landed a new Boeing jet assembly line, U.S. Sen. Lindsey Graham thought South Carolina had lost the deal. [The State (Columbia)] Read More
Bringing Boeing to S.C. -- The art of the deal
Boeing had considered locating its first 787 Dreamliner assembly line on that chunk of property near Charleston International Airport in 2003. Unable to woo the aerospace giant from its home near Seattle at that time, state business leaders immediately looked toward a second chance. [The Post and Courier (Charleston)] Read More
State hopes to publish veterans' biographies
They live on through names engraved in granite, but a memorial dedicated to the West Virginia men and women who died in military service during major 20th Century wars reveals nothing of their personal stories. [Charleston Daily Mail] Read More
Manchin gets involved with swine flu efforts
Gov. Joe Manchin is getting involved with the fight against swine flu. Manchin is due to brief the media about H1N1 with state Chief Health Officer Dr. Cathy Slemp on Monday morning at the Capitol. [Charleston Gazette] Read More
W.Va. stimulus spending credited for 2,400 jobs
More than 2,400 jobs have been saved or created in West Virginia because of federal stimulus funding, according to those who have been spending the money. [Charleston Daily Mail] Read More
W.Va. justice slams DHHR's ability to protect kids
For the second time this year, a West Virginia Supreme Court justice has blasted the Department of Health and Human Resources by suggesting the agency has systemic problems that need rapid correction. [Charleston Gazette] Read More
Former TV anchor could run for judgeship
Kathy A. Brown, a Charleston lawyer and former WSAZ-TV news anchor, may run for the open seat on the Kanawha County Circuit Court, whether Gov. Joe Manchin appoints her to fill that vacancy or not. [Charleston Gazette] Read More
Democrats confident, despite storm clouds
Republican leaders predict these factors will lead them to victory in 2010, but Democratic leaders speaking at Saturday's Jefferson-Jackson Day Dinner said they remain confident. [Charleston Gazette] Read More
Drunken driving, education issues face Legislature
Toughening the state's drunken driving laws and passing education reforms to help Wisconsin qualify for federal stimulus money are just two of the many issues facing lawmakers in their final week in session. [Wisconsin State Journal (Madison)] Read More
Expanded health coverage won't include companies that self-insure
The expansion of health coverage for young adults under family plans in Wisconsin potentially will change the insurance picture for many state residents, but far from all. [Milwaukee Journal Sentinel] Read More
Bill would get police access to Wis. driver photos
The state Assembly is considering a bill that would allow police electronic access to Wisconsin drivers' license photographs. [Wisconsin State Journal (Madison)] Read More
Wis. highway fatalities down 11 percent so far
With two months left in the year, Wisconsin continues its trend of fewer people being killed in highway crashes. [The Capital Times (Madison)] Read More
Wis. officials consider waste-to-energy project
State environmental officials are considering plans for a new waste-to-energy project. [Wisconsin State Journal (Madison)] Read More
Wis. Corrections Dept. defends vaccine for inmates
Responding to a state lawmaker's complaints about inmates receiving swine-flu vaccine while other citizens wait, Wisconsin Department of Corrections officials said most of the vaccine was going to staff, not inmates. [Wisconsin State Journal (Madison)] Read More
Illinois parental notification law goes into effect Tuesday
Physicians in Illinois this week must begin notifying a parent or guardian when a girl 17 or younger seeks an abortion -- a rule abortion opponents long have sought, but which critics say could keep minors from seeking safe procedures. [Chicago Tribune] Read More
Study finds west is best for sleep
If you're feeling well rested this morning, it might be because you live out West. [Casper Star-Tribune] Read More
Dead people said to haunt Wyoming's voter rolls
Nearly 8,000 dead people are still registered as voters. And another 45,000 people who have moved out of the district where they are registered also are on the rolls. [Wyoming Tribune-Eagle (Cheyenne)] Read More
Hathaway dollars won't go as far
The Hathaway Scholarship Fund dollars won't stretch as far as they do now if the University of Wyoming Board of Trustees approves a tuition increase, key legislators say. [Casper Star-Tribune] Read More
Study finds west is best for sleep
If you're feeling well rested this morning, it might be because you live out West. [Casper Star-Tribune] Read More
Stimulus outlays by state, through Sept. 30
The Obama administration said that the U.S's fiscal stimulus program, with $159 billion in outlays through Sept. 30, has helped create or save around 640,000 jobs. Below, see how the money spent so far has been distributed state by state, and the number of jobs the government says have been created. [The Wall Street Journal] Read More
Emerging trends will change business
If the morning's coffee didn't get folks going early Friday at the FSU Real Estate Trends & Networking Conference, then John Doggett's assessment of emerging global conditions probably did. Maybe it was more like a splash of cold water in the face. [Tallahassee Democrat] Read More
State death taxes are the latest worry
With the federal estate tax disappearing for most people, state death taxes have emerged as a surprise new worry. [The Wall Street Journal] Read More
Gay marriage to go before Maine voters
In a referendum that is being closely watched across the country and has drawn millions in out-of-state dollars, Maine voters will decide tomorrow whether to repeal a state law that would allow same-sex couples to marry. [Concord Monitor] Read More
States likely to shape health reform
The debate over whether to let states opt out of any government-run health insurance plan overlooks a key facet of the health-care measures being assembled in Congress: When Washington is done, the shape of any new health-care system is likely to be finalized in Lansing and Boise and Baton Rouge. [The Washington Post] Read More
With highest rate of cases, Navy sees HIV infections rise
PORTSMOUTH, Va. -- The good news: The virus that causes AIDS is more treatable than ever -- and with treatment, individuals infected with HIV can live into old age. The bad news: The Navy's HIV infection rate has been rising for a decade and is significantly higher than any other military branch. [The Virginian-Pilot (Norfolk)] Read More
State ballots tackle controversial issues Tuesday
Voters in six states will decide Tuesday on a range of hot-button issues, from same-sex marriage and medical marijuana laws to borrowing funds for open space. [USA Today] Read More
Stimulus choices draw fire
U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan wrote governors a letter last April explaining the purpose of $48.6 billion in federal stimulus money meant to stabilize public education during the recession. [The Honolulu Advertiser] Read More
AP analysis -- Hardest-hit areas recovering slowly
Michigan was identified as the second most affected state, with four counties in southeast Michigan among the 20 worst in the nation. [The Detroit News] Read More
Ground beef recall linked to illness in Maine
PORTLAND, Maine -- A New York-based manufacturer is recalling about 456,00 pounds of ground beef products after people become ill in Maine, Connecticut and Massachusetts, according to the federal Food Safety and Inspection Service. [Portland Press Herald] Read More
Off-year races may provide insight
WASHINGTON — One year after the election of President Obama, a handful of off-year political contests — including governors' races in New Jersey and Virginia and a Congressional race in upstate New York — offer some clues about how Americans are viewing Mr. Obama, as well as an early measure of the landscape for next year's midterm elections. [The New York Times] Read More
Maine marriage law has nation engaged
Kansas crop farmer Terry Lawrence first read about Maine's ballot box showdown over gay marriage from online news sites catering to conservative Christians. [Bangor Daily News] Read More
Democrats strive to hold governor posts in two states
NEWARK, N.J. — President Obama swept into New Jersey on Sunday, pleading with his supporters to summon up the enthusiasm they poured into his election last November and deliver a victory for Gov. Jon S. Corzine. [The New York Times] Read More
Durbin calls for fast-track funds for highway repairs
WASHINGTON -- Sen. Dick Durbin is urging increased federal spending on highway repairs as early as next year. [Daily Herald (Arlington Heights)] Read More
On Halloween, many sex offenders must post 'No Candy Here' signs
ATLANTA -- A growing number of convicted sex offenders around the US will spend this weekend with a Halloween version of a scarlet letter hanging on their front porches. [The Christian Science Monitor] Read More
Schools are where stimulus saved jobs, new data show
The best symbol of the $787 billion federal stimulus program turns out not to be a construction worker in a hard hat, but rather a classroom teacher saved from a layoff. [The New York Times] Read More
In Tuesday's contests, Steele sees a vote on his leadership
As they campaigned together across Virginia on Thursday and Friday, Republican National Committee Chairman Michael S. Steele praised Robert F. McDonnell, the state's GOP gubernatorial candidate, as an innovative leader. [The Washington Post] Read More
A bid to cut emissions looks away from coal
WASHINGTON — As Congress debates legislation to slow global warming by limiting emissions, engineers are tinkering with ways to capture and store carbon dioxide, the leading heat-trapping gas. [The New York Times] Read More |
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