Delaware offering assistance to Valero employees AP (November 23, 2009) DELAWARE CITY, Del. (AP) - State officials are helping people who are losing their jobs at the Delaware City Valero plant get information about training for new jobs and other benefits available to them.
Program to help truckers attracts drug smugglers AP (November 23, 2009) LAREDO, Texas (AP) - A U.S. program that offers trusted trucking companies speedy passage across American borders has begun attracting just the sort of customers who place a premium on avoiding inspections: Mexican drug smugglers.
Ohio, other states giving venison donations a lift AP (November 23, 2009) CINCINNATI (AP) - Hunters are donating more venison to strapped food banks as Ohio and other states offer financial aid aimed at managing high deer populations. It's a much-needed boost for pantries struggling to meet rising demand.
Kentucky invests $1.2 million in farm projects AP (November 23, 2009) FRANKFORT, Ky. (AP) - Farmers in several counties will be able to tap into more than $1.2 million set aside for agricultural investments.
Hawaii lawmakers to examine use of stimulus money AP (November 23, 2009) HONOLULU (AP) - A joint panel of the Hawaii Legislature will examine the use of federal economic stimulus money in the state departments of health and human services.
NM wants company to take responsibility for cavern AP (November 23, 2009) ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) - The state of New Mexico has spent more than a half-million dollars investigating and monitoring a giant cavern a few hundred feet beneath the ground in southeastern New Mexico.
Incinerator plans on hold after protests in China AP (November 23, 2009) GUANGZHOU, China (AP) - Hundreds of residents protested Monday against the planned construction of a trash incinerator in the southern boomtown city of Guangzhou, a news report said.
Past CNN head, Bush aide named to broadcast board AP (November 20, 2009) WASHINGTON (AP) - President Barack Obama has nominated a former press secretary to President George W. Bush and a past chairman of CNN to the Broadcasting Board of Governors. The independent agency oversees nonmilitary international broadcasts sponsored by the federal government, including Voice of America.
Wyoming challenges Yellowstone snowmobile rules AP (November 20, 2009) CHEYENNE, Wyo. (AP) - The state of Wyoming has filed a new federal lawsuit seeking to block the National Park Service from restricting snowmobile numbers in Yellowstone National Park.
SF health care a model during national debate AP (November 20, 2009) SAN FRANCISCO (AP) - This city did not wait for Washington's health care overhaul. Most uninsured adults here are already reaping the benefits of a government-run health care program - seeing doctors, filling prescriptions, and getting surgeries they could not otherwise afford.
W.Va. municipal pension relief plan wins passage AP (November 20, 2009) CHARLESTON, W.Va. (AP) - Some of West Virginia's largest cities can soon freeze and gradually pay down their daunting pension funding shortfalls, after the House of Delegates sent Gov. Joe Manchin his special session relief proposal Thursday.
Northrop Grumman gets contract with National Guard AP (November 20, 2009) HERNDON, Va. (AP) - Security company Northrop Grumman Corp. said Friday it received a training contract with the U.S. National Guard valued at $50 million over five years.
GAO: Fraud in gov't contracts for disabled vets AP (November 19, 2009) WASHINGTON (AP) - Companies fraudulently collected at least $100 million in federal contracts from a $4 billion government program designated for disabled military veterans who run small businesses, congressional investigators charge.
FAA computer problem causes widespread delays AP (November 19, 2009) ATLANTA (AP) - A problem with the FAA system that collects airlines' flight plans caused widespread flight cancellations and delays nationwide Thursday.
Obama: Job creation not goal of Dec. 3 jobs forum AP (November 18, 2009) BEIJING (AP) - President Barack Obama says creating jobs isn't the goal of a coming White House forum on jobs and economic growth.
NY Senate lawyer says he handled Bruno ethics AP (November 18, 2009) ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) - A state Senate lawyer testified that he and two other staff attorneys handled the financial disclosure forms that prosecutors are trying to use against former New York Senate leader Joseph Bruno in his federal corruption trial.
Medtronic gets FDA warning on heart implant unit AP (November 18, 2009) MINNEAPOLIS (AP) - Medtronic says it is responding to a warning letter it received from the Food and Drug Administration about procedures at the Minnesota headquarters of its heart implants division.
House lawmakers push ban on peer-to-peer software AP (November 18, 2009) WASHINGTON (AP) - Stung by an embarrassing electronic leak last month revealing ethics investigations into dozens of lawmakers, Congress moved Tuesday to prohibit federal employees from using the same type of Internet file-sharing software blamed for the disclosure.
AP Poll: Gov't health plan divides public AP (November 18, 2009) WASHINGTON (AP) - An Associated Press poll finds more people support creation of a new government-run health insurance plan to compete with the private insurance market.
5 indicted in scam targeting agencies in 4 states AP (November 18, 2009) CHARLESTON, W.Va. (AP) - A federal grand jury in West Virginia has linked five more people to an international scam that allegedly tricked government agencies in several states into paying at least $3.3 million to bogus companies with names that sounded like legitimate firms.
Colo. medical pot suppliers will have to pay taxes AP (November 18, 2009) DENVER (AP) - Colorado is gearing up to officially tax and regulate medical marijuana dispensaries, a move lawmakers say amounts to legal recognition of a growing industry.
More than $98 billion in improper gov't payments AP (November 18, 2009) WASHINGTON (AP) - More than $98 billion in taxpayer dollars spent by government agencies was wasted, much of it on questionable claims for tax credits and Medicare benefits, representing an increase of $26 billion from the previous year.
SPIN METER: Feds buy green cars, auction rejects AP (November 18, 2009) (AP) - If you missed out on Washington's cash incentive program to trade in your old clunker, Uncle Sam still has a deal for you: The government will sell you rejects from its own fleet, even as it makes dealers scrap all those old cars that were collected from the public.
Arkansas lottery to sell Mega Millions tickets AP (November 18, 2009) LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (AP) - The Arkansas Lottery Commission agreed Tuesday to sell Mega Millions tickets next year, making multistate jackpots available to lottery participants four nights a week instead of two.
IRS settles with 14,700 over foreign accounts AP (November 17, 2009) MIAMI (AP) - The Internal Revenue Service says more than 14,700 U.S. taxpayers with offshore accounts in 70 foreign countries have come forward to settle their tax debts.
Obama to visit Pennsylvania after jobs forum AP (November 17, 2009) WASHINGTON (AP) - President Barack Obama will travel to Pennsylvania and other states next month after hosting a White House forum on creating jobs.
Geithner: must rebalance global economic growth AP (November 17, 2009) WASHINGTON (AP) - Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner said Tuesday the global economy is moving toward a recovery but countries can't rely on U.S. consumers to serve as the engine of worldwide growth.
Swiss unveil criteria for UBS tax disclosure to US AP (November 17, 2009) BERN, Switzerland (AP) - American clients who hid more than 1 million Swiss francs in undeclared bank accounts with UBS AG between 2001 and 2008 could have their details turned over to the U.S. government, Swiss officials said Tuesday.
Feds: Kuwaiti company conspired to defraud US AP (November 17, 2009) ATLANTA (AP) - The chief food supplier for the U.S. military in Kuwait and Iraq inflated prices and defrauded the U.S. government for multibillion-dollar contracts to feed American troops, federal prosecutors said Monday.
Review of missed signs will span entire Pentagon AP (November 17, 2009) WASHINGTON (AP) - The Defense Department will launch a broad investigation in light of the Fort Hood shootings that looks at how all the military services keep a watch on potential problems in their ranks.
Business foes of health care revamp ramp up effort AP (November 17, 2009) WASHINGTON (AP) - Business foes of health care overhaul legislation are outspending supporters at a rate of 2-to-1 for TV ads as they grow increasingly nervous over a final bill.
Army suicides to top 2008, but progress reported AP (November 17, 2009) WASHINGTON (AP) - Soldier suicides this year are almost sure to top last year's grim totals, but a recent decline in the pace of such incidents could mean the Army is starting to make progress in stemming them, officials said Tuesday.
Pro-Cuba embargo money flows to lawmakers AP (November 16, 2009) MIAMI (AP) - Supporters of tough U.S. sanctions against the Cuban government have given more than $10 million to congressional campaigns over the last seven years, according to a study released late Sunday night by a group supporting campaign finance reform.
Advice to Congress: Be clear, fair on health care AP (November 16, 2009) (AP) - What would you tell lawmakers about overhauling health care? People participating in discussion groups related to an Associated Press poll of Americans shared the messages they would deliver.
ND state senator wants insurance premium tax cut AP (November 16, 2009) BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) - A Bismarck state senator says North Dakota's insurance premium tax on nonprofit health insurance companies should be abolished.
Agriculture officials to survey Mo. farmers AP (November 16, 2009) JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) - Agriculture officials will be surveying farmers to determine if expected yields met expectations this year.
Lost war bonds not easy to find AP (November 16, 2009) HELENA, Mont. (AP) - Holders of lost savings bonds dating back to World War II say its not nearly as easy to track down the lost money as the U.S. Treasury Department claims in an ongoing lawsuit.
Maryland gets 2 health-care grants worth $5M AP (November 16, 2009) LA PLATA, Md. (AP) - Southern Maryland is getting nearly $5 million in federal stimulus money for health-care projects.
Henderson: GM to begin repaying aid by year-end AP (November 16, 2009) WASHINGTON (AP) - General Motors Co. will begin paying back $6.7 billion in U.S. government loans by the end of 2009 and could pay off that full amount as early as 2010, five years ahead of schedule, CEO Fritz Henderson said Monday.
RNC health insurance plan covers abortions AP (November 13, 2009) WASHINGTON (AP) - The Republican National Committee's health insurance plan covers elective abortions for its employees, an option Republicans strongly oppose in health overhaul legislation that Democrats are trying to push through Congress.
Feds ignored Medicare scam warnings for years AP (November 13, 2009) MIAMI (AP) - For three years, the federal agency in charge of preventing Medicare fraud repeatedly ignored internal watchdog warnings about swindlers stealing millions of dollars by scamming several programs, documents show.
Navistar gets $48.6 million Army order for trucks AP (November 13, 2009) WASHINGTON (AP) - Navistar International Corp. recently received a $48.6 million contract from the Army for 181 recovery trucks, the Pentagon said late Thursday.
FDA finds bits of steel, rubber in Genzyme drugs AP (November 13, 2009) WASHINGTON (AP) - Federal health regulators have found tiny particles of trash in drugs made by Genzyme, the second time this year the biotechnology company has been cited for contamination issues.
FAA: Procedures reinforced for alerting military AP (November 13, 2009) WASHINGTON (AP) - Federal Aviation Administration officials said Friday they are strengthening procedures for alerting the military when air traffic controllers lose contact with planes.
Deficit doubles for government pension insurer AP (November 13, 2009) WASHINGTON (AP) - The government-chartered company that insures the pensions of one in seven Americans said Friday that its deficit this year nearly doubled to $22 billion.
AP sources: Probers eye census worker's insurance AP (November 13, 2009) WASHINGTON (AP) - Investigators trying to solve the mystery of a census taker found hanging from a tree with the word "fed" scrawled on his chest are examining whether he manipulated the scene in order to conceal a suicide and make a life insurance claim possible for his son, law enforcement officials told The Associat
Libby official: EPA must pay for lost buildings AP (November 13, 2009) BILLINGS, Mont. (AP) - A city councilman in Libby said Thursday that the Environmental Protection Agency owes the asbestos-plagued Superfund community $2 million for the demolition of several contaminated buildings.
FDA backs off oyster ban after strong criticism AP (November 13, 2009) WASHINGTON (AP) - The Obama administration is backing off a plan to ban raw oysters from the Gulf of Mexico during warm weather.
Federal judge sues impeachment panel AP (November 13, 2009) WASHINGTON (AP) - A Louisiana federal judge sued a House impeachment task force Friday, contending the panel is making the case for his ouster by using testimony he gave under a promise of immunity.
Pelosi: Health bill would limit abortion access AP (November 13, 2009) CAMBRIDGE, Mass. (AP) - Speaker Nancy Pelosi is agreeing with critics who say an amendment included in the health care bill passed by the House would additionally limit access to abortion.
Bank of Korea keeps key rate at record low AP (November 12, 2009) SEOUL, South Korea (AP) - South Korea's central bank left its key interest rate at a record low for the ninth straight month Thursday, pledging to maintain low borrowing rates to help extend a recovery in Asia's fourth-largest economy.
BLM now collecting higher drilling application fee AP (November 12, 2009) CHEYENNE, Wyo. (AP) - A huge increase in the application fee for oil and gas companies to drill on federal land is unfair and won't speed up review of drilling permits, industry officials said Wednesday.
Ahead of the Bell: Federal Budget AP (November 12, 2009) WASHINGTON (AP) - The federal deficit is expected to hit $150 billion for the first month in the new budget year, headed toward another $1 trillion-plus tide of red ink. Economists worry such deficits could push up interest rates, adding a further drag on the fragile economic recovery.
Obama's pay czar concerned firms could lose talent AP (November 12, 2009) WASHINGTON (AP) - The Obama administration's pay czar says he is "very concerned" about scaring away top talent at seven firms that took the biggest bailouts.
Va. firm wins $27 million Navy contract AP (November 11, 2009) FAIRFAX, Va. (AP) - A Fairfax County company has won a nearly $27 million contract to provide engineering and technical support for the U.S. Navy's navigation systems in the United States and abroad.
Suit accusing TSA of wrongful detention dropped AP (November 11, 2009) ST. LOUIS (AP) - The American Civil Liberties Union has dropped a lawsuit against the Transportation Security Administration that claimed a man was wrongly detained the St. Louis airport because he was carrying about $4,700 in cash.
Utah audit: Ban state workers from double-dipping AP (November 11, 2009) SALT LAKE CITY (AP) - Retired state employees who return to government work are costing Utah hundreds of millions of dollars in benefits at a time the state retirement system is facing a $6.5 billion shortfall, a legislative audit released Wednesday said.
Restaurant groups: Alcohol at NY casino is illegal AP (November 11, 2009) UTICA, N.Y. (AP) - Three restaurant-owner associations have sued the New York state liquor board, claiming it illegally granted alcohol catering permits for the Indian-owned Turning Stone Casino and Resort.
Lawmakers oppose Michigan anti-mining ballot plan AP (November 11, 2009) LANSING, Mich. (AP) - A bipartisan group of state lawmakers representing Michigan's Upper Peninsula is criticizing a possible ballot proposal that would ban some types of mining.
Mass. candidate favors hike in capital gains tax AP (November 11, 2009) BOSTON (AP) - Massachusetts Democratic Senate candidate and multimillionaire Stephen Pagliuca said Wednesday the federal capital gains tax should be raised from 15 percent to 20 percent, adding that the rich should pay an equitable share of the country's bills.
Researcher: `Clunkers' program boosted auto sales AP (November 11, 2009) MUNCIE, Ind. (AP) - A Ball State University researcher who analyzed the federal government's Cash for Clunkers program says it fueled a spike in auto sales over the summer.
Geithner encouraged by moves in Japan, China AP (November 11, 2009) TOKYO (AP) - Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner said Wednesday he's encouraged by efforts in Japan and China to spur domestic demand instead of relying so heavily on American consumers - a shift that will contribute to more stable global growth.
Report: 10 states face looming budget disasters AP (November 11, 2009) SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) - California's ongoing fiscal crisis has attracted national attention, but a study warns that nine other states are barreling toward similar economic disaster.
Ariz. narrows property list for budget financing AP (November 11, 2009) PHOENIX (AP) - All or parts of four prison complexes are among a dozen state properties on a shortened list of facilities being proposed for sale-leaseback refinancing to help balance Arizona's state budget.
Lawmakers protect Neb. farmers' checkoff dollars AP (November 11, 2009) LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Complaints from Nebraska farmers and agriculture groups about using checkoff dollars to help balance the state budget appear to have worked.
Fed officials warn weak recovery won't spur jobs AP (November 10, 2009) WASHINGTON (AP) - Unemployment likely will remain high for the next several years because the economic recovery won't be strong enough to spur robust hiring, Federal Reserve officials warned Tuesday.
Calif. governor pushes $11B water bond plan, dams AP (November 10, 2009) FRIANT, Calif (AP) - Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger has signed a far-reaching water bond intended to rebuild California's crumbling water system and fund new dams to save up the precious resource for dry years.
Feds seize assets of Fla. lawyer in Ponzi probe AP (November 10, 2009) FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (AP) - Federal prosecutors accused a high-profile South Florida attorney of concocting a Ponzi scheme that lured millions of dollars from investors with promises of big payoffs from legal settlements that never existed, according to court documents filed Monday.
Mo. AG sues businesses over wastewater in lake AP (November 10, 2009) JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) - A restaurant and two condominium developments near the Lake of the Ozarks allowed sewage to be dumped into the popular central Missouri lake, state Attorney General Chris Koster claims in two lawsuits filed Monday.
Housing plan reaches 1 in 5 borrowers AP (November 10, 2009) WASHINGTON (AP) - After a slow start, the Obama administration's mortgage relief program has reached one in five eligible homeowners, a government report says.
Treasury: China must boost domestic demand AP (November 10, 2009) WASHINGTON (AP) - China must continue to work to boost domestic demand to avoid global imbalances in the flows of trade and investments between nations, a senior U.S. Treasury official said Tuesday.
Medical association backs health system reform AP (November 10, 2009) HOUSTON (AP) - The American Medical Association on Monday rebuffed dissident members and voted to stick with support for ongoing health reform efforts, while reiterating wariness over proposals that threaten doctors' pocketbooks and independence.
D.C. sniper mastermind set to be executed Tuesday AP (November 10, 2009) RICHMOND, Va. (AP) - Unless Virginia Gov. Tim Kaine steps in, sniper mastermind John Allen Muhammad will be executed Tuesday for the attacks that terrorized the nation's capital region for three weeks in 2002.
Dodd circulates financial overhaul bill AP (November 10, 2009) WASHINGTON (AP) - Senate Banking Committee Chairman Christopher Dodd is circulating legislation that would give the government sweeping new powers to prevent another economic collapse, including the ability to dismantle failing institutions and increased oversight of lenders to consumers.
Obama confronts an Asia reshaped by China's rise AP (November 09, 2009) BEIJING (AP) - Days after coming to power in September, Japan's new prime minister broached forming a new East Asian trading bloc with rival China - one that would exclude the United States.
Lawmaker wants probe of E. coli and school lunches AP (November 09, 2009) WASHINGTON (AP) - The chairman of the House Education and Labor Committee wants an investigation into the risk of deadly E. coli getting into school lunches.
Details on health care bills in House, Senate AP (November 06, 2009) WASHINGTON (AP) - House Democratic leaders are offering a $1.2 trillion, 10-year health overhaul bill that expands coverage to millions of Americans. House Republicans have unveiled their alternative, after months of criticizing the Democrats' approach.
Obama to sign extension of jobless benefits AP (November 06, 2009) WASHINGTON (AP) - President Barack Obama is set to sign a bill extending jobless benefits 20 weeks and prolonging the $8,000 homebuyer tax credit.
House Dems push for votes on health bill AP (November 06, 2009) WASHINGTON (AP) - House Democrats are scrambling to secure enough support to pass President Barack Obama's historic health overhaul initiative, working to soothe last-minute concerns from rank-and-file Democrats ahead of a make-or-break vote.
House Dems in final push on health care AP (November 05, 2009) WASHINGTON (AP) - The House is steaming toward a historic vote on President Barack Obama's remake of the U.S. health care system, with Democratic leaders increasingly confident and the powerful seniors' lobby AARP about to get on board.
Lax laws allow US companies to be used for crimes AP (November 05, 2009) WASHINGTON (AP) - Lax state laws allow arms traffickers, drug kingpins and money launderers to use U.S. companies to hide their illicit activities from investigators, government officials said Thursday.
European, British central banks leave rates alone AP (November 05, 2009) FRANKFURT (AP) - The European Central Bank and the Bank of England kept interest rates at record lows Thursday as their economies struggle to emerge from recession.
Senator: No stimulus money for US-China wind farm AP (November 05, 2009) WASHINGTON (AP) - A Democratic senator is calling on the Obama administration to reject an expected request for economic stimulus money for a $1.5 billion West Texas wind energy project.
Army: 12 die in dual shootings at Fort Hood, Texas AP (November 05, 2009) FORT HOOD, Texas (AP) - The U.S. Army says 12 people have been killed and 31 wounded in a shooting rampage on the Fort Hood Army base in Texas. Lt. Gen Bob Cone said at a news conference that one shooter has been killed and two suspects were apprehended on Thu
Democrats' plan to help 'uninsurables' questioned AP (November 05, 2009) WASHINGTON (AP) - You're afraid your cancer is back, and a health insurance company just turned you down. Under the health care bills in Congress, you could apply for coverage through a new high-risk pool that President Barack Obama promises would immediately start serving patients with pre-existing medical problems. Wait a second. Read the fine print. You may have to be uni
Anti-abortion activists arrested at Pelosi's suite AP (November 05, 2009) WASHINGTON (AP) - U.S. Capitol Police have arrested a dozen anti-abortion activists outside House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's office after a massive protest against the Democrats' health care bill.
Congress giving homebuyers a big new tax break AP (November 05, 2009) WASHINGTON (AP) - Missed out on Cash for Clunkers? Congress has another deal for you: Buy a home before May 1 and collect up to $6,500 from the government. If you're a first-time homebuyer, get up to $8,000.
'Clunker' data show pickup-for-pickup trades AP (November 05, 2009) WASHINGTON (AP) - Billed as a way for the government to put more fuel-efficient vehicles on highways, the popular $3 billion Cash for Clunkers program mostly involved swaps of old Ford or Chevrolet pickups for new ones that got only marginally better gas mileage, according to an analysis of new federal data by The Associated Press.
AP source: Fort Hood shooting suspect Army major AP (November 05, 2009) WASHINGTON (AP) - Officials say a shooting suspect at Fort Hood has been identified as Maj. Malik Nadal Hasan, who they say was an Army mental health professional.
Congress set to clear aid to jobless, homebuyers AP (November 05, 2009) WASHINGTON (AP) - Congress is one vote away from sending the president legislation that continues aid to more than a million jobless people and extends tax breaks to hundreds of thousands of prospective homebuyers and struggling businesses.
Rail worker killed in Philly on 3rd day of strike AP (November 05, 2009) PHILADELPHIA (AP) - A packed commuter train struck and killed a rail worker during the morning rush Thursday, disrupting service for three hours and stranding hundreds of riders on a system already crippled by a transit strike.
Senate Democrats advance climate bill without GOP AP (November 05, 2009) WASHINGTON (AP) - Ignoring a Republican boycott, Senate Democrats pushed a precedent-setting climate bill through a key committee Thursday.
Detroit, Michigan watch as Ohio OKs Toledo casino AP (November 05, 2009) DETROIT (AP) - Ohio voters have given their blessing to the opening of casinos in Toledo and three other cities, and that has Michigan officials and gambling interests paying close attention.
Majority leader: House will pass health bill AP (November 05, 2009) WASHINGTON (AP) - Majority Leader Steny Hoyer predicts the House will pass historic health care overhaul legislation Saturday to extend coverage to tens of millions of uninsured Americans and ban insurance companies from turning people away.
EPA to impose standards on PVC plant emissions AP (November 05, 2009) NEW ORLEANS (AP) - The Environmental Protection Agency will set new nationwide emission standards for makers of polyvinyl chloride, commonly known as the plastic PVC, under a settlement with environmental groups announced Thursday.
Bank of England faces key stimulus decision AP (November 04, 2009) LONDON (AP) - The Bank of England's injection of 175 billion pounds ($289 billion) into the economy hasn't yet pulled Britain out of recession, and the central bank now faces a difficult decision on whether to raise the stakes.
Fed likely to keep key interest rate at record low AP (November 04, 2009) WASHINGTON (AP) - Faced with lurking dangers to the budding recovery, Federal Reserve policymakers are sure to leave a key interest rate at a record low to entice Americans to spend more and help the economic turnaround gain traction.
Treasury expects debt limit will be hit in Dec. AP (November 04, 2009) WASHINGTON (AP) - The Treasury Department now expects to hit the government's debt limit in December, two months later than its initial estimate, after scaling back an emergency loan program as the financial crisis abated.
San Francisco voters defeat sign district plan AP (November 04, 2009) SAN FRANCISCO (AP) - Voters have defeated a measure to allow advertising signs and billboards along a small area on one of San Francisco's major roadways.
Iowa AG: States must help protect consumers AP (November 04, 2009) DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) - Iowa Attorney General Tom Miller says the states should continue to have a role in protecting consumers from fraudulent practices.
Voters in struggling Ohio approve 4 urban casinos AP (November 04, 2009) COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) - Ohio voters hit hard by the economic downturn have approved casinos on the fifth try by gambling supporters in the past two decades.
STIMULUS WATCH: Salary raise counted as saved job AP (November 04, 2009) WASHINGTON (AP) - President Barack Obama's economic recovery program saved 935 jobs at the Southwest Georgia Community Action Council, an impressive success story for the stimulus plan. Trouble is, only 508 people work there.
California lawmakers approve $11B water overhaul AP (November 04, 2009) SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) - California lawmakers have passed an $11 billion overhaul of the state's antiquated water system, ending decades of debate over how to supply a soaring population while preserving the fragile environment.
House to accelerate credit card rules AP (November 04, 2009) WASHINGTON (AP) - House Democrats want tougher rules for credit card companies to go into effect by Dec. 1, accelerating by two months the enactment date of legislation previously passed by Congress.
Calif. lawmakers haggle over potential water fixes AP (November 03, 2009) SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) - Lawmakers kept haggling Tuesday in their effort to alleviate California's water woes, as the Legislature prepared to vote on a package of bills that appears to lack the support needed to pass.
Ore. treasurer: State's credit rating remains good AP (November 03, 2009) SALEM, Ore. (AP) - The Oregon treasurer's office says national credit rating firms are reporting that the state remains a safe credit risk at a time when many others are being warned about potential downgrades.
Dollar rises ahead of central bank announcements AP (November 03, 2009) NEW YORK (AP) - The dollar mostly rose Tuesday as major bank restructurings in Europe and worries over slow growth made the currency more attractive to investors seeking safety amid central bank meetings in the U.S. and Europe this week.
RI gov signs bill banning indoor prostitution AP (November 03, 2009) PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) - Rhode Island Gov. Don Carcieri has signed legislation closing a loophole that made indoor prostitution legal and allowed more than 30 suspected brothels to operate around the state.
Attorney: Texas lottery won't pay cheated winner AP (November 03, 2009) AUSTIN, Texas (AP) - An attorney for a man who lost out on a $1 million jackpot says the Texas Lottery Commission still considers the store clerk who allegedly stole the ticket to be the winner.
Lawmakers seek ban on laptops in airliner cockpits AP (November 03, 2009) WASHINGTON (AP) - Lawmakers are moving to ban the use of computer laptops and other personal electronic devices in airline cockpits to prevent another incident like the Northwest Airlines plane that overshot Minneapolis by 150 miles.
IMF sells gold to India's central bank AP (November 03, 2009) WASHINGTON (AP) - The International Monetary Fund has sold 200 metric tons of gold worth $6.7 billion to India's central bank as part of an effort to shore up IMF finances and increase low-cost lending to developing countries.
NC appellate judges reject public records lawsuit AP (November 03, 2009) RALEIGH, N.C. (AP) - The North Carolina Court of Appeals has sided with the state treasurer's office in a public records lawsuit that accused officials of withholding documents about the state's pension fund.
SD regulators to hold public hearing on pipeline AP (November 03, 2009) PIERRE, S.D. (AP) - The Public Utilities Commission gets comments from the public Tuesday evening in Pierre on the $920 million, 313-mile stretch of the Keystone XL pipeline that TransCanada Keystone plans to build across western and south central South Dakota.
United Airlines spent $510K lobbying gov't in 3Q AP (November 03, 2009) WASHINGTON (AP) - United Airlines spent $510,000 in the third quarter lobbying on legislation including the cap-and-trade bill that was taken up in the Senate this week, according to a recent disclosure form.
Funds dwindling to oversee Utah's hazardous waste AP (November 02, 2009) SALT LAKE CITY (AP) - Businesses that handle some of Utah's most dangerous materials are being inspected less often because of dwindling funds to pay for the work.
Obama: Private, public sectors must create jobs AP (November 02, 2009) WASHINGTON (AP) - President Barack Obama said Monday the public and private sectors must find more ways to create jobs to continue the nation's climb out of an economic recession.
Mass. considers clampdown on toxic substances AP (November 02, 2009) BOSTON (AP) - 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.
Health care plan hits rich with big tax increases AP (November 02, 2009) WASHINGTON (AP) - The typical family would be spared higher taxes from the House Democratic plan to overhaul health care, and their low-income neighbors could come out ahead.
Los Angeles County's rail car contract falls apart AP (November 02, 2009) LOS ANGELES (AP) - A deal to build 100 rail cars for Los Angeles County's transit system has fallen through, costing the region an estimated $368 million in economic activity and hundreds of jobs.
Tongass wars flare over Logjam timber sale AP (November 02, 2009) ANCHORAGE, Alaska (AP) - Conservation groups and the U.S. Forest Service have fought for decades over management of the country's largest national forest. The wrangling has gone on for so long it has a name: The Tongass Wars.
Flex spending accounts face hit in health overhaul AP (November 02, 2009) WASHINGTON (AP) - Those tax-free spending accounts that you and your co-workers use to help pay for dental work, insurance copayments or over-the-counter drugs face a hit under the health overhaul bills in Congress - unless a coalition that includes a powerful union, insurers and others can stop it.
WASHINGTON (AP) - Many communities hit hardest by job losses, those built around dying factories and mills, have been slowest to see relief from President Barack Obama's stimulus plan, underscoring how hard it is for Washington policymakers to cr
NFL's Goodell to testify on Vikings suspensions AP (October 30, 2009) WASHINGTON (AP) - NFL commissioner Roger Goodell is returning to Capitol Hill next week, this time to testify about the case of two professional football players whose suspensions for violating the league's anti-doping policy were blocked by the courts.
Mich. sued for cutting off adult dental benefits AP (October 30, 2009) LANSING, Mich. (AP) - A lawsuit has been filed on behalf of 400,000 adult Medicaid recipients whose dental benefits were eliminated by Michigan Gov. Jennifer Granholm to save money.
CDC: Swine flu kids' deaths jump to 114 AP (October 30, 2009) ATLANTA (AP) - Swine flu has caused at least 19 more children's deaths - the largest one-week increase since the pandemic started in April, health officials said Friday.
SC governor signs incentive package for Boeing AP (October 30, 2009) NORTH CHARLESTON, S.C. (AP) - A $750 million Boeing 787 assembly plant is expected to bring thousands of badly needed jobs to South Carolina's ailing economy and, officials hope, a closer look at the state by other industrial prospects.
Millions spent on small border stations justified AP (October 30, 2009) WASHINGTON (AP) - An internal Obama administration review supports its rationale for upgrading little-used border checkpoints rather than the busiest crossings.
EPA settles with Detroit co. over hazardous waste AP (October 30, 2009) DETROIT (AP) - Federal officials have reached an agreement with a Detroit company over alleged violations of hazardous waste regulations at two oil recycling operations.
US spy agencies' spending rises to $49.8 billion AP (October 30, 2009) WASHINGTON (AP) - U.S. spy agencies spent $49.8 billion in fiscal year 2009, $2 billion more than in 2008 and the second such multibillion-dollar increase in as many years.
White House Garden goes through second harvest AP (October 29, 2009) WASHINGTON (AP) - First lady Michelle Obama and several dozen children from Washington, D.C., schools have harvested the produce growing in the garden on the South Lawn of the White House.
Geithner: Legislation won't lead to more bailouts AP (October 29, 2009) WASHINGTON (AP) - Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner says the government's ability to dismantle mammoth financial institutions like Lehman Brothers and American International Group, when necessary, won't lead to future bailouts.
Obama to lay out plans to help small businesses AP (October 29, 2009) WASHINGTON (AP) - President Barack Obama speaks Thursday morning to small business leaders about the administration's plans to offer them assistance.
US official: Homemade bombs pose worldwide threat AP (October 29, 2009) WASHINGTON (AP) - The use of homemade bombs extends well beyond Afghanistan and Iraq, making the weapons a global problem that requires an international solution, a senior U.S. military official said Thursday.
Geithner says economy on the mend AP (October 29, 2009) WASHINGTON (AP) - Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner said he sees positive signs that the economy is recovering, although the recession remains "alive and acute" for families dealing with unemployment and facing home foreclosure.
Obama seeks new powers to dismantle nonbank firms AP (October 29, 2009) WASHINGTON (AP) - A year after Lehman Brothers collapsed, helping to trigger the worst financial crisis in seven decades, the Obama administration is pressing Congress for the power to dismantle other nonbank firms considered so large and influential that they could bring down the entire economy.
FAA: 2 jets were only about 82 feet apart at LAX AP (October 29, 2009) LOS ANGELES (AP) - The Federal Aviation Administration said Wednesday a runway incursion put a taxiing jet about 82 feet from a departing airliner - less than half the separation required by aviation rules.
Senator calls Okla. roads 'life threatening' AP (October 29, 2009) OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) - The poor state of Oklahoma's bridges and roads is "life threatening," and the state can't afford Congressional bickering that threatens to block federal aid for improvements, Oklahoma Sen. Jim Inhofe said Wednesday.
Military notified too late to launch fighter jets AP (October 29, 2009) WASHINGTON (AP) - The U.S. military would have launched fighter jets to track down an errant Northwest Airlines flight that overshot the Minneapolis airport if officials had been notified sooner, a top commander said Thursday as federal authorities defended the decision to revoke the licenses of the pilots involved.
Ohio senators curious about casino money AP (October 29, 2009) COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) - Some Ohio senators were curious Wednesday about the possibility of plugging the state's budget hole with money from casinos, should they be approved by voters next week.
Iowa gov to unveil plan for cutting state budget AP (October 28, 2009) DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) - Iowa Gov. Chet Culver is unveiling his plans for a 10 percent across-the board budget cut, slashing $565 million in spending and forcing hundreds of layoffs.
Treasury, GMAC in talks for 3rd round of US aid AP (October 28, 2009) NEW YORK (AP) - GMAC, the former lending arm of General Motors Co., is in talks with the Treasury Department for a third injection of taxpayer aid, a further sign of the U.S. government's entrenchment in the U.S. auto industry.
Neb. targets $335M for cuts in 2-year state budget AP (October 28, 2009) LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska lawmakers and Gov. Dave Heineman will have to slash $335 million from the two-year state budget during a special legislative session intended to deal with state government's worst fiscal crisis in recent memory.
Feds file suits over $562 million bogus tax claims AP (October 28, 2009) WASHINGTON (AP) - Federal authorities have filed lawsuits against seven people accused of promoting a bogus tax return scheme seeking a total of $562 million in refunds.
Sen. Murray asking Boeing, machinists to talk AP (October 28, 2009) WASHINGTON (AP) - Sen. Patty Murray's office says she's trying to arrange talks Wednesday in Washington, D.C., between Boeing and the Machinists union.
Mo. smelter downplays EPA concerns about lead AP (October 28, 2009) ST. LOUIS (AP) - The Doe Run Co. on Tuesday downplayed the extent of lead contamination at properties near its Herculaneum lead smelter, but the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency stood by tests showing many neighboring homes had tainted soil.
Farm states may copy Ohio vote on livestock rules AP (October 28, 2009) TOLEDO, Ohio (AP) - Ohio voters will decide next week whether to create a board overseeing livestock care in a move that could give farmers in rural America a blueprint for battling animal rights groups intent on outlawing cramped cages for chickens and hogs.
THE INFLUENCE GAME: Doctors' lobby in tricky spot AP (October 28, 2009) WASHINGTON (AP) - Does the AMA matter in the health care debate? Congress is beginning to have its doubts, despite the medical association's deep pockets and platoons of lobbyists.
Interim New Mexico state investment officer named AP (October 28, 2009) SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) - New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson has selected Bob Jacksha to serve as interim state investment officer while the administration searches for a permanent appointee.
Educators urge lower lottery profits for Ore. bars AP (October 28, 2009) SALEM, Ore. (AP) - Education advocates are pressing the Oregon Lottery Commission to reduce what they say are overly generous payouts to bars and taverns that host the state's video gambling machines.
House panel votes for new rating agency rules AP (October 28, 2009) WASHINGTON (AP) - The House Financial Services Committee has voted to set new rules for credit rating agencies, which lawmakers say misled investors by giving high marks to risky securities tied to subprime mortgages.
Democrats struggle to find unity on health plan AP (October 28, 2009) WASHINGTON (AP) - Democrats are still struggling to find a strategy that will let them push a health care overhaul through the Senate and fulfill President Barack Obama's goal of signing a bill this year.
FAA grounds wayward Northwest Airlines pilots AP (October 28, 2009) WASHINGTON (AP) - The two Northwest Airlines pilots who overshot their Minneapolis destination by 150 miles are grounded indefinitely unless the National Transportation Safety Board grants them a reprieve.
La. sells $200M in bonds for building projects AP (October 28, 2009) BATON ROUGE, La. (AP) - Louisiana sold $200 million in general obligation bonds to generate upfront cash to finance state construction projects, the first such bond sale since September 2006.
Ind. Republicans want to delay jobless tax hikes AP (October 28, 2009) INDIANAPOLIS (AP) - The state should delay unemployment tax increases on businesses from 2010 to 2011 to help companies retain workers and possibly wait long enough for a federal bailout, Republicans who control the Indiana Senate said Tuesday.
No guarantees on Senate health bill's public plan AP (October 27, 2009) WASHINGTON (AP) - The focus of the health overhaul debate now shifts to whether Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid can persuade a handful of moderate senators to get behind his new proposal for a government-sponsored insurance plan.
Long-term care insurance program gains in House AP (October 27, 2009) WASHINGTON (AP) - House health care legislation expected within days is likely to include a new long-term care insurance program to help seniors and disabled people stay out of nursing homes, senior Democrats say.
Gov. Riley announces launch of Aerospace Alliance AP (October 27, 2009) BAY MINETTE, Ala. (AP) - The governors of Alabama, Louisiana and Mississippi have announced the launch of an alliance designed to create an aerospace and aviation corridor from Panama City, Fla., to Louisiana.
Obama promotes 'smart grid' AP (October 27, 2009) WASHINGTON (AP) - After an overnight stay in Miami, President Barack Obama heads to Arcadia, Fla., to promote "smart grid" technologies.
Ark. energy companies make case for climate bill AP (October 27, 2009) LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (AP) - An industry group said Monday that alternative energy companies need Congress to pass the climate bill so they will be assured of a long-term market, one that will ultimately lower energy costs and employ 25,000 in Arkansas by 2020.
Senate hearing kicks off climate bill AP (October 27, 2009) WASHINGTON (AP) - Top Obama administration officials are looking to make their case before the Senate for aggressive action to combat climate change, even as Republicans show no sign of softening their dislike of a Democratic bill that would dramatically cut heat-trapping pollution.
Biden tells Ohio stimulus program helping economy AP (October 27, 2009) CLEVELAND (AP) - Vice President Joe Biden told an Ohio audience that the federal economic stimulus package is helping to revive the U.S. economy and has helped stabilized the financial markets.
Tenn. Appeals Court rules for Bible Park rezoning AP (October 27, 2009) MURFREESBORO, Tenn. (AP) - The Tennessee Court of Appeals at Nashville has ruled in favor of a rezoning that would allow a Bible-based theme park to be built in Rutherford County.
Kerry: US leadership at stake in climate debate AP (October 27, 2009) WASHINGTON (AP) - The lead author of a Senate climate bill says action to combat global warming will raise energy prices, but also create jobs and that inaction could cause even worse economic and security problems.
Wyo. governor talks energy with Western lawmakers AP (October 27, 2009) JACKSON, Wyo. (AP) - Wyoming Gov. Dave Freudenthal warned western state lawmakers that despite easy platitudes about working together, competition among the states often blocks interstate cooperation.