NCSL in the News January Archive

This archive of news articles that cite the National Conference of State Legislatures should serve as a record only. Links to the actual articles may not work several weeks after they have been posted. If you are interested in a story with a non-working link, please visit the Web site of the newspaper in which it was printed. These links are provided for information only. NCSL does not endorse the views in any articles linked to from this page. 

January 31 GrassCatcher:

Friends and foes of REAL ID express doubts
Maryland Gov. Martin O'Malley's decision to opt in by 2010 to a federal identification program called REAL ID has drawn criticism from supporters as well as detractors.  WTOP News Read the article.

W.Va. may offer gun training in schools
A significant drop in the number of hunters in West Virginia has left a hole in the state's budget, and one lawmaker thinks he has a solution: allow children to receive hunter training in school.  Associated Press Read the article.

Teen takes a stand against voter apathy
At 17, Jeff Liu should be plunked on a couch, eyes glazed over, in front of a video game. He should be updating his MySpace profile. He should be engaged in extensive texting sessions about the latest drama at school. Commentary in the Houston Chronicle Read the article.

Illegal immigrants bill advances
A statewide onslaught against illegal immigrants passed the first of three major hurdles Wednesday, but critics argued that it's nothing more than "feel-good" legislation that panders to South Carolinians frustrated by Congress' failure to act.  Charleston Post Courier Read the article.

Health-care reform to shift focus
The demise of California's attempt at comprehensive health-care reform this week means that advocates of overhauling the health-care system will turn their focus back to Washington, several experts said yesterday, as an increasingly tough budget climate raises new questions about whether states can go it alone. The Washington  Post Read the article.

Students worry cell bill sends wrong message
State legislators want to ban text messaging while driving and limit cell phone use to hands-free devices. Research shows a phone conversation while driving is distracting and dangerous, whether you talk hands-free or not, said Northeastern University senior Matt Whalen. The Massachusetts bill, which passed the state House of Representatives last week, would prohibit driving with a handset on your ear, but allow hands-free talking.  Boston Now Read the article.

Kansas coal policy outlined
Kansas would join a handful of other states in attempting to limit carbon dioxide emissions while also allowing two new coal-fired power plants in the state under legislation introduced Wednesday. CNN Money Read the article.

Why discount medical cards are a rip-off
Many consumers who turn to medical discount cards to reduce their health care costs claim to be getting bilked by errant discount medical-plan organizations.  Commentary in the Street Read the article.

January 30 GrassCatcher:

Gore expresses support for homosexual marriage
Al Gore, winner of the Nobel Peace Prize and self-proclaimed "inventor of the Internet," has earned a new moniker: champion of homosexual marriage.  CNS News Read the article.

Bill backers say Wyoming could become a haven
State Rep. Dan Zwonitzer, R-Cheyenne, said he strongly supports allowing immigrant workers into Wyoming with proper documentation.  Casper Star-Tribune Read the article.

Campaign 2008: Immigration issue has Republicans vocal, Dems quiet
After 40 years of voting but never getting involved in grass-roots politics, Walter Hecht decided after the past presidential election that he wanted to do something this time around.  Salt Lake Tribune Read the article.

Friends and foes of Real ID express doubts
Gov. Martin O'Malley's decision to opt in by 2010 to a federal identification program called REAL ID has drawn criticism from supporters as well as detractors.  The Frederick News Read the article.

Two lawmakers want 20 percent spending cut
As state government moves into budget season next week, two Allegheny County lawmakers of opposing political parties are urging their colleagues to cut what the Legislature spends on itself by 20 percent.  Pittsburgh Tribune Review Read the article.

NY bill regulates sex offenders' web use
New York sex offenders would be required to reveal their online aliases to the state under legislation that aims to protect users of MySpace, FaceBook and other Web hangouts from Internet predators.  The Associated Press Read the article.

January 29 GrassCatcher:

Zany lawmakers need lesson in good tax policy
With a resounding pounding of the gavel, state lawmakers are off and running for another session of legislative mischief or as we have heard in the past, when the Legislature is in session hold on to your wallets.  Hawaii Reporter Read the article.

Lobbyists a major source of campaign money for legislators
With an election year looming, lobbyists and their clients primed the campaign pump by handing out nearly $843,000 in political contributions last year to legislators and other New Mexico officials.  Las Cruces Sun-News Read the article.

What goes around...Our fiscal forecast in the 'tweens'
Seems like only yesterday we were writing about state budget woes here and elsewhere. Then a funny thing happened on the way to a meltdown: The national economy recovered, the natural gas industry took off and Oklahoma began to prosper.  Opinion in The Oklahoman Read the article.

How would bill on immigration add up for Hoosiers?
Whether the work is picking tomatoes on a farm or pounding nails at a construction site, Indiana relies on cheap and plentiful immigrant labor -- legal and illegal -- to do business.  IndyStar Read the article.

Partisan staff fuel combat: Legislators should cut corps, add more experts
The Michigan House of Representatives has 110 members - and 390 employees, 299 of which are deemed partisan. The Michigan Senate has 38 members - and 312 employees, 238 of which are deemed partisan. These workers are on top of the roughly 200 folks who staff the Legislature's various technical and support services. And, frankly, they are too numerous for the state's good.  Opinion in Lansing State Journal Read the article.

Ex-lawmaker Paul Conner dies at 82
Paul Conner, an orphan who grew to serve as a popular Washington state legislator on the North Olympic Peninsula for 35 years, has died.  Peninsula Daily News Read the article.

Schools find creative ways to include fine arts in curriculum Arts have long been a part of education, but advocates say such classes are often first on the chopping block as schools face tight budgets and increasing pressure to perform on high-stakes academic tests. AP in My West Texas Read the article.

January 28 GrassCatcher:

Ethics bills to enter fast track in Juneau
Memories at the Alaska Capitol go back decades. No one seems to remember a legislator ever being excused from voting because of a conflict of interest. That's just how it's always been done.  Anchorage Daily News Read the article.

Texas Senator Leticia Van de Putte to give democrats' Spanish State of the Union response
Sen. Leticia Van de Putte has never been one to shy away from a fight, whether leading fellow Democrats on a 45-day walkout to New Mexico in 2003 or standing alone last year in support of a controversial plan to vaccinate young girls against a sexually transmitted virus.  Dallas Morning News Read the article.

Session rules promote delay
Looking at the Michigan Legislature's performance in recent years - 2007 in particular - it's clear the body's rules are too loose, too conducive to a lack of discipline.  Opinion in the Lansing State Journal Read the article.

Legislators cannot abstain, even if they stand to benefit
When Utah's 104 lawmakers descended on Capitol Hill last week, they brought with them at least that many potential conflicts of interest.  Salt Lake Tribune Read the article.

Utah steps up sex-offender law, still short of federal compliance 
Registered sex offenders will be listed longer and will be required to pay moderately higher fees under a proposed bill in the legislature. Daily Herald Read the article.

Native legislators serve in leadership roles 
Four Native legislators are in leadership positions in the state House and Senate as the legislature grapples with a diminished economy and problems within the state's transportation system.  Indian Country Today Read the article.

Overhaul legislature: year-round sessions, partisan staffing fuel Michigan's problems
Operating a Legislature, or a legislator, isn't cheap.  Opinion in the Lansing State Journal Read the article.

State competition heats up for stem-cell scientists
Seven states, including Connecticut, are leading the world in political and financial support for embryonic stem-cell research.  Hartford Business Read the article.

States undecided in Real ID Act
Pennsylvania officials have not decided yet whether to comply with a federal law aimed at greater security and increased requirements to receive a driver’s license or state identification card.  Altoona Mirror Read the article.

Immigrants, employers brace for plan's effects
Some of the regular customers at Ignacio Ramirez's Mexican grocery store have already left Iowa, while others told him this month that they are preparing to move to another state.  Des Moines Register  Read the article.

January 25 GrassCatcher:

Schools find creative ways to squeeze in arts
A Center on Education Policy survey released this year showed that more than 40 percent of the districts surveyed have cut time in elementary schools for non-tested subjects, including art and music.  Education Week Read the article.

Ten on faculty receive new appointments
Two members of the University faculty have been named distinguished service professors, while eight others have received named professorships. University of Chicago Chronicle Read the article.

January 24 GrassCatcher:

Liquor ad deal shows power held by lobbyists
A couple years ago, the state's top alcohol regulator was in a tough spot. A proposed bill in the legislature would have clipped one of her agency's key duties, regulating liquor and wine commercials.  Tennessean  Read the article.

Editorial: Is legislative calendar right for the times?
With each passing day, worry about the state's economy grows -- and so does the impatience and frustration of many Minnesota legislators.  Star Tribune Read the article.

FAQ: How does the election system work
Msnbc.com's political correspondent Tom Curry answers your questions.  MSNBC Read the article.

House committee takes up clothing discrimination bill
A state lawmaker says some nightclubs are discriminating against blacks by barring people wearing certain name brand clothing from their establishments.   Times Republican Read the article.

Caught in the crossfire
Illegal immigration draws impassioned and often incendiary rhetoric from people on opposing sides. In a moderate-size city like Tulsa, such an atmosphere can quickly erode trusted and carefully cultivated relationships among members of the community, local businesses, and institutions such as public schools.  Red Orbit Read the article.

Spitzer may propose pay raises for state legislators
At a time when the state’s economy is declining, Gov. Eliot L. Spitzer is considering backing a pay raise for the 212-member State Legislature.  The Buffalo News Read the article.

January 23 GrassCatcher:

Medicaid will not cover errors in Pennsylvania
Taxpayers will no longer pick up the tab for extra care due to serious preventable hospital errors, Gov. Rendell said yesterday, a move that continues Pennsylvania's status as a leader of the growing national push to reduce mistakes in health care.  Philadelphia Inquirer Read the article.

Lawmakers urged to reject Real ID act  
With only 108 days for state legislatures to pass, and governors to sign, legislation implementing the various regulations mandated by the federal REAL ID Act, opponents of the controversial measure are putting aside political differences in an attempt to defeat the measure in the Pennsylvania General Assembly.  The Bulletin Read the article.

Making the grade
Linking in-school behavior and academic achievement to a teen’s driving privileges is a move in the right direction.  Editorial in Mineral Wells Index Read the article.

Lawmakers consider cell phone limits
After a decade of failure, a proposal banning Maryland drivers from using hand-held cell phones and text messaging appears to be gaining momentum, lawmakers said.  Examiner Read the article.

Law and potential disorder 
Find out how the latest slew of legislation could affect your business in 2008.  Entreprenuer.com  Read the article.

Medicaid funding could be cause of abortion battle
After a year that saw their favored legislation stalled, abortion opponents hope the current legislative session will be more fruitful, despite the torpor of an election year.  The Associated Press in the Huntington Herald Dispatch Read the article.

Washington lawmakers consider bill of rights for airline passengers
Kate Hanni is crusading for airline passenger rights, using her own personal experience on a grounded flight last year to encourage states to follow New York's lead.  The Associated Press in the Seattle Post Intelligencer Read the article.

Backers say cap gains change would put state ahead of the pack 
Wisconsin would be unique in the Midwest if the Legislature approves a plan by Gov. Jim Doyle that would allow some Wisconsin investors to defer paying capital gains taxes if they reinvest their profits in Badger State start-ups, advocates say.  Wisconsin Business Journal Read the article.

January 22 GrassCatcher:

Anti-gang measure gaining support
Anti-gang legislation got a full measure of support at a packed Washington legislative committee hearing Monday as Yakima County officials and others testified on its behalf.  Yakima Herald Republic Read the article.

Limits eyed on cell use in cars
Maryland legislators will try again this year to ban hand-held cell phone use and text messaging while driving, hoping that nationwide momentum for such laws will propel the bill's passage.  Baltimore Sun Read the article.

Retirees' fund to pull assets from Iran
The Public Employees’ Retirement Association has agreed to divest its assets from Iran at the behest of Sen. Josh Penry, R-Grand Junction, and a handful of other Colorado lawmakers.  Grand Junction Sentinel Read the article.

Michigan: Part-time legislature? Tax-hike public votes?
A father son pair are leading a pair of petition drives for ballot proposals that would dramatically change Michigan state government.
One referendum would establish a part-time legislature. The other would call for public votes on tax increases, although legislators would maintain the final say-so. Associated Content Read the article.

New Mexico health initiative could face legal troubles
Gov. Bill Richardson's ambitious proposal to provide health care coverage for every person in New Mexico sounds almost too good to be true.  Albuquerque Tribune Read the article.

January 21 GrassCatcher

States consider privatizing lotteries
Betting on the state lottery for some quick cash?  USA Today Read the article.

Immigration: old bills return to the hill
When the Utah Legislature convenes today, lawmakers will be facing more than a dozen measures related to immigration, the highest number of bills ever brought forward on the issue.  Salt Lake Tribune Read the article.

Certified teachers' value in question
Palm Beach County boasts one of the highest number of nationally board-certified teachers, whom schools tap as mentors for new teachers and rely on to help struggling students.  Palm Beach Post  Read the article.

Multiple-party endorsements for candidates weighed
Unable to reach a verdict last year, Maine lawmakers are still reviewing a proposal that would allow a once-prevalent but no longer widespread election procedure known as fusion voting.  The Associated Press in the Boston Globe Read the article.

Lawmaker-Marine faces extra challenges as he heads to Iraq
Jim Watson is going to war, and that means taking care of details familiar to any Marine: updating his will, packing his duffel bags, saying goodbye.  Sauk Valley Newspapers, Illinois Read the article.

Give thanks to part time legislatures
The last few months have been tough for Utah lawmakers.  Deseret News Read the article.

Lawmakers look to toughen laws for ice-free cars
Theresa Deleston was driving south on Interstate 95, heading to work after a mid-December snowstorm when a sheet of ice dislodged from the roof of the tractor-trailer in front of her.  The Advocate Read the article.

Boys Scouts tackle anti-bullying tactics
Boy Scouts won't tolerate being called Boy Scouts anymore.  Dallas Morning News Read the article.

Hotel wasn't required to have CO detectors
No one, not the federal, state or local government, not the fire chief, not the corporate bosses, insisted that the Best Western hotel in Upper Macungie Township use carbon monoxide detectors. So it had no obligation to do so.  Allentown Morning News Read the article.

Grim news for state budgets 
While economists and others debate the prospects of a recession in the United States, employment data suggest recession has already arrived or is knocking on the door of a few Midwestern states. The latest state to hit the economic skids is Minnesota.  Reuters in the Howe Street News Read the article.

Lawmakers ready to consider sweeping gang bill
Several communities in Eastern Washington's farm belt made headlines last year when they considered or adopted ordinances to outlaw gang membership in response to escalating crime, ranging from graffiti to murder.  The Associated Press in the Seattle Post Intelligencer Read the article.

Dark motives are behind lack of light in some areas
After God created the heaven and the earth, according to the book of Genesis, he said: “Let there be light.” And there was light. Obviously, though, he wasn’t counting on the antics of scumbags, thieves and meth heads.  Opinion in the Colorado Springs Gazette Read the article.

January 18 GrassCatcher:

Should drunken drivers have special licenses?
A proposed law in Oklahoma appears to be among the first in the nation that would require convicted drunken drivers to have a special mark placed on their driver's licenses.  ABC News Read the article.

It's Christmas all year for gift-loving legislators
Utah's 104 part time legislators took a quarter million dollars in gifts last year from lobbyists and public colleges.  Editorial in the Deseret Morning News Read the article.

Many state budgets looking grim for new year
Many states are greeting 2008 with a major budget hangover and are looking for relief from falling home sales, higher energy prices and reduced sales-tax collections after two years of overflowing coffers.  Stateline.org in Portsmith Herald News Read the article.

Panel probes impact of trade deals on N.H. 
Do international trade agreements entered into by the United States undermine the ability to pass or enforce laws and regulations protecting the environment or health or working conditions within our own borders?  New Hampshire Business Review Read the article.

DHS extends Real ID deadline, but funding and privacy questions remain 
After nearly three years of leaving states to twist in the wind, the Department of Homeland Security released the final regulations for Real ID.  Government Technology Read the article.

January 17 GrassCatcher:

Bill aims to slow lawmaker-lobbyist revolving door
A Senate proposal would require Indiana lawmakers to go through a one-year "cooling off" period before becoming Statehouse lobbyists, but a committee gave the bill a chilly reception at a hearing Wednesday.  WSBT Read the article.

Ban on forced annexations heads to Senate
A bill prohibiting forced annexation in Indiana cleared its first legislative hurdle Wednesday.  Journal Gazette Read the article.

Cutting electives harms quality of education
The education system is in a national crisis. For nearly a decade, The National Conference of State Legislatures has reported a trend in shrinking budgets, nationwide.  Opinion in The Morning Call Read the article.

No more texting behind the wheel, transportation chairman says
Text messaging while driving should be banned throughout Tennessee, according to the chairman of the Senate Transportation Committee.  Nashville City Paper Read the article.

Black legislators to use clout
The Legislative Black caucus promoted a legislative agenda that includes, among other things, payday-lending reform, voting-rights bills and proposals to expand health care to minorities and underserved areas of the commonwealth.  Virginia Times Dispatch Read the article.

Local officials agree with Manchin’s license plan
West Virginia Gov. Joe Manchin’s plan to link high school grades to driver’s licenses for students is getting a mixed reaction in Wood County.  News and Sentinel Read the article.

States prevail over industry with tougher chemical security laws
The federal government won't override New Jersey's chemical security laws, which are tougher than the national standard, thanks to a provision pushed by Sen. Frank Lautenberg. Insurance Journal Read the article.

More states may copy Arizona's proof-of-citizenship voter requirement
Concerns over illegal immigration have causes more than a dozen states to consider forcing residents to show proof of citizenship when they register to vote.  Tucson Citizen Read the article.

DNC: Millionaire Mitt, the economic populist?
South Carolina Republicans beware.... The Mitt Romney you see this week may bare little resemblance to the Romney you saw last year.  Earth Times Read the article.

January 16 GrassCatcher:

Sweeping food safety changes may come as early as spring
Spurred by food safety lapses in 2007, Congress appears ready to push for aggressive new regulations in the coming year, according to food manufacturing and legal experts.  Capital Press Read the article.

Phone limits a tough cell for drivers
State lawmakers today are expected to debate whether to ban Massachusetts drivers from using cell phones behind the wheel.  Brockton Enterprise Read the article.

Utahns favor local immigration laws
When it comes to illegal immigration this legislative session, lawmakers have their hands full. Deseret News Read the article.

Tough cell: Lawmakers revisit phone ban
State lawmakers today are expected to debate whether to ban Massachusetts drivers from using cell phones behind the wheel.  Metro West Daily Read the article.

Sebelius to follow president's state of the union  
Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid announced Tuesday that Governor Kathleen Sebelius of Kansas will deliver the Democratic Address on the State of the Union following the President’s speech to Congress on Monday, January 28.  KSNT-TV Read the article.

Republican hopefuls offer a third Bush term on the economy: no thanks
With Michigan in the spotlight today and concerns over the economy in the state, it's time to take another look at the GOP candidates and their abysmal records on the economy.  Earthtimes, UK Read the article.

Lumina Awards $6.8 Million Nationwide
The Indianapolis-based Lumina Foundation for Education has announced more than $6.8 million in grants during the fourth quarter of 2007.  Inside Indiana Business Read the article.

America, meet Leticia
State Sen. Leticia Van de Putte has landed a plum assignment — she will give the national Spanish-language response to President Bush’s State of the Union address on Jan. 28, congressional Democrats announced today.  Statesman Read the article.

Manchin wants driver's licenses tied to teens' grades
For West Virginia teens, a 'C' average could soon determine whether they drive to school in style or show up to class on foot.  Education Week Read the article.

January 15 GrassCatcher:

Speaker: No plans to vote on pay raise
It has been eight years since the Connecticut General Assembly voted itself a raise, and it appears lawmakers will deny themselves in 2008.
Greenwich Times Read the article.

REAL ID is a bad deal that's not done yet
So troublesome is Real ID that both chambers of Montana's quarrelsome Legislature voted unanimously to outlaw it.  Opinion in Great Falls Tribune Read the article.

Budget report 2008: Treading carefully
The libraries that reported back in the annual LJ Budget Survey are doing reasonably well, continuing the modest growth we reported last year.  Library Journal Read the article.

State preparedness gets great marks
Indiana is one of the nation's best-prepared states for a bioterrorist attack or natural disaster, after meeting nine of 10 criteria for preparedness.  Indianapolis Star Read the article.

States vie for stem-cell scientists
In the past two years, California, Connecticut, Illinois, Maryland, New Jersey, New York and Wisconsin have awarded some $230 million in grants—more than three times as much as the federal government spent on embryonic stem-cell studies in that time—and there has been no shortage of scientists seeking the money. Stateline.org Read the article.

Blagojevich has power to amend, laugh
You have questions about Gov. Rod Blagojevich's big surprise last week. And I have answers. Column in the Chicago Tribune Read the article.

Missouri bill would put in place price gouging protections
A Missouri state lawmaker renewed his effort to help protect consumers in the state from being gouged at the fuel pump. Land Line Magazine  Read the article.

Individual mandates to increase health coverage may top state reform strategies for 2008
California appeared to take a step closer to universal health coverage on Dec. 17 when the Democratic-controlled state assembly approved Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger's (R) health care reform legislation. That state is one of several likely to push for major health reforms in 2008, using individual mandates as a strategy to increase coverage.  AIS Health Read the article.

Political notebook: Sites for North Dakota’s February 5 caucus picked
Sites have been picked for North Dakota’s Republican and Democratic presidential preference caucuses on Feb. 5.  The Jamestown Sun Read the article.

January 14 GrassCatcher:

Bill would require pre-abortion ultrasound
They could choose not to look, but women seeking an abortion would first have to undergo an ultrasound and review the results with their doctors, under a measure proposed last week in the General Assembly.  Lexington Herald Leader Read the article.

Political notebook: sites for North Dakota’s February 5 caucus picked 
Sites have been picked for North Dakota’s Republican and Democratic presidential preference caucuses on Feb. 5.  The Jamestown Sun Read the article.

Only one day away
Was Del. Robert A. McKee planning to play hooky for a quarter of this year's General Assembly session?  Opinion in the Haggerstown Morning Herald Read the article.

Investing in higher education
Arriving in America at the age of 13 from Macau, Benny Lee knew that education was probably the only chance would have to face a bright future in his newly adopted country.  Gotham Gazette Read the article.

Election year brings new petition initiatives
Less than two years after 1 of Nebraska's most tumultuous petition seasons, voters could be in for another round as clipboard-carrying activists try to get initiatives on the Nebraska ballot.  KPTM-TV, Omaha Read the article.

Real ID 
A bad idea for several reasons.  Opinion in the Log Cabin Democrat Read the article.

Economic future will stay a theme in Sebelius speech 
Gov. Kathleen Sebelius delivers a State of the State speech Monday night crafted to set the tone of debate in the 2008 session of the Legislature.  The Topeka Capitol Journal Read the article.

House has $8.7 million surplus to use  
While some agencies are pleading for emergency funding to pay their bills for the rest of the year, the Oklahoma House has had the luxury of an $8.7 million surplus to buy furniture, pay staff salaries and handle other expenses.  Tulsa World Read the article.

"REAL ID" is a real headache for states
The Bush administration hit the brakes Friday on a controversial law requiring Americans to carry tamper-proof driver's licenses, delaying its final implementation by five years, until 2017.  Los Angeles Times in CW2.com Read the article.

Car inspections good for 2 years? 
A proposal before the Legislature to make vehicle inspection stickers good for two years instead of one is setting the stage for a debate that pits safety concerns against convenience and cost.  Seacoast Online Read the article.

Real ID is postponed for 5 years
The Bush administration hit the brakes Friday on a controversial law requiring Americans to carry tamper-proof driver's licenses, delaying its final implementation by five years, until 2017.  Los Angeles Times Read the article.

Virginia considers ban on driving while texting
Some Virginia lawmakers want drivers to take their thumbs off the keyboards and put them back on the steering wheel while cruising down Virginia's roads.  Washington Post Read the article.

More oversight wanted for at-risk kids
The death of three young children supposedly being watched by Denver Social Service agencies has raised concerns among Colorado lawmakers.  KMGH-TV, Denver Read the article.

ID plan is broadly criticized
A new Bush administration plan to create national standards for driver's licenses drew heavy criticism yesterday from civil liberties groups, some Republican and Democratic lawmakers, governors, and the travel industry.  Washington Post Read the article.

State officials not sold on new license rules
State officials and some in Congress remain skeptical about new federal rules for driver’s licenses, even after major changes designed to cut the cost of those rules and provide more flexibility.  Stateline.org Read the article.

State groups acknowledge final Real ID regulations
With just 120 days before the implementation deadline, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) today released final Real ID regulations.  Biloxi Sun Herald Read the article.

Smokers, kids called bad car mix
Nebraskans should put out their cigarettes before climbing into their cars, at least when children are riding in the same car, a state lawmaker said Thursday.  Omaha World Herald in the Bellevue Leader Read the article.

State higher ed spending up, for now
It looks like a calm before the storm: A new study shows state spending on higher education is up sharply this year, but the economic slump means the flush times are unlikely to last.  The Associated Press Read the article.

Janaury 11 GrassCatcher:

Lawmaker proposes that stickers be good for two years instead of one
A proposal before the Legislature to make vehicle inspection stickers good for two years instead of one is setting the stage for a debate that pits safety concerns against convenience and cost.  The Associated Press in SeaCoastline.com Read the article.

Trenton: New Jersey chemical rules stand
The federal government will not override New Jersey’s chemical security laws, which are tougher than the national standard, were announced Thursday. New York Times  Read the article.

Silence draws vocal critics
When high school freshman Dawn Sherman learned that Illinois had a law requiring public schools to provide a moment of silence each day for "reflection and student prayer," she was outraged.  Baltimore Sun Read the article.

State appropriations for higher education see biggest jump in decades
State-tax support for higher education climbed 7.5 percent in the 2007-8 budget year, to $77.5-billion, according to a national survey scheduled for release today. It was the highest annual increase since 1985.  Chronicle of Higher Education (Subscription Only) Read the article.

The angst of car inspection: lawmaker wants to see stickers good for two years
It's an annual rite for car and truck owners in Maine: A fingers-crossed trip to a service station, dealership or auto-parts store for that sometimes elusive sticker that proclaims the vehicle's road worthiness for the next 12 months.  Kennebec Journal Read the article.

Political call bill's future in doubt
Legislation that would ban automated political phone calls faces an uncertain future in the Kentucky General Assembly.  The Associated Press in the Henderson Gleaner Read the article.

Bill would ban smoking in vehicles when children present
Nebraskans should put out their cigarettes before climbing into their cars — at least when children are riding in the same car, a state lawmaker said Thursday.  Omaha World Herald Read the article.

January 10 GrassCatcher:

Strict immigration law rattles Okla. businesses
Dozens of state legislatures, citing inaction by Congress, have adopted measures aimed at curbing illegal immigration. Oklahoma's new law, which took effect Nov. 1, is particularly far-reaching and has begun sending ripples through the state's economy and its immigrant communities.  USA Today Read the article.

Brungardt joins others in calling for smoking ban
A group of Kansas senators that includes several health care providers say they'll push for a statewide ban on smoking in public places during the upcoming legislative session. Salina Journal Read the article.

Split panel OKs pharmacist ethics
Despite confusion over the intent and practical effect of a pharmacists’ conscience bill, an Indiana Senate panel approved the legislation Wednesday that critics said could impede access to contraceptive pills and devices.  The Journal Gazette Read the article.

Arkansas taxes up $642 million under Huckabee, report shows
As he battles to try to win his party's nomination for president, Republican Mike Huckabee is being challenged by some critics, mostly fiscal conservatives, who are critical of the tax policies he pursued as governor of Arkansas.  CNSNews Read the article.

Column: Chemical health initiative, court duties fit well
Almost one-half of state inmates across this county convicted of a violent offense committed the crime while under the influence of one of more drugs.  Column in the Republican Eagle Read the article.

Wisconsin bill would allow cameras at stoplights
State lawmakers are pondering a bill that would let Wisconsin municipalities use cameras to crack down on the thousands of roadway renegades who plow through intersections.  The Trucker Read the article.

January 9 GrassCatcher:

Voter cited by opponents of Indiana's ID law registered in two states
On the eve of a hearing before the U.S. Supreme Court, the Indiana Voter ID law has become a story with a twist: One of the individuals used by opponents to the law as an example of how the law hurts older Hoosiers is registered to vote in two states.  KPCNews.com  Read the article.

Experts: New Jersey's plan is country's biggest
Gov. Jon S. Corzine's proposal to borrow $40 billion and pay for it with record-setting highway toll increases is the largest, most ambitious and expensive budget-fix plan proposed by any state, experts said Tuesday.  Cherry Hill Courier Post Read the article.

Bullying: A junior hate crime?
In American schools, bullying is often as common as pop quizzes and uncomfortable plastic chairs. Yet seemingly harmless, juvenile taunts may lead to anxiety and depression, drug use, or even violence.  Miller McCune Read the article.

After school network receives funding 
With more than 70% of Georgia families in which both parents work, more than a million kids in Georgia may spend time away from their parents between 3 and 6 p.m., the peak hours for violent juvenile crime and children becoming victims of crime.  The Forest Blade Read the article.

Lawmakers consider allowing red light cams in Wisconsin
Say cheese red light runners.  WTMJ News Radio Read the article.

Beshear puts Thomas over agriculture policy
Governor Steve Beshear recently announced the appointment of Roger Thomas, 57, as Executive Director of the Governor's Office of Agriculture Policy.  News-Democrat and Leader Read the article.

January 8 GrassCatcher:

Should Congress demand more state support for higher education?
Just last June, the chairman of the U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Education and Labor, George Miller, along with 31 cosponsors, introduced a provision in budget-reconciliation legislation that would punish states for not maintaining certain levels of appropriations.  Commentary in The Chronicle of Higher Education Sub. required. Read the article.

Immigration gains priority in legislature
As Missouri lawmakers prepare for Wednesday’s start of the 2008 legislative session, illegal immigration is again on the radar, but this time, state officials have created a wake in their rush to propose restrictions and penalties.  Columbia Tribune Read the article.

Many shut out by Medicaid
Indiana's Medicaid program spends nearly $6 billion a year to help about 1 million Hoosiers with health-care needs ranging from childbirth to nursing home care.  Palladium-Item Read the article.

January 7 GrassCatcher:

January 4 GrassCatcher:

California leads states' borrowing cost surge on housing slump 
From Sacramento and Albany to Boston and Tallahassee, politicians in state capitals across the U.S. are wrestling with the biggest increase in borrowing costs in three years as they struggle to shore up budget deficits widening on the national housing slump.  Bloomberg News Read the article.

Truckers push for national idling laws
Interstate truck drivers are clamoring for national rules on how long they can idle their engines to keep warm or stay cool during federally-mandated driving breaks. Truckers say the patchwork of state and local laws is difficult to follow.  USA Today Read the article.

Year ahead in politics
When Frederick's delegates and senators head to Annapolis next week, they'll be eight of the country's 7,382 state lawmakers in 2008.  The Frederick News Post Read the article.

Healthcare forecast bleak
Last year may be remembered as the year health care resurfaced as the top domestic issue facing Americans, but it will also be remembered as a year of lost opportunity.  The Washington Times  Read the article.

Lawmakers target text messaging while driving
One week after a New Bedford driver told police he was text messaging when he allegedly struck and killed a boy in Taunton, several SouthCoast lawmakers are ready to outlaw texting behind the wheel as a dangerous distraction.  South Coast Today Read the article.

2007, wildest ride ever for Hispanics
Never in history have Hispanics been the focus or fulcrum of so many major stories as in 2007.  Editorial in Scripps News Read the article.

New York City breaks ranks in assessing the criteria for 'poor'
Bloomberg wants to adopt the new measure in part so he can better assess whether the tens of millions of dollars the city plans to spend on new anti-poverty programs will have an effect on the standard of living of poor people.  The NY Times in the Taipei Times Read the article.

January 3 GrassCatcher:

Group predicts budgets top state lawmakers' lists
Presidential campaigns, national politics and the economy are expected to shape issues state lawmakers face in the coming year, the National Conference of State Legislatures says.  Sioux Falls Argus Leader Read the article.

Financial woes greet Maine's 2008 legislators
The sounds of prayers, the national anthem and Taps ceremonially opened Maine's 2008 legislative session on Wednesday. But behind the pageantry was a sobering assessment of state finances facing lawmakers as they get down to work.  The Associated Press in Seacoast Online Read the article.

Critics call Real ID a real nightmare
Maryland legislators want to stop the state Motor Vehicle Administration from trying to comply with federal requirements that they say would burden the state’s treasury and invade residents’ privacy.  Business Gazette  Read the article.

More states prohibit chatting and driving
New cell phone driver-distraction laws went into effect Jan. 1 in Oregon and Washington state.  RCR Wireless News Read the article.

Lawmakers target text messaging while driving
One week after a New Bedford driver told police he was text messaging when he allegedly struck and killed a boy in Taunton, several SouthCoast lawmakers are ready to outlaw texting behind the wheel as a dangerous distraction.  Standard Times in South Coast Today.com Read the article.

Forty-four state legislatures will meet in 2008
With the new year comes the start of legislative sessions for 44 states; 36 of those begin in January. While only eight meet throughout the year, several others will finish in a few months. In 2007, all states held sessions.  Biloxi Sun Herald Read the article.

State lawmakers consider real-time prescription drug monitoring essential
The Nation's first real-time system for tracking controlled substances announced today its support for recent initiatives in states like Wyoming and Florida that are realizing the need for upgrading their existing systems.  FOX News Read the article.

State legislatures may juggle education priorities, fiscal needs 
The 2008 state legislative season launches this month under a fiscal cloud in a number of states, where ambitious education initiatives—including expanded pre-K programs, college- or career-preparation efforts, and improved teacher pay—may end up being balanced against gloomy revenue projections.  Education Week Read the article.

January 2 GrassCatcher:

January 1 GrassCatcher:

No GrassCatcher, NCSL closed for the holiday

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