Stateline Stories

2013: The Year of Big Majorities

Last November’s voting left one party or the other in full control of government in most states of the country. But how they plan to use their power is a tricky question.

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As many of our colleagues wrestle with Bill Clinton's impeachment trial, a political tar baby if ever there was one, we delight in noting that interesting things are happening in the states. A new governor, striving to infuse his administration with team spirit, serves lunch to state employees. A state legislator proposes a pay differential for his state's teachers based on housing costs, an idea modeled after the military housing allowance. Neat stuff.

Texas Gov Bush A Devolution Fan

George W. Bush, the popular Texas governor and early favorite of political handicappers for next year's Republican presidential nomination, strongly advocates shifting money and power away from Washington to state and local government. In an interview, Bush said he believes accountability is heightened rather than diminished by the current trend toward government decentralization, or devolution.

Wisconsin's Tommy Thompson - Eyeing New Horizons?

Wisconsin's capitol, the political preserve of Republican Gov. Tommy G. Thompson for 13 years, is getting reacquainted with political diversity. Other players are emerging from the political spell cast by the 57-year-old four-term governor, who has thrice enjoyed the magic of a 60 percent reelection margin. The result could be some interesting jockeying as Thompson tries to position himself for a change of scenery and others vie to succeed him.

Young Artists Mark California's Changing of the Guard

According to California schoolchildren, the same things that have historically drawn more people to the Golden State than to any other part of the country will propel it into the 21st Century -- the Pacific Ocean, dreams of fame, and a diverse culture and landscape. Artwork that incorporates those images was assembled into a mosaic and used as a decoration at California Gov. Gray Davis' inaugural events. The "Millennium Mosaic," a compellation of 21 works of art by school kids throughout the state, was also printed on commemorative t-shirts and banners.

'Fab Five' Give Arizona Something to Brag About

Arizona has become a political trailblazer by installing women in its top five elected posts -- a first among the 50 states. "We have varying responsibilities, we have different styles and we even may have some philosophical differences. But we share a commitment to working together for the betterment of the state of Arizona, " Gov. Jane Hull says. Positive stories touting the women's success are a welcome change for a state accustomed to notice for less progressive policies and politicians.

Minnesota's Colorful New Governor Stars on Web

With a click of the mouse, the silhouette of Minnesota Gov. Jesse Ventura's shaved head bursts into view like a full moon. Near the top of the computer screen, alongside a snapshot of the former pro wrestler's piercing eyes, is an in-your-face boast: "Our Governor Could Beat Up Your Governor. Welcome to jessethebody.com, the brainchild of Tony Scudiero, 18, and Victor Eifealdt, 17, students at the Minnesota Academy of Mathematics and Science. Mark Ordal, dean of the Winona, Minn. school, served as "technical advisor and co-conspirator."

State of the State Speechmaking Lets Governors Soar

It's a governor's chance to be the Great Communicator, to bedazzle rapt lawmakers and constituents with stirring, inspirational speechmaking. At least, that's how state of the state speeches probably play out in every governor's head. None of them deliberately sets out to deliver dry, endless policy recitations that sometimes make `state of the state' synonymous with SOS. If anything, there's a temptation to "sound like a speaker at a testimonial dinner," South Carolina's new Democratic Gov. Jim Hodges said in his maiden state of the state address. In a special report, stateline.org samples this year's gubernatorial rhetoric. Click On Headline To Read Full Story

Watchdog Group Raps State Legislators on Ethics

When New Mexico Senate President Manny Aragon, long a foe of private prisons, took a job last June with the Wackenhut Corrections Corp., the owner of two prisons being built in his state, even fellow Democrats were disgusted. In Georgia, critics jeered when House Democratic Leader Larry Walker co-sponsored a bill protecting beer and wine wholesalers from out-of-state competition because his law firm represented one of the law's chief beneficiaries. Neither lawmaker broke any law. According to a stinging new report from the Center for Public Integrity, a non-partisan political watchdog group, conflict of interest rules covering the nation's 7,400 state legislators are riddled with loopholes "big enough to drive a truck through."

Bush's Prospective Candidacy Overshadows Work of Texas Legislature

Lone Star state lawmakers are working their way through the biennial 140-day session of the Texas legislature under the white-hot glare of national attention generated by Republican Gov. George W. Bush's probable presidential campaign. Bush earlier this week announced the formation of a presidential exploratory committee that allows him to start raising campaign money. "I do have a compelling reason to consider running for president," he told Texas reporters at a news conference last Tuesday. "For my family and every family in America, I want the 21st Century to be prosperous."

1999 Year Of The Pay Raise For Many Lawmakers

Emboldened by the booming economy and robust budget surpluses, state legislators in many parts of the country are making 1999 the year of the pay raise. Lawmakers in 10 states -- Maryland, Kentucky, Idaho, Illinois, California, New York, Colorado, Arizona, Massachusetts, and Connecticut -- will be getting fatter salaries this year. And five other states -- Kansas, Georgia, Arkansas, South Carolina and Tennessee are talking about paying their legislators more. One exception to the national trend is New Mexico, where lawmakers get no salary for their 60-day session, just a per diem. That per diem was just cut by $1, bringing it down to $124 per day.

Michigan Legislature Feeling Impact Of Term Limits

In Maine, Arkansas, Missouri, California, Colorado, Oregon and Michigan, there are a lot of new faces in the legislature this year. These seven states are feeling the impact of term limits that drove scores of veteran lawmakers out of office in 1998. Eleven more states will be affected in coming years as state government is transformed. In this special report, stateline.org examines how the term limit experiment is working in Michigan, which is second only to Arkansas in the number of new legislators.

Wyoming Adopts Health Insurance For Kids Of Working Poor

Wyoming, the second to last state to construct a plan to provide health insurance to kids of the working poor, has finally adopted the necessary legislation, but it took two years and a contentious battle among lawmakers. On March 1, Republican Gov. Jim Geringer signed into law a bill that launches KidCare, Wyoming's version of the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP). Congress established the program in 1997 as part of the Balanced Budget Act, but Geringer and conservative legislators had long opposed the structure of CHIP, labeling it an "entitlement" program rather than a block grant, and a threat to "personal responsibility."

Online Governing A Reality, States See Online Voting In Future

Wired citizens in a growing number of states can already use their computers to file tax returns, apply for state gaming permits, renew driver's licenses and register their cars online. In the very near future, voters might also find themselves with the ability to cast ballots from their desktops. On March 17, California became the first state to officially study the possibility, convening a task force to study the efficacy of an Internet voting system.

Deal Ends Political Row That Tied Alabama Senate in Knots

Alabama's state senate reconvenes today after settling a rancorous parliamentary dispute that paralyzed the lawmakers for a month. The dispute stemmed from a power struggle between Democratic Gov. Don Siegelman and Republican Lt. Gov. Steve Windom. In this special report from Montgomery, Ala., stateline.org looks at what the fight was all about and the deal that ended it.

Montana's Racicot Thrives Politically By Listening

Montana Gov. Marc Racicot is not a national household name, but he's a big deal in Big Sky Country and increasingly a force in Republican political circles. Racicot's listen and learn approach, which is partly responsible for his soaring approval rating among Montanans, has been adopted by GOP leaders as part of their Election 2000 comeback strategy. And there's talk of a bright future for this key ally of Texas Gov. George Bush if Bush captures the White House. For a Racicot profile, click on

State Tax Cutting Brightens Outlook For Taxpayers In 2000

Thirty-seven states enacted tax cuts totaling $8.1 billion in fiscal year 1999 revenue losses, while only eleven states raised taxes, according to a year end summary of 1998 tax and budget actions released Wednesday by the Center for the Study of the States. Eight of the eleven states that enacted tax hikes cut other taxes, resulting in only four states enacting net tax increases.

Green's California Assembly Victory: Anomaly or Start Of Trend?

The greening of American politics has taken on new meaning following an upset special election to fill an Assembly vacancy in the California Bay area. Green Party member Audie Bock bested the seasoned Democrat, Elihu Harris, former two-term Oakland mayor and six-term assemblyman, by just 327 votes out of 29,021 cast in late March, ending nearly 30 years of Democratic domination in the district. In this special report, stateline.org looks at Bock's victory in a broader context.

A Portrait of America's Mothers From Census, Financial Data

How much is a Mother worth? One financial analyst estimates the value of a mother's services at more than $500,000 a year. Since Sunday is Mother's Day, stateline.org has compiled some interesting facts on the 35 million American women who are raising children.

State Legislature Scorecard: 21 Down, 28 Still At Work

Legislatures in Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Hawaii, Iowa, Indiana, Kansas, Montana and North Dakota adjourned recently, joining 12 others that previously finished their regular 1999 sessions. For a look at some of the accomplishments and unfinished business of the lawmakers. click on

Pay Hikes In Store For Lawmakers In 22 States

As state legislatures move to close the books on this year's sessions, pay hikes for lawmakers continue to play a prominent role in final-hour legislative frenzies. Since stateline.org last looked at the issue on March 10, twelve more legislatures have voted themselves raises, increasing the number of states enacting raises in the past year to 22. For a complete account, click on

Lawmakers In New Mexico, Missouri And Vermont Call It Quits

In New Mexico, Missouri and Vermont, lawmakers scrambled last week to complete last-minute haggling over end-of-session tax and budget measures. Each of these legislatures has now adjourned, bringing to 24 the number of state lawmaking bodies which have completed work for 1999. Click on

States Brace For Y2K With Legislation As Well As Computer Fixes

For states coming to grips with Y2K preparations, the task calls for more than tweaking computer systems to keep them running beyond December 31. Technical advice is being extended to businesses and local governments seeking millennium bug protection. State-regulated services are under scrutiny to make sure they get ready for 2000. And state lawmakers have been furiously churning out legislation designed to shield states and businesses from Y2K-inspired lawsuits. For more information, click on

Minnesota, West Virginia, Washington Adjourn; Alaska In Special Session

While Minnesota's governor and lawmakers celebrate the end of a legislative session that gave citizens the largest tax cut in state history, Alaska Gov. Tony Knowles has ordered his legislature to continue work in a special session until they forge a long-term budget plan. West Virginia and Washington lawmakers wrapped up special sessions this week by passing compromise bills on nagging issues, bringing to 27 the number of legislatures which have completed work for the year. For more information, click on

The Other Governor Bush Makes Impressive Start

Name a governor of a large southern state who has raised mountains of campaign cash, reached out to Democrats and pushed all of his top priorities through the state legislature without breaking a sweat. If you said George W. Bush, you're wrong. While the Texas governor has captured the national spotlight as he prepares for a campaign for president and battles with state lawmakers, his little brother Jeb is off to a more impressive start in Florida. For a profile of the other Gov. Bush, click on

Legislatures In Nebraska, Oklahoma, Illinois and Tennessee Close Shop

Nebraska lawmakers recently ended their 1999 session, but not before Gov. Mike Johanns vetoed a bill that would have imposed a two-year moratorium on capital punishment. Oklahoma, Illinois and Tennessee were also scheduled to shut down their legislative sessions by week's end, bringing the tally of statehouse adjournments to 31. To read on, click here.

Texas, Nevada Legislatures Close Shop, Leaving 19 States In Session

Texas and Nevada ended their 1999 legislative sessions this week, with education issues and tax cuts topping the agenda for the Lone Star state and several new crime bills and privatization of the workers compensation program the major accomplishments in Nevada. Both states paved the way for electric utility deregulation. Of the 16 state legislatures still in session, nine -- California, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin -- meet for most, or all, of the year.

California Legislators Duck Euthanasia Debate

The emotionally freighted issue of physician-assisted suicide has turned conventional political wisdom on its head in California. Despite overwhelming public support, a bill in the state Assembly that would let doctors prescribe lethal drugs to terminally ill patients so they could take their own lives has stalled for the year. Although the measure narrowly survived two committee votes, its chief sponsor, Berkeley Democrat Dion Aroner, has put off further action for the moment because "the public is farther ahead than the legislature."

Alabama Legislature Finishes Up, Connecticut Sets Special Session

As the summer heats up, two more legislatures -- Alabama and Connecticut -- finished their 1999 sessions, leaving just 15 still at work. Alabama lawmakers agreed to let the voters decide if the state should sponsor a lottery and finally approved legislation that requires all drivers to have auto liability insurance. Two hundred more teachers will staff the state's public schools and at least $20 million will go back home with lawmakers for new or fatter special projects. For the fifth year in a row Connecticut has balanced their budget, cut taxes and created surpluses -- some of which will be returned to taxpayers as rebates

Louisiana, Maine Legislatures Set To Adjourn

Two more states, Maine and Louisiana, are about to wind up their legislative sessions, leaving 13 states still engaged in the business of making laws. Louisiana is on track to adjourn Monday at 6 p.m. as scheduled. The picture is not quite as clear in Maine. Politicians there traditionally call it quits on the third Wednesday of the month, which was June 16. This year however, lawmakers are gathering at the statehouse this morning to hold a so-called "veto day." For more information, click on

State Government Reporters Conference Set For Denver This Fall

"Power to the States - A Conference on Reporting State Government" will be held in Denver on October 7-10, 1999. This professional conference, which is being co-sponsored by stateline.org, is designed to help statehouse reporters and editors share innovative coverage techniques, develop a deeper grasp of specific issues and make policy stories smart, compelling and relevant. In this special report, conference organizer Genevieve Anton of the Colorado Springs Gazette provides more information.

Rhode Island Lawmakers Rush To Adjourn; Two States In Overtime

While the legislatures in Maine and Louisiana closed their sessions as expected on June 19 and June 21 respectively and Rhode Island was poised to adjourn, lawmakers in Oregon and New Hampshire are pushing beyond scheduled closing dates to address unresolved issues. For more information, click on

State Lawmakers At Ground Zero As Lobbying Explodes

Petitioning the legislature is a time-honored American tradition and right. State lawmakers were lobbied this year by such disparate groups as exotic dancers, who were against a California proposal that they feared would strip away their employee rights, and medical students, who favored passage of an abortion clinic access measure in New York. But over the last 10 years, there has been a veritable explosion of professional lobbying, and in some quarters, this is causing concern.

Rhode Island, Delaware And New Hampshire Legislatures Adjourn

Lawmakers in Rhode Island, Delaware and New Hampshire gaveled their legislative sessions to a close this week, leaving just 10 state legislatures still in regular session. For more information, click on

Maine Panel To Consider Legislative Reform

On Wednesday, July 14, a 10-member panel in Maine will begin examining whether the state legislature needs to make changes in the way it does business. The panel will look at everything from the how to make the lawmaking body more representative to the way its sessions are structured. In this special report, Sandor Polster explains what's behind this unusual exercise and decribes how it will work. For more information, click on

States Scramble For Presidential Primary Advantage

With states competing for the prestige, influence and revenue generated by increasingly expensive presidential campaigns, a battle over scheduling primaries to elect delegates to the Republican and Democratic nominating conventions has erupted. The one-upmanship has gotten so bad that the New Hampshire legislature, anxious to protect its traditional first-in-the-nation presidential preference poll, recently passed a bill allowing the state to hold its 2000 primary in 1999 if necessary. For more information, click on

Ohio Legislature Recesses Till October

Ohio legislators recessed for the summer this week. When lawmakers return to Columbus in October they will have to decide how to divide the $9.8 billion tobacco settlement cash, and how to streamline the Department of Human Services and the Bureau of Employment into one agency. For more information, click on

Washington's Anti-Affirmative Action Vote Thrust Into Spotlight

When more than 5,000 minority journalists converged on Seattle for a conference/job fair last week, several presidential candidates followed, including Democratic Vice President Al Gore and Republican Texas Gov. George W. Bush. The gathering became something of a litmus test for all involved because of Washington State's ban on affirmative action -- race and gender-based preferences in state hiring, contracting and college admissions to make up for past discrimination.

Tobacco Dividend Sparks Fights; Lawyers Fees Challenged

For all the hoopla surrounding the $206 billion tobacco settlement that 46 states are set to share, the states are unlikely to get a penny of the money before the middle of next year. But that hasn't dampened the fight over how to spend the money.

Mississippi Faces Special Session; Oregon, North Carolina Near End

With legislators in Oregon and North Carolina working feverishly to wind up their 1999 sessions and Mississippi's governor calling back lawmakers for what promises to be a contentious special session on taxes, the count of legislatures still working remains at ten.

State Legislators Convene in Indianapolis

Health care, education, crime, electric deregulation and tax policy dominate the agenda of the National Conference of State Legislature's annual meeting, as over 1,100 state legislators representing all fifty states gather in Indianapolis to share information and form policies for upcoming legislative sessions.

Oregon Lawmakers Finally Adjourn, Others Also Call It Quits

Oregon lawmakers adjourned their third-longest session in history on Saturday, and their Mississippi counterparts opted for the briefest of special sessions instead of a gabfest when they answered the governor's call to return to Jackson last week. Elsewhere on the state political scene, North Carolina lawmakers ended work last week with an alacrity unusual in recent years, leaving eight legislatures that have yet to finish regular business. For more, click on

State Legislatures Part Of Internet Action

The Internet explosion is affecting nearly everyone-- including state governments. While government often has the reputation for being a little behind the times, all 50 states have legislative Web sites that help citizens connect with their elected representatives and state government. For more on how state legislatures are using the Internet to reach out to constituents, click on

Legislative Scorecard: Three States Still Budget-Less

Lawmakers in New York, Massachusetts and Wisconsin have yet to hammer out budgets for the new fiscal year, which has already begun in all three states. New York's budget is four months late, but that's become the norm in Albany. In Massachusetts, Democrats control both houses of the legislature and they still can't reach an agreement. In Wisconsin, lawmakers have left town on summer vacation and no one knows when they'll return. For more information, click on

Silver Haired Legislatures Push Senior Issues In Most State Houses

Lawmakers in 27 states toil under the vigilant gaze of political activists 60 years of age and older who propose and follow legislation affecting the elderly. The first Silver Haired Legislature was formed in Missouri in 1973. Since then, 26 more states have chapters and seniors in New Mexico and Arizona are looking to join.

Governors Highlight Budget Surpluses, Share Ideas

A golden era reigns for America's 50 state governors, most of whom are in St. Louis this week to share ideas and do some politicking at the 91st annual meeting of the National Governors' Association. The four-day meeting, which opened Saturday, comes at a time when state budget surpluses are at record levels.

California Democrats Successfully Exploit Gun Issue

When Governor Gray Davis signed California's new assault firearm ban legislation, he also was putting an end to one of Democrats' most potent campaign issues. And Republican political consultants agree that the gun control issue has been a detriment to GOP candidates since 1989.

States Fight For Federal Law To Redress Balance of Power

States say Congress oversteps its authority, sometimes unwittingly, with lawmaking activity that tramples on state prerogatives. Legislation to deal with the problem is pending in both the U.S. House and Senate, and last week President Clinton signed an executive order that declares that federal regulations may override state and local laws only when Congress expressly says they may do so. But Delaware Gov. Tom Carper, who has just ended a one-year term as chairman of the National Governors' Association, says even more needs to be done.

Legislative Scorecard: West Virginia Set For Special Session

West Virginia legislators return to Charleston Tuesday for a special session that will consider measures to help the state's drought-stricken farmers. California lawmakers resume deliberations Monday after a brief summer recess.

Four Legislatures Rapped For Lax Ethics Ignore Criticism

In a scathing report last February called "Hidden Agendas," the Center for Public Integrity, a non-profit, non-partisan government watchdog group, criticized state legislators in Michigan, Idaho, Utah and Vermont for having the laxest ethical standards in the nation. stateline.org looked at the situation again six months later, and found that little has changed.

Massachusetts, Wisconsin Vie For Dubious Fiscal Distinction

For all the shouting and self congratulation about the states' record budget surpluses, broad-based tax cuts and overflowing revenue streams, Massachusetts and Wisconsin are the unwilling finalists for an ignominious distinction: being last in the nation to pass a budget. In both cases, political skirmishing about how to spread surplus money around is a big reason for the fiscal tardiness.

California Lawmakers End Summer Break, West Virginia Okays Drought-Relief Money

After a monthlong summer recess, California lawmakers returned to Sacramento this week for the final stretch of the legislative session. No sooner were they back at work when Gov. Gray Davis angered fellow Democratic leaders by presenting his HMO reform plan to members of the press before they got a peek at it. Thursday the state Assembly narrowly approved legislation to ban the manufacture and sale of unsafe handguns in the state. West Virginia legislators got right down to business at an 80-minute special session by unanimously passing a bill that would free up as much as $11 million to help farmers and communities hard hit by this summer's severe drought conditions. Click on

California Advances Gun Control, Two States Still Without Budgets

While lawmakers in Wisconsin and Massachusetts remain stalemated over the state budget, the California Legislature, in its second week back in session, has turned its attention to gun control -- again. Earlier this summer, the legislature completed work on two gun control measures, which Gov. Gray Davis, a Democrat, has already signed.

Two Southern Governors Face Key Off-Year Elections

The headline-generating chief executives of Kentucky and Virginia are gearing up for off-year elections with significant ramifications for each man. Pro-gambling, Democratic Kentucky Gov. Paul E. Patton is cruising toward easy re-election in one of the country's most powerful governorships -- Kentucky's legislature meets every two years and has sessions that last only 60 days, giving Patton unparalleled sway over Blue Grass politics. Virginia's Republican Gov. James S. Gilmore III, though not a candidate himself, is weathering a firestorm of Democrat-fueled criticism over his state's clogged highways as he looks to wrest control of the House from the Democrats and consolidate the GOP's hold on the Senate.

Delaware Having Special Session This Month, Weary California Lawmakers Irritable

Democratic Delaware Gov. Thomas Carper is holding a special legislative session later this month over a teacher-accountability bill he's championed, a Carper aide said Thursday. Meanwhile, with about a week left before California's lengthy regular session adjourns, a weary assemblymen gives a colleague two options: Lower your voice, or let's take our disagreement outside.

California Lawmakers Adjourn, Others Face Special Sessions

As California wrapped up its legislative season, lawmakers in Missouri, Alaska and Delaware were preparing for special sessions. In California, landmark legislation was approved that will lead to sweeping nursing home reforms.

Census Bureau Estimates Big Gain in Minority Populations

The ranks of Hispanics, Asians and other minority groups in the United States rose "substantially" from 1990 to 1998, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. Three states where affirmative action policies are under challenge, California, Texas and Florida, showed significant increases in their minority populations. Two experts look at what it might mean to states to have more minorities within their borders. For more, click here.

Utah's Leavitt Looks Ahead In New Leadership Role

Utah Gov. Mike Leavitt, the new chairman of the National Governors' Association, sees states playing a greater role in a 21st century U.S. cyber society. The 48-year old Republican even has a term for his vision of tomorrow: "networked governance." As head of the NGA, he says he will work to make this a reality. Leavitt brings an impressive record of accomplishment to his new job. But critics say his focus on the future sometimes leads him to give short shrift to today's problems.

Michigan, Wisconsin Return, Alaska Tackles Native Rights

Summer has officially come to an end for Michigan and Wisconsin lawmakers who began their fall legislative sessions this week. Also, Alaska started a special session on Wednesday so Gov. Tony Knowles could give lawmakers one last chance to pass a rural subsistence constitutional amendment and prevent a federal takeover of fish and game management in the state.

Mega-Stores Hitting Political Flak In Several States

Preventing mega-stores such as Wal-Mart and Costco from chewing up competitors is on the agenda of more than just anti-growth groups and environmentalists these days. Policy makers in states and communities are considering restricting so-called "big-box" stores. California Gov. Gray Davis last week vetoed a bill aimed at limiting the growth of these stores. The issue has also been joined in Arizona, Colorado, Nevada, Vermont and Wisconsin.

Denver Conference To Focus On State Government News Coverage

More than 100 journalists will gather in Denver starting Thursday to exchange ideas on how to strengthen news coverage of state government. The three-day conference, which is being sponsored in part by stateline.org, will include workshops and panel discussions with leading experts on top public policy issues. Its purpose is to help statehouse reporters engage more readers, viewers and listeners by taking fresh approach to stories about state political developments that directly affect people's lives.

Journalism Conference Focuses On Statehouse Coverage

More than 100 journalists from 34 states and the District of Columbia are meeting in Denver this weekend to examine the state of state government reporting and share ideas for improvements. The conference opened with a disturbing content analysis that suggests newspaper coverage of state government leans heavily toward politics, ignoring important policy issues and the citizens most effected by them.

Virgina Legislative Election Brings Record Spending

Virginia, once the hub of the old Confederacy and now a center of the high tech industry, will elect a new general assembly on Nov. 2. Republicans hope to win control of the lawmaking body for the first time since 1883. While the battle in the Old Dominion state has not gotten a lot of national attention, campaign spending tops $16 million -- a record for Virginia -- and professional politicians will be watching the outcome closely.

Legislatures Continue to Wrestle With School Prayer

The U.S. constitutional tension between the right to freedom of religious expression and its limits has long posed thorny policy questions for politicians and educational officials, but in the last year those questions have grown more acute. The debate over rights and limits exploded with new force after last April 20 when two youths carried out the most violent and deadly school house massacre in the nation's history at Colorado's Columbine High School, killing 15 people including themselves.

Illinois Gov Set For Groundbreaking Visit To Cuba

Illinois Gov. George Ryan is attracting attention and controversy with a planned visit to Cuba set to start Saturday. The 65-year old Republican will be the first incumbent governor to visit Fidel Castro's communist stronghold in nearly 40 years. Ryan describes his trip as an "historic humanitarian mission." But critics say the Cuba visit could also serve to deflect attention from Ryan's sagging popularity and a burgeoning scandal in an office he held before he became governor.

Louisiana Election Looks Like No Contest For Governor

Louisiana voters go to the polls on Saturday to begin the process of electing a governor. Incumbent Republican Mike Foster seems a shoo-in for a second term. Until this week, the only question mark was whether Foster would be pushed into a Nov. 20 runoff with his Democratic opponent, U.S. Rep. William Jefferson, because of the crowded field of candidates competing for votes. But the latest polls suggest the race will be a runaway even though Foster has not had a scandal-free first four years in office.

Kentucky's Gov. Patton Favored To Win Four-Way Race Nov 2

Kentucky's one term-and-out rule no longer applies to the governor's office, thanks to a 1991 change in the state constitution. And Democratic Gov. Paul Patton is expected to benefit from the change in one of the two gubernatorial elections next Tuesday (the other is in Mississippi). Patton, a former coal industry executive, faces three challengers, but none of them looks strong enough to make the Bluegrass state voting a real contest.

Wisconsin's Gov Thompson Vows To Reshape Budget Tax Package

Wisconsin Gov. Tommy Thompson signed the 1999-2001 state budget today, but a power struggle over the Badger State budget is not yet over. Thompson has some firm ideas about how he wants the budget's tax cut features to work, and he's used his line-item power to get what he wants. The four-term governor has cast thousands of vetoes, and has yet to suffer an override. So he's likely to prevail in the fiscal test of wills.

State Voters Face Range of Critical Issues Tuesday

On Tuesday, Nov. 2, off-year elections will decide if Maine bans late-term abortions, if St. Paul, Minnesota, tries to steal the Twins baseball club from Minneapolis and if Texas will provide $400 million in loans for college students. Kentucky and Mississippi will choose a governor, and voters in Virginia will determine if their legislature goes Republican for the first time since Reconstruction.

Republican Favored in Mississippi Gov's Race

When the race to succeed term-limited Republican Kirk Fordice as Mississippi governor began earlier this year, Democratic Lt. Gov. Ronnie Musgrove had a big lead in the polls. But that lead appears to have evaporated in the face of a relentlessly upbeat campaign by U.S. Rep Mike Parker, a Republican convert. Musgrove is hoping for a heavy turnout of African-American voters in Mississippi's Delta region to help him squeak to victory, but Parker is the favorite on the eve of the election.

Virginia GOP Seizes Legislature, Dem Re-elected Kentucky Gov

Voters in Virginia Tuesday gave Republican Gov. James S. Gilmore III something the Old Dominion has never seen before -- a state legislature completely controlled by the GOP. In Kentucky, Democrat Gov. Paul Patton coasted to re-election. But a Mississippi governor's race between Democrat Ronnie Musgrove and Republican Mike Parker was too close to call on Wednesday morning, and officials said it might take 10 days before final results are known. In Washington, voters scrapped a car tax and gave the electorate more say over future tax policy.

Ventura Known For Caution As Well As Color

Jesse "The Body" Ventura is one of the few state governors whose name has become a household word. That's because the former pro wrestler turned Minnesota chief executive is a colorful addition to the pantheon of U.S. political celebrities. In Ventura's home state, however, the Reform Party idol's cautious leadership belies his colorful style. To read a profile of this unusual politician, click on

Responsibilities Of State Leaders Outpace Salaries

Twenty-two of the country's 50 state governors have received salary increases since 1998. Even so, their paychecks hardly match their responsibilities, especially when compared with the salaries of corporate leaders. New York Gov. George Pataki makes the most of any state executive, $179,000 a year. Nebraska's Mike Johanns earns the least, $65,000.

Alabama, Tennessee In Special Session, Massachusetts Budget Okayed

Alabama and Tennessee legislators are in special session dealing with tax issues, while Massachusetts lawmakers cleared the way for adjournment by finally passing a budget. For more information, click on

Globetrotting Governors Push Exports, Commerce

With most state legislatures having finished work for the year, many of the nation's governors are off to faraway places to enage in commercial diplomacy. Three of the highest profile travellers have been Illinois Gov. George Ryan, California Gov. Gray Davis and Minnesota Gov. Jesse Ventura, but they've had lots of company visiting foreign shores. For more information, click on

Statehouse Reporters Share Info At Groundbreaking Conference

More than 100 statehouse reporters, editors and broadcasters gathered in Denver last month to swap professional tips and story ideas at the first conference of its kind for members of the news media who cover state government. For a comprehensive report on the meeting, which gave birth to a new national association of statehouse journalists, click on

States, Cities Tussle With Banks Over ATM Surcharges

A recently approved San Francisco referendum has refocused attention on state and local efforts to ban Automatic Teller Machine (ATM) surcharges. Iowa and Connecticut have forbidden the fees altogether, moves that are being challenged in federal court, while Arkansas, Mississippi and Wyoming have set surcharge limits.

Republicans Face Test As Virginia's New Legislative Majority

For the first time ever, Republicans will completely control the Virginia legislature when it convenes in January. GOP gains in the November election give the party a golden opportunity to put its stamp on the Old Dominion. But in order to do this, Republican Gov. Jim Gilmore and his partners in the General Assembly must first prove they can govern.

Mississippi Legislators To Choose Governor Next Month

Nearly a month after the balloting, the outcome of the Mississippi governor's election is still officially undecided. So the state House of Representatives will select the winner on January 4. Democrat Ronnie Musgrove is almost certain to be the lawmakers' choice, but Republican Mike Parker seems determined to hold out until the bitter end.

Maine's King Makes Independence A Virtue

Thirty-one of the 50 governors are Republican, 17 are Democrats and two are neither. But the label "Independent" has not been much of an obstacle for Maine Gov. Angus King -- he was re-elected by a landslide in 1998. King shares the distinction of being outside the political mainstream with Minnesota's Reform Party Gov. Jesse Ventura. In this profile from Augusta, stateline.org examines how this lesser-known political maverick operates.

State Leaders Stymied On Agriculture Agenda At WTO Meeting

Several state leadersespecially those from agricultural statesattempted to use the World Trade Organization meeting as a way to open new markets in the international economy and lower existing tariffs on exported agricultural products. The pitch was never heard due to the turmoil on Seattle's streets.

Maine's Pleasant Political Problem: Fate Of Surplus

Maine legislators will have the happiest of political tasks when they reconvene in January -- deciding what to do with a budget surplus that may very well top $300 million. Democrats and Republicans are divided on whether to spend the money on pressing needs or rebate it to the taxpayers. And Independent Gov. Angus King has his own ideas.

Priorities 2000: A Kentucky View

Making the state tax system fairer, improving education, protecting the environment and providing more and better mental health services -- these are among Kentucky Gov. Paul Patton's priorities in the coming 12 months. More on Patton's year 2000 agenda -- in his own words.

Mississippi Lawmakers Make Musgrove State's Governor

Mississippi's House of Representatives kicked off its 2000 legislative session Tuesday by making Democrat Ronnie Musgrove the Magnolia State's new governor.

Priorities 2000: A Utah View

When Utah's legislature convenes later this month, Gov. Mike Leavitt will be pressing for more education reform. Leavitt, a second-term Republican and chairman of the National Governors' Association, has proposed that 95 percent of the state's new money be earmarked for education and has called for more accountability from everyone involved in the state's school system. For more on Leavitt's agenda -- in his own words.

Vermont Gov Skirts Gay Rights in State of State Speech

Amid beefed up security at the State House, Gov. Howard Dean delivered his yearly "state of the state" address to the Vermont General Assembly Tuesday and appeared to downplay one of the most controversial issues of the coming session -- gay rights. But he repeatedly expressed his commitment to state sponsored health care programs.

Kentucky State of the Commonwealth Address 2000

FRANKFORT, Kentucky - Jan. 4 - Following is the text of Gov. Paul Patton's 2000 State of the Commonwealth Address: Speaker Richards, President Williams and members of the General Assembly, Justice Lambert and members of the Judiciary, Governor Henry and other members of the Executive, distinguished members of Kentu

New York State of the State Address 2000

ALBANY, New York - Jan. 5 - Following is the partial text of New York Gov. George Pataki's 2000 State of the State Address: Chief Judge Kaye, honorable members of the Court of Appeals, Lieutenant Governor Mary Donohue, Attorney General Spitzer, Comptroller McCall, Majority Leader Bruno, Speaker Silver, Leader F

Vermont State of the State Address 2000

MONTPELIER, Vermont - Jan. 4 - Following is the full text of Gov. Howard Dean's 2000 State of the State Address: Mr. President, Mr. Speaker, members of the General Assembly and fellow Vermonters: Calvin Coolidge returned to his Plymouth homestead in 1920 and proclaimed: "Vermont is my birthright. Here one

California State of the State Address 2000

SACRAMENTO, California - Jan. 5 - Following is the full text of Gov. Gray Davis' 2000 State of the State Address: Lieutenant Governor Bustamante, Speaker Villaraigosa, President Pro Tempore Burton, distinguished Members of the Legislature, my fellow Constitutional Officers, honorable Justices of the Supreme Court,

America's Newest Governor Gets Delayed Start

Mississippi's new Gov. Ronnie Musgrove starts from behind when he takes office next Tuesday -- the state House of Representatives ratified Musgrove's election just this week after he and former Rep. Mike Parker, his Republican opponent, finished in a near-draw in the November election. What's ahead for the newest Democrat in a Deep South governor's mansion? Click on

Colorado State of the State Address 2000

DENVER, Colorado - Jan. 6 - Following is the partial text of Gov. Bill Owens' 2000 State of the State Address: President Powers, Speaker George, Honorable Senators and Representatives, distinguished guests, my fellow Coloradans: I am honored today to report that the State of Colorado is healthy and vibrant. Our

Arizona State of the State Address 2000

PHOENIX, Arizona - Jan. 10 - Following is the full text of Gov. Jane Hull's 2000 State of the State Address: Thank you President Burns, Speaker Groscost, Minority Leaders Brown and McLendon, Honorable Senators and Representatives, distinguished guests and all Arizonans. Good afternoon and thank you for your war

Kansas State of the State Address 2000

TOPEKA, Kansas - Jan. 11 - Following is the full text of Gov. Bill Graves' 2000 State of the State Address: Mr. Speaker, Mr. President, Madama Chief Justice, Members of the Legislature and fellow Kansans: While we entered the year 2000 amid greater than usual celebration, I suspect for most Kansans it was a new

Tax Cut Fever Grips Maryland Lawmakers

Maryland's General Assembly begins a four-month session Wednesday, and the biggest issue facing the lawmakers is how to dispose of an unprecedented $1 billion budget surplus. But there are other items on the agenda as well, including gun control, land use and growth, and managed healthcare reform. For more on this, click on

Iowa Condition of the State Address 2000

DES MOINES, Iowa - Jan. 11 - Following is the partial text of Gov. Thomas Vilsack's 2000 Condition of the State Address: Thank you, Madame president, Mr. Speaker, thank you members of the general assembly, thank you distinguished guests and ladies and gentlemen. After a welcome like that from both sides of

Budget Squeeze Snarls Louisiana Gov's Agenda

Louisiana Gov. Mike Foster started his second term Monday after he and seven other statewide elected officials and the new Legislature were sworn in at Baton Rouge ceremonies. The Republican governor has an ambitious agenda for his next four years, but a budget squeeze brought on by smaller than expected tax collections may make it hard to realize.

Mississippi Inaugural Address 2000

JACKSON, Mississippi - Jan 11 - Following is the text of Gov. David Ronald Musgrove's 2000 Inaugural Address: When we ordered the weather for today, we had no idea the Lord would bless us with hot weather. But compared to those tremendous events that I've participated (in) in times past, I will take the hot we

New Jersey State of the State Address 2000

TRENTON, New Jersey - Jan. 11 - Following is the partial text of Gov. Christine Todd Whitman's 2000 State of the State Address: Mr. President, Mr. Speaker, Madam Chief Justice, distinguished members of the Legislature, honored guests, fellow New Jerseyans: Let me begin with a word of thanks to some special

Indiana State of the State Address 2000

INDIANAPOLIS, Indiana - Jan. 12 - Following is the full text of Gov. Frank O'Bannon's 2000 State of the State Address: Good evening, fellow Hoosiers, colleagues and friends. Speaker Gregg, Senator Garton, Representative Mannweiler, Senator Young, Chief Justice Shepard and Chief Judge Sharpnack, leaders all, thank