Stateline Stories

Governors Ask Lawmakers to Prevent Future Shootings

The recent mass shootings in Colorado and Connecticut reshaped governors’ legislative agendas this year, and many used their once-a-year legislative addresses to ask lawmakers to take up gun control, mental health treatment and school safety.

Courts Embrace Technology, Advocacy To Stay Afloat

Investing in technology has helped state courts to better weather the recession, according to a group of state chief justices, court administrators and legislators who met in Washington, D.C. on Thursday (November 15).

Democrats Play Defense in Governors’ Races

The race for New Hampshire governor has the hallmarks of the biggest gubernatorial races this fall: heavy involvement from outside groups, a national contest stealing the spotlight and messages that echo themes from this year’s presidential campaigns.

Mumps outbreak tests pandemic plans

State officials in the Midwest are using an outbreak of mumps to test emergency health plans. The real-life exercise is critical for health officials, who have struggled to ready their systems for a possible flu pandemic in the near future.

Three Governors Face Possible Senate Picks

Stateline.org's coverage from the 2008 national conventions. Updated throughout the day. Barack Obama's selection of Joseph R. Biden Jr. as his running mate in November's presidential election has put a third governor on notice that he or she may be called upon to name a new U.S. senator once the next commander-in-chief is known.

Who Would Replace Biden, Obama, McCain in Senate?

Aug. 27, 12 noon, EDTAmong the many undercurrents at the Democratic National Convention this week is talk of the party's rising stars. Oregon Secretary of State Bill Bradbury, for example, made news on Tuesday when he announced he is likely to run for governor in 2010, when the state's current chief executive, Democrat Ted Kulongoski, must give up the seat. Rancher-turned-governor Brian Schweitzer of Montana also attracted attention Tuesday when he delivered a crowd-pleasing attack on Republican presidential nominee John McCain in a high-visibility speaking slot just ahead of Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton (D). Among the most interesting subplots of the convention is speculation over who would replace Barack Obama and Joseph R. Biden Jr. in the U.S. Senate if the two Democrats are successful in November. Gov. Rod Blagojevich (D) of Illinois and Gov. Ruth Ann Minner (D) of Delaware would appoint replacements for Obama and Biden, and the rumors over the candidates' potential substitutes are already flying. Of course, Arizona Gov. Janet Napolitano (D) also could be called on to choose a Senate replacement if McCain wins the White House. Find out which potential Senate substitutes are being mentioned in Arizona, Delaware and Illinois by reading Stateline.org's Three governors face possible Senate picks. -John Gramlich Comments

State Reporters on the Big Stories

Statehouse reporters from across the country are keeping tabs on their home-state politicians' attempts to snatch a piece of the national spotlight in Denver during the Democratic National Convention.

Federal Spending Plan Slashes Anti-Crime Grants

Law enforcement officials across the country are lambasting the federal spending plan approved by President Bush on Dec. 26, warning that a 67-percent decrease in funding for targeted state and local criminal justice initiatives imperils public safety.

States Ease Financing for Energy-Efficient Upgrades

Several states are experimenting with an “on-bill” loan financing program that aims to spur investment in energy efficiency for homes and businesses — even for owners who lack capital.

Census Bureau Reports on States Tax Burden

If you live in one of these five states -- Connecticut, Hawaii, Delaware, Minnesota and Massachusetts you can boast, or complain, that you shoulder the heaviest tax burden in the nation.

Gubernatorial Candidates, Alabama-Kentucky

A comprehensive list of gubernatorial candidates in Alabama through Kentucky.

Debate Continues Over Abortion Waiting Periods

Four state legislatures are debating whether to follow the lead of 14 states that impose a waiting period on women who want an abortion, but pro-choice opponents blocked the measure in Colorado, Iowa and Virginia this year. States where controversial legislation remains an issue are Alabama, Alaska, Delaware and Minnesota.

State AGs Fight Teen Smoking—Onscreen

More than 30 attorneys general are mounting a campaign to add anti-smoking ads to the beginning of films in which actors light up onscreen. The bid to fight teen smoking was prompted by a study that showed a marked increase in smoking among children who watch movie characters puffing away.

Newest States in the Union Get top Billing

With Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin's addition to the Republican national ticket, all of the last three states admitted to the Union - Hawaii, Alaska and Arizona - can boast of being the home to major party candidates in this presidential election.

Report: Women govs get high marks

Women running for governor still have to work harder than men, but once elected, voters think female governors are better at getting things done and solving problems than their male counterparts, new research released Nov. 29 shows.

Nine States Hold Primaries Today

Voters in nine states participate in primaries today, with some of the most closely watched races for state office taking place in Arizona, Minnesota and Wisconsin, where gubernatorial and attorney general races will be decided.

More States Climb On Electric Deregulation Bandwagon

Arkansas, New Jersey, New Mexico, Maryland, Ohio, Texas, Virginia and Delaware passed laws in 1999 that deregulate their electric utilities, bringing to 23 the number of states that now embrace the policy. But not everyone is ready to take the leap. Nebraska Gov. Mike Johanns appeared before Congress to state his misgivings about opening his state's electric industry to retail competition. To learn more, click on

Governors' Inaugurations Take on Frugal Airs

President George W. Bush's inauguration took center stage in the nation's political arena, drawing most of the 28 Republican governors to Washington, D.C. But 11 recently elected governors threw inaugural parties of their own this month, each bringing his or her own style to the occasion, from collecting aid for tsunami survivors to a gala that garnered a visit from Elvis.

Could a Recount of Prisoners Affect Elections?

Four states now count prisoners at their last known home address rather than where they’re incarcerated. Could this affect election outcomes?

States Budget Crunch Forcing Mid-Year Tuition Hikes

State budget crunches are forcing public universities across the country to take the rare step of hiking tuition midway through their academic years. Tuition hikes range from 4.6 percent at the University of Connecticut to 13 percent at Virginia Tech.

Lt. Govs More Than Spare Tires, Study Shows

When a lieutenant governor shakes hands with the boss, a couple of fingers check the governors pulse -- because, as an old joke goes, no pulse equals a promotion. The joke stems from conventional wisdom, which holds that, like the U.S. vice president, the main duty of whoever occupies the number two state job is to take over if the state's numero uno dies or becomes disabled. But a new study by a Georgia political science professor argues that conventional wisdom is wrong.

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.

Budget Deadline Looms Large in 10 States

The clock is ticking in 10 states that still have not adopted budgets for the fiscal year that begins July 1, with an eleventh-hour showdown threatening a partial government shutdown in Minnesota. Some - but not all - of those states are expected to wrap up their budget process this week.

Death Penalty Rulings Raise Issues For Lawmakers

The Colorado Legislature will convene in special session July 8 in order to bring state law into line with a U.S. Supreme Court ruling striking down the authority of judges to impose sentencing in death penalty cases. At least four other states directly affected by the decision may have to hold special sessions as well.

Oh Say, Is That Banner Made in the U.S.A.?

Lawmakers in 10 states have taken steps to require that American flags bought with state funds be manufactured in this country. While not all the legislation has passed, one state's new law even bans the sale of foreign-made American flags in that state.

Furor Over Senate Seat Not Unique to Illinois

Allegations that Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich (D) offered to sell President-elect Barack Obama's U.S. Senate seat have fueled calls for state lawmakers to strip the governor of his appointment power and hold a special election instead. But the scandal in Illinois is far from the first time that the process of replacing a U.S. senator has generated political intrigue.

Governors Promote Employment for People With Disabilities

A yearlong initiative at the National Governors Association examines the roles that states and businesses can play in finding jobs for people with disabilities.

Northeastern States Seek Terrorist-Intelligence Sharing

Homeland security officials in 10 northeastern states want to establish intelligence-sharing centers that would better disseminate terrorist-related information between federal law enforcement and local police officers. Mark Cohen, who heads the New York State Office of Public Security, said the ability to share intelligence in real time is the most critical component for homeland security in the states.

Delaware Votes to Legalize Gay Marriage

The Delaware legislature approved a same-sex marriage bill Tuesday, repealing the state’s ban on the unions and making it the 11th state, plus D.C., to approve gay marriage.

Delaware State of the State Address 2013

DOVER, Delaware -- Jan. 17 -- Following is the prepared text of Gov. Jack Markell's (D) 2013 State of the State Address:

Downwind Delaware Seeks Relief From Cross-State Pollution

Delaware’s top air regulator has challenged federal officials to find a way to limit harmful pollution blowing across state lines.

Republicans Win Big in North Carolina Governor’s Race But Struggle Elsewhere

Despite heavy spending by outside groups in nearly a dozen races for governor, the partisan mix of Democrats and Republicans leading states appeared to change only slightly as a result of Tuesday’s elections.

With New Resources, Delaware Looks to Crack Down on Child Abuse

Governor Jack Markell signed legislation aiming to boost Delaware’s ability to track child abuse — the culmination of more than two years of effort to close gaps in a system that enabled a prominent doctor to abuse children for years.

Delaware State of the State Address 2011

DOVER, Delaware - Jan. 20 - Following is the prepared text of Gov. Jack Markell's (D) 2011 state of the state address: Lt. Governor Denn, President Pro Tem DeLuca, Speaker Gilligan, members of the 146th General Assembly, statewide elected officials, members of the Judiciary, members of the Cabinet, State employees

Delaware State of the State Address 2010

DOVER, Del. - Jan. 21- Following is the prepared text of Gov. Jack Markell's (D) 2010 state of the state address: Lt. Governor Denn, President Pro Tem DeLuca, Speaker Gilligan, members of the 145th General Assembly, other statewide elected officials, members of the Judiciary, members of the Cabinet, our State empl

States, Feds Poised to Write New Chapter in Public Safety Communications

As a plan for a national emergency network takes shape, many questions remain unanswered.

Delaware State of the State Address 2009

DOVER, Del. - April 28 - Following is the prepared text of Gov. Jack Markell's (D) 2009 state of the state address: A Call to Action Lt. Governor Denn, President Pro Tem Adams, Speaker Gilligan, members of the 145th General Assembly, Chief Justice Steele and members of the Judiciary, other statewide elected

Delaware State of the State Address 2008

DOVER, Del. - Jan. 17 - Following is the prepared text of Gov. Ruth Ann Minner's (D) 2008 state of the state address: Click here to visit the governor's web site to listen to audio of the address. Lieutenant Governor Carney, President Pro Tem Adams, Speaker Spence, members of the 144th General Assembly, members

Delaware State of the State Address 2007

DOVER, Del., Jan. 18 - Following is the prepared text of Gov. Ruth Ann Minner's (D) 2007 state of the state address: Lieutenant Governor Carney, President Pro Tem Adams, Speaker Spence, members of the 144th General Assembly, members of the Delaware judiciary, other elected officials, members of my Cabinet, state empl

Delaware State of the State Address 2005

DOVER, Delaware, Feb. 1, 2005 - Following is the text of Gov Ruth Ann Minner's 2005 state of the sttate address: Lieutenant Governor Carney, President Pro Tem Adams, Speaker Spence, members of the 143rd General Assembly, members of the Delaware judiciary, other elected officials, members of my Cabinet, state emplo

Delaware State of the State Address 2004

DOVER, Delaware - Jan. 22 - Following is the text of Gov. Ruth Ann Miner's 2004 state of the state address: Lieutenant Governor Carney, President Pro Tem Adams, Acting Speaker Oberle, members of the 142nd General Assembly, members of the Delaware judiciary, members of my Cabinet, state employees, distinguished gue

Delaware State of the State Address 2003

DOVER, Delaware - Jan. 23 - Following is the full text of Delaware Gov. Ruth Ann Minner's 2003 State of the State Address. Lieutenant Governor Carney, President Pro Tem Adams, Speaker Spence, members of the 142nd General Assembly, members of the Delaware judiciary, members of my Cabinet, distinguished guests, my f

Delaware State of the State Address 2002

DOVER, Delaware - Jan. 17 - Following is the text of Gov. Ruth Ann Minner's 2002 State of the State Address: Good afternoon. Lt. Gov. Carney, Majority Leader Adams, President Pro Tem Sharp, Speaker Spence, members of the 141st General Assembly, members of the Delaware judiciary, members of my Cabinet, distinguished

Delaware State of the State Address 2001

DOVER, Delaware - Feb. 2 - Following is the text of Gov. Ruth Ann Minner's 2001 State of the State Address: Lieutenant Governor Carney, President Pro Tem Sharp, Speaker Spence, members of the 141st General Assembly, members of the Delaware judiciary, members of my Cabinet, distinguished guests, my family and my fel

Delaware State of the State Address 2000

DOVER, Delaware - Jan. 27 - Following is the text of Gov. Tom Carper's 2000 State of the State Address: Ladies and gentlemen, I am proud to report to you today that the state of our state in many respects has never been better as we enter this new Century. While plenty of challenges lie ahead, we are richly blesse

2004 Governors' Races

Here is a complete rundown of candidates in the nation's 11 governors' races.

First State Last on 2008 Drunken Driving Law

Delaware is the last state in the nation to resist cracking down further on drunken drivers by lowering the blood-alcohol level that determines intoxication. Other holdout states -- Colorado and Minnesota -- joined the rest of the country last month in enacting laws to lower the blood-alcohol concentration threshold to .08 percent from .10 percent. Delaware is jeopardizing millions of dollars in federal highway construction funds if state lawmakers don't lower the limit this session. Opponents of .08 argue states' rights.

Delaware Launches Model Anti-Cancer Initiative

At a time when health care spending is an enormous drain on most states coffers, Delaware is doubling its funding for an ambitious cancer initiative that stands out as an example of novel health coverage on a tight budget.

Primaries Settle Slates of Open Governor Seats

Tuesdays primary results filled in the final blanks in the slate of candidates running for governor in 11 states. In five states, the race is wide open because incumbents arent competing in the general election. Here's a complete roster of governors matchups this election year.

Elections Will Bring Five Freshmen Governors

A Navy reserve officer who shipped out to Afghanistan weeks after the Sept. 11 attacks and a millionaire businessman whose family invented the clamshell container for McDonalds Big Mac are among the newcomers competing to join the nations corps of governors on Election Day. At least five freshmen governors will be elected this November in 11 gubernatorial races across the country.

Delaware Program Seeks to Help Ex-Cons Adjust

Delaware will launch a prisoner reentry program next month aimed at reducing the number of former prisoners who commit new crimes and end up back in prison. The three-year pilot program, created with a $2 million federal grant, could potentially save the state millions of dollars a year and reduce crime by helping ex-convicts receive the services they need to successfully re-enter society, state officials said.

Delaware, Florida Move to Restrict Smoking

Delaware recently became the second state to ban smoking in the workplace, following Californias landmark legislation in 1994, and Florida is expected to follow suit soon. The passage of Delaware's ban surprised opponents, who thought the issue wouldnt resonate beyond the West Coast.

States See Fourth Quarter Tax Revenue Slowdown

States had a prosperous year overall in 2000 with record surpluses and tax revenue growth. But there were signs of weakening economies in many states as the year drew to a close, and a new report suggests a major slowdown in tax collections could just be the tip of the iceberg.

'You've Come a Long Way'

This has been a record year for women politicians. Five of the nation's governors are women, the highest percentage in American history and at least 23 female gubernatorial hopefuls are eyeing the 37 gubernatorial seats up for grabs in November 2002. In a number of states, for the first time, female Republicans and Democrats could be squaring off against each other in a bid for executive office.

On The Record: Delaware Gov. Tom Carper

Tiny Delaware, 49th in size and 45th in population, rarely gets noticed for its efforts to protect natural resources. But as Gov. Tom Carper points out, his state has quietly taken advantage of its comparative coziness to earn a national reputation for achievement among planners, conservationists and most recently the National Governors Association. For the full text of an interview with Carper, click on

Delaware's New Gov Once A Typist in State's Top Office

Ruth Ann Minner is quite a woman. She's the first woman to serve in a leadership position in Delaware's House of Representatives, the state's first woman lieutenant governor and in January, she will be the first woman to serve as governor. The 65-year old Milford native's rise to the pinnacle of Delaware politics is truly a modern day Horatio Alger story. Her remarkable journey started 28 years ago when she was working as a typist in the governor's office.

States Increasingly Unprepared For Recession, Study Warns

Five of eight states that in early 1999 had sufficient financial reserves to weather a recession have since lost those cushions due to tax cuts, according to a Center on Budget and Policy Priorities study.

Drought Worsens, States Take Emergency Measures

The governors of New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland and Delaware have ordered water rationing and other mesaures to deal with the drought. U.S. Agriculture Secretary Dan Glickman this week designated West Virginia and other parts of the eastern seaboard disaster areas due to excessive heat and lack of rain, making farmers in those areas eligible to apply for emergency loans when drought-related losses are calculated at season's end. For more information, click on

Delaware, Tennessee Legislatures Called Into Special Session

Education and tax reform are the topics of legislative special sessions in Delaware and Tennessee. Delaware's Democratic Gov. Thomas Carper summoned lawmakers back to work to consider his controversial plan to raise the standards and accountability required of teachers in his state, while Tennessee's Republican Gov. Don Sundquist is pushing for action on a tax reform plan. Meanwhile, Massachusetts legislators remain mired in a budget stalemate.

Public Housing Agencies Experiment With Time Limits

Delaware is one of the first states in the country to impose time limits on some residents of public housing. By next November, most tenants in the state's two southern counties will have three years to get their finances in order and make way for other families. It's all part of a national pilot project in 23 cities and counties across the country reminiscent of the early years of welfare reform. For residents in Delaware, however, time limits are not so much the issue. Their concern is how the new policies will be handled by a bureaucracy they regard as profoundly uncaring.

States Buying in Bulk to Stretch Rx Dollars

A growing number of states are using an age-old bargain shopping strategy buying in bulk to save money on prescription drugs. States are looking within and beyond their borders for ways to leverage the combined buying power of consumers, such as state employees, retirees and Medicaid patients, to negotiate better prices from drug makers.

State Websites Celebrate 10th Birthday

A decade or so after the first states posted their first simple homepages on the Internet, state government websites have made quantum leaps in delivering access to residents. Delaware, the First State, was the first to move into "podcasting" this year, quickly followed by others. An annual contest for state websites named Delaware's No. 1, followed by the websites of Tennessee, Indiana, Washington and Virginia.

Delaware Gov Defends Common Core

A handful of states are reconsidering their pledges to adopt the common national standards in English and math, citing concerns about federal intrusion into the states. Supporters say that’s misguided.

'The First State' Gets First-Rate Attention with Biden on the Ticket

Aug. 26, 9:00 a.m. EDT DENVER - Barack Obama's selection of Delaware's Sen. Joe Biden as his running mate has put the state and its Democratic chairman in an unusual position - the spotlight. "For once, the size of the state or particularly geographic location isn't the [deciding factor]", said Delaware Party Chairman John D. Daniello, as his state's delegation gathered for its first breakfast during the convention. "It vindicates Joe in terms of his ability and his work and his performance as a senator … It vindicates us . Just because we are a small state doesn't' mean we don't have people with ability." Daniello said he expects Biden's sudden national prominence will make his job as state party chairman just a tad better. "It will be easier to throw events and rally people to our cause" with Biden and his state garnering so much attention. He said he received more than a half dozen calls from Republican friends "who might just vote Democratic just because of the pride they feel in our ticket." The economy and war in Iraq are top issues Daniello said he thinks an Obama-Biden administration will dramatically change. "Our own attorney general, who by the way is the son of the vice presidential nominee, is on his way to Iraq," he noted. Delaware's attorney general, Beau Biden, is a captain in the National Guard and is being deployed to Iraq in October. As the Delaware delegates finished their breakfast and headed downtown to the convention for a day of caucuses and rallies and the first night on primetime TV, Molly K. Jurusik, executive director of the Delaware Democratic Party, shouted "You're going to really be excited to see where we are sitting." The state of the vp pick is rewarded with a coveted front and center spot on the convention floor.AFTER THE JUMP: Audio from the Stateline.org interview with Daniello -- Pamela M. Prah Comments

States Warned to Prep for Election Glitches

Eight years after voting irregularities marred the 2000 presidential election, most states still are not as prepared as they should be for Election Day glitches, from machine breakdowns to a shortage of emergency ballots, according to a new report by voter advocacy groups.

Dems Take Full Control in 3 More States

(Updated 5:00 p.m. EST, Nov. 10, 2008)Democrats emerged from Election Day gaining control over more state governments, and they now dominate both the legislature and governor's office in 17 states, compared to just eight for Republicans. With both Democrats and Republicans scoring historic victories, big policy changes could be on the way.

Economy Trims Some Govs' Inauguration Plans

In a bleak economy that has led even some of the most financially stable states to grow uneasy, some governors who were elected or re-elected in November are skipping the typical inaugural balls and toning down the glitz at their swearing-in ceremonies to cut costs.

Delaware State of the State Address 2012

DOVER, Delaware - Jan. 19 - Following is the prepared text of Gov. Jack Markell's (D) 2012 state of the state address: Lt. Governor Denn, President Pro Tem DeLuca, Speaker Gilligan, members of the 146th General Assembly, other elected officials, members of the Judiciary, members of the Cabinet, ou

Victory Laps in Delaware, Tennessee

TODAY'S TAKE: Delaware and Tennessee officials rejoiced on Monday (March 29) after they were proclaimed winners in the first round of the Race to the Top, a federal program intended to revamp the nation's K-12 schools by handing out billions of dollars in grants. Delaware will receive about $100 million; Tennessee will get about $500 million.More than 40 jurisdictions applied for a slice of the federal money, and the fact that only two states won stunned many education experts.

Delaware Set to Approve Medical Marijuana

TODAY'S TAKE: Delaware soon will become the 16th state to authorize medical marijuana, despite a recent warning from the federal government that everyone from licensed growers to state regulators in those states could face legal action.

Shaving Costs With Reverse Auctions

It's been a decade since Pennsylvania became the first state to use a technology that is like eBay in reverse to save money on government purchases. But despite the potential to create big savings, only a few states have taken advantage of reverse auctions.

With Delaware Law, the Battle on 'Bath Salts' Continues

PUBLIC SAFETY BEAT: States have been struggling to keep up with the ever-changing chemical makeup of the latest drug to hit the streets.

Delaware River Basin Commission Postpones Vote on 'Fracking' Plan

ENERGY & ENVIRONMENT BEAT: A vote over whether to allow a controversial drilling method in a key East Coast watershed has been postponed. Energy companies say thousands of jobs are on the line. But environmentalists fear the drinking water for millions of people could be threatened.

Abuses in Delaware Weatherization Program Revealed

ENERGY & ENVIRONMENT BEAT: Delaware's troubled energy efficiency efforts ... a deal to remove protections for wolves ... Iowa leads in wind power and other energy and environment news.

Summary of the Delaware State of the State Address

Delaware Gov. Jack Markell (D) highlighted during his state of the state speech Jan. 20 his administration's efforts to curb state spending and promote jobs, and he promised to do more of the same.

States Fine-Tune New Welfare Programs

Since stateline.org last looked at state welfare policies in our May 25th story: States Refine Welfare Programs As Pace Of Reform Slows, several have announced changes. Some are developing programs for people with serious problems such as drug abuse, learning disabilities and histories of domestic violence. In Ohio, legislators will return from summer recess to work out details of a merger between the two agencies that run the state's welfare and jobs programs.

Northeastern States To Drastically Cut Emissions Cap

Nine Northeastern states will drastically cut the region’s carbon cap under proposed changes to the region’s cap-and- trade program, they announced Thursday.

Maryland Repeals Death Penalty

Maryland has executed five people since the Supreme Court reinstated the death penalty in 1976. But nobody else will be sentenced to death in the Old Line State.

Maryland Repeals Death Penalty, Sixth State in Six Years

Maryland became the sixth state in as many years to repeal the death penalty. But the fate of the state’s five remaining death row inmates is up to Governor Martin O'Malley.

New Year Brings Slew of New State Laws

New laws for 2011 include further state bans on the practice of texting while driving.

Massachusetts Budget Near, Delaware Sets Special Session

Massachusetts lawmakers appear poised to approve a state budget after a three and one-half month long stalemate. Senate President Thomas Birmingham and House Speaker Thomas Finneran announced last Wednesday they finally agreed on a spending plan after months of deliberations that froze millions in new spending since July 1, the start of the 2000 fiscal year. And in Delaware, lawmakers are preparing for a special session on education.

States Take The Lead On Minimum Wage

The movement toward a higher minimum wage accelerated this year as four states voted to set wages above the federal floor of $5.15 an hour. Ten states and the District of Columbia now require employers to pay more than the federal minimum. As more states raise wage levels, they pressure Congress to act. While a federal increase is unlikely this year, analysts predict a minimum wage hike in 2000.

Cape Wind Decision Propels Other Offshore Projects

Now that the nation's most contentious coastal wind farm has the federal government's blessing, other states are hoping their own projects will be generating power soon.

States Look to Raise Standards for New Teachers

Would paying teachers more improve the quality of teaching candidates? Some states are considering that and tougher admission standards at education programs.

With New Fiscal Year Looming, Government Shutdowns Unlikely

A year after Minnesota’s three-week shutdown, New Jersey is the state that appears at greatest risk of starting the fiscal year without a budget.

New Jersey E-ZPass System A Financial Debacle

New Jerseys electronic toll collection system may save motorists time, money and fuel, but lawmakers and transportation authorities are learning that the E-ZPass system will not pay for itself.

States Ponder Sports Betting as Source of New Revenue

Right now, it's illegal to bet on a sports event in most of the country. Making it legal could bring states significant tax revenue - but there are serious obstacles in the way. New Jersey voters will consider the matter next week.

As Some States Close Highway Rest Stops, Others See Roadside Revenue

In the South and West, providing drivers a sanctuary on the Interstate costs states dollars they don't have. But many Northeastern states make lots of money by commercializing rest areas. The difference is due to an obscure federal law that critics want to change.

States On Guard For West Nile Virus

This week, New York City renews its war on the West Nile virus -- the mosquito-borne disease that killed 7 New Yorkers and sickened 55 others without warning last summer. As the city gears up to ward off another outbreak, states on the Eastern Seaboard and in the southeast are putting plans into place to guard against the virus as well.

State Hiring Freezes Tend to Melt Away

It's easy for a governor to announce a halt to new state employment. It's very difficult to maintain it.

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

In Case of Attack, Who Would Run the Legislature?

An obscure Cold War statute would allow South Carolina legislators to designate successors in case lawmakers were wiped out in an attack on the United States. Problem is no one now serving in the General Assembly has submitted a list of emergency successors. At least three other states have similar succession laws on the books.

State Laws Allow Adoptees To Unlock The Past

Last month, the Tennessee Supreme Court upheld a law giving adoptees 21 and older access to their birth certificates and adoption records. In Oregon, a first-of-a kind ballot initiative guaranteeing the same right is bottled up in a state appeals court. Over the years, requests to open these records have spawned pitched battles involving adoptees, birth mothers wishing to remain anonymous and anti-abortion advocates who fear that open records laws will make more women choose abortion over adoption.

States Embracing Use of 'Green Power'

Demand for "green power" -- electricity generated by renewable energy sources such as wind and water -- is slowly rising. The movement owes its momentum to state policies. Texas, for example, recently passed an electric utility deregulation law stipulating that a certain percentage of Lone Star electricity must be made with green power. For more information, click on

Few Governors Tout Bold Initiatives

In his state of the state address last month, Vermont Gov. James H. Douglas said that the state should track convicted drug dealers the same way it does sexual predators, by publicizing their names and addresses. This proposal is one of only a handful of truly innovative programs proposed by governors in their state of the state addresses this year.

Despite Governor’s Push, Voting Rights for Felons Fails in Virginia

A House subcommittee chose not to take up legislation that would have amended the constitution to automatically restore those rights after nonviolent felons pay their debt to society.