Stateline Stories

Cheers! All 50 States Embrace the Home Brew Boom

As of July 1, all 50 states will allow aspiring brewers to make their own beer at home. But states are still figuring out how to regulate the popular hobby.

After Years of Defeats, Immigrants Win Big State Victories in 2013

Arizona’s immigration crackdown is a fresh memory for many, but now many states are passing immigrant-friendly laws. Find out what is driving the change.

Lawmakers Chew on Weighty Issues: ‘Whose shad fry is the best?’

Photo Slideshow: Lawmakers call time out to weigh delicious legislation.

After Expanding Coverage, Health Care Pioneer Seeks to Tame Costs

The Affordable Care Act will extend health care coverage to almost everybody. Now states are moving on to the next frontier in health care reform: containing costs. Once again, Massachusetts is taking the lead by putting its health care industry on an annual budget and requiring all insurers and medical providers to make detailed price lists available to the public.

The Latest in Office Supplies: Treadmills

Oregon state workers may test treadmill desks as a way to improve health and increase productivity.

Can Better Organization Produce More Graduates?

Salem, Ore – Governor John Kitzhaber has overhauled education to improve the state’s dismal graduation rate.

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.

Seizing Medicaid Expansion as a Means to Reform

Alabama aims to make its Medicaid program more efficient, before expanding it. Under consideration is a regional care plan developed in Oregon.

Issue To Watch: Immigration

Long-bottled-up bills that address state policies on whether to offer in-state tuition to undocumented students could become law this year, because of changes in party control of legislative chambers and changes in federal policy.

Old Money, New Decisions in Oregon

Almost a decade after balancing its budget with millions of dollars earned off the massive nationwide tobacco settlement reached in 1998, Oregon lawmakers have a second chance this year to put the settlement money to different use.

Oregon State of the State Address 2013

SALEM, Oregon -- Jan. 14 -- Following is the prepared text of Gov. John Kitzhaber's (D) 2013 State of the State Address

Oregon Lawmakers To Consider Nike Expansion in Special Session

Governor John Kitzhaber has asked lawmakers to convene in special session Friday to consider legislation aimed at guaranteeing that Nike will expand in Oregon rather than elsewhere.

Wildfire Epidemic Leaves States Searching for Answers

The West is getting hotter and drier and stoking more destructive fires. They have left fire control officials looking for ways to fight them more effectively with fewer dollars.

After Election Day Confusion, Hawaii Gov Pushes Full Mail-In Voting

On the heels of an Election Day plagued by long lines and mass confusion, Hawaii Governor Neil Abercrombie says he’s pushing for major changes to voting on the islands —mainly, the elimination of the traditional Election Day altogether.

Best of #StateReads: Why New Jersey’s Trains Flooded but New York’s Stayed Dry

This week’s extraordinary journalism about state government, tagged to #StateReads on Twitter.

Openly Gay Lawmakers Selected To Lead Chambers

Oregon Representative Tina Kotek is poised to join openly gay lawmakers in Colorado and Washington as a leader of a state legislative chamber.

Sunshine Overruns: Hawaii’s Solar Tax Credits Carry Soaring Price Tag

The widespread popularity of Hawaii’s solar energy incentive — and mass confusion over how to implement it — have dealt a blow to the state’s treasury and become a major topic in state politics.

Best of #StateReads: Michigan Term Limits Encourage Politicians To Go Professional

This week’s extraordinary journalism about state government, tagged to #StateReads on Twitter.

Best of #StateReads: Abuse Suits Against Scouts Hinge on State Laws

This week’s extraordinary journalism about state government, tagged to #StateReads on Twitter.

Oregon to Vote on Changing Unique Tax Refund

For many years, Oregon has been the only state in the country where tax revenue that exceeds what the state estimated it would collect is automatically refunded to taxpayers. For many years, much of Oregon’s political leadership has complained that

A New Battleground in 'Right to Die' Debate

Advocates of physician-assisted suicide are taking on entrenched opposition as they seek a high-profile victory in Massachusetts.

A Marijuana Revolt?

Colorado, Oregon and Washington voters will decide this November if they want to decriminalize and regulate marijuana production and possession, which could generate millions in state revenue. But any of these initiatives would put the states in conflict with federal law, which classifies marijuana as a controlled substance with no acceptable medical use.

Best of #StateReads: Dangerous Times in New Jersey Halfway Houses

This week’s extraordinary journalism about state government, tagged to #StateReads on Twitter.

As Washington Gridlock Persists, States Get Creative in Funding Renewable Energy

The federal government has drastically reduced its funding for renewable energy. States have come up with some unusual ways to try and replace it.

The Spending That Isn’t Counted

Most spending programs are easily traceable in state budgets. But tax incentives are not. Some legislators think they should be.

How Two State Tax Systems Have (and Haven’t) Shaped Metro Portland

Washington has no income tax. Oregon has no sales tax. In some ways, that matters a great deal for the regional economy. In some ways, it doesn’t.

Contention and Compromise in Virginia, Oregon Tied Chambers

The Virginia Senate and the Oregon House each had an equal number of Democrats and Republicans this year, but that's where the similarities ended.

Oregon Looks to Shrink Middle Management

An unusual mix of Republicans, Democrats and labor leaders are working together to restructure state government.

At Last, a State Budget Year When the Sky Is Not Falling

PART FIVE OF FIVE: After four years of epic budget woes, states are ready for an improved 2012. Some are even poised to add dollars back to programs they wish they never had to cut.

Oregon State of the State Address 2012

PORTLAND, Ore. - Jan. 13 - Following is the prepared text of Gov. John Kitzhaber's (D) 2012 state of the state address: Thank you for that kind introduction. I'm proud of the progress we have made during the past year. We have not shied away from tough decisions - on the budget, education and health car

Minimum Wage Set to Rise in Eight States

TODAY'S TAKE: Workers in eight states will see slightly larger paychecks beginning January 1, thanks to laws requiring minimum wages to rise with inflation.

Oregon Looks for Education Czar

EDUCATION BEAT: Oregon would join five other states - Florida, Iowa, Nebraska, New York and Pennsylvania - with a leader overseeing every level of education.

States Struggle to Update Toxic Chemical Regulation

Unchanged for 35 years, the U.S. Toxic Chemicals Safety Act has left federal regulators without the tools to investigate many chemicals that could endanger human health. That burden has fallen to states, which have enacted a patchwork of regulations that environmentalists, policymakers and industry leaders all consider inadequate.

Oregon Food Stamp Use Surges, Leads Nation

TODAY'S TAKE: New data from the U.S. Census Bureau show that nearly a fifth of all Oregon residents received food stamps between 2009 and 2010, the highest rate in the country.

Oregon Banks on Community Health Care

The state's new system is designed to be a throwback to the days of old-fashioned family doctors.

Several States Quick to Opt for No Child waivers

TODAY'S TAKE: Connecticut, Oregon, New Mexico and Wisconsin immediately said they would seek waivers from key requirements of the No Child Left Behind law, an option announced by the president on Friday (September 23).

Oregon Governor Stands Firm on Worker Health Care

TODAY'S TAKE: Oregon is one of a handful of states in which current state employees pay nothing toward health insurance for either individual or family plans. Governor John Kitzhaber wants to change that.

What Welfare Cutbacks Say About the Wisdom of Block Grants

Welfare isn't a big item in state budgets, but it's an easy one to go after because the states are in charge. Trimming Medicaid is much more complicated: The federal government has a veto.

After Standoff, Illinois Road Construction Continues

TRANSPORTATION BEAT: Illinois senators agree to back off in a budget fight that threatened to halt the state's summer road building season … Nevada clears the way for its first and only tollroad … Digital billboards could soon be legal in Missouri and Oregon, and other transportation news.

White House Objects to Indiana Planned Parenthood Law

HEALTH BEAT: Obama administration concerned about new Indiana Medicaid law… Texas cost-cutting proposal attracts federal scrutiny… Oregon raises hospital taxes, and other health care news.

Indiana Legislature Approves Sweeping School Voucher Bill

EDUCATION BEAT: Pupil vouchers on the way in Indiana ... Georgia cuts pre-kindergarten programs ... Oregon House considers new high school graduation requirements, and other state education news.

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.

A Three-Year College Degree in Ohio?

EDUCATION BEAT: Ohio governor wants colleges to offer three-year degrees ... Idaho ends its legislative session after approving three controversial education bills ... Oregon lawmakers want the governor to double as school superintendent and other education news from state governments.

Arkansas Asks Voters for Highway Money

TRANSPORTATION BEAT: Arkansas voters will get a chance to decide whether better roads are worth a tax increase ... Florida's decision to give back federal high-speed rail money has other states scrambling for the funds … Officials in the Northwest and Midwest explore public-private partnerships for new projects, and other transportation news.

Are 'Charter Universities' the Future of State-Funded Higher Ed?

With more budget cuts on the horizon, many flagship universities are warming to a new bargain with state government: In exchange for less state funding, they would get more say in running day-to-day operations as well as the ability to impose some tuition increases.

For Some States, Health Care Waivers Are a Big Deal

States like Vermont and Oregon, with ambitious health plans, stand to benefit if the Obama administration eases up on the rules.

Oregon, Washington Mull Electric Car Fees

ENERGY & ENVIRONMENT BEAT: Northwest states look to electric car drivers for transportation money ... Missouri loosens the rules on renewable energy ... The Green Bay Packers' other big win, and other energy and environment news.

Big States Staring at Big Corrections Cuts

PUBLIC SAFETY BEAT: California and Texas consider major changes to their prison systems … Illinois could join New Mexico and New Jersey as the only states to repeal the death penalty legislatively … the Massachusetts parole board resigns, and other public safety news.

A House Divided: Oregon Elects Two Speakers

TODAY'S TAKE: For the first time in its history, the Oregon House of Representatives is evenly divided. On Monday (January 10), members amicably decided to elect two speakers - one from each party - who will alternate control of the gavel every other day.

Oregon State of the State Address 2011

PORTLAND, Ore. - Jan. 10 - Following is the prepared text of Gov. John Kitzhaber's (D) 2011 state of the state address: So I guess none of you could get tickets to the game either. Before I begin I would like to pause to offer my heartfelt thanks, my own and on behalf of Oregon to Governor Ted Kulongoski. I don't

In Oregon, a New Health Care Debate Awaits

PORTLAND, Oregon - In Oregon, the health care debate is taking on a different twist. Incoming governor John Kitzhaber wants to "fundamentally change the way health care is organized and delivered" in his state. He spoke with Stateline recently to discuss his plans.

In New Year, Seven States to Hike Minimum Wage

Nine to twelve cents isn't a lot, but those small, automatically triggered increases in the minimum wage will provide a modest New Year's present for workers in a minority of states that automatically increase their minimum wage levels at the start of every year.

Republican to Advise Democrat Kitzhaber on Oregon Health Policy

TRANSITION WATCH: Oregon's new governor picks a Republican for a key post, Florida's incoming governor faces delays filling his administration, and more news of the historic shift in power in the states.

Kitzhaber Proposes 10-Year Budgeting

TRANSITION WATCH: Oregon's Governor-elect wants long-term fiscal planning, Iowa's new governor criticizes a key legislative leader, and other news of the historic shift in power in the states.

Despite Debt Fears, Voters OK Most State Bond Measures

Where borrowing was on the ballot Tuesday, voters usually said yes. Meanwhile, Colorado affirmed its ability to issue debt.

Early and Absentee Voting Erode Election Day Tradition

Polling day at the court house may be a revered institution of American democracy, but it's one that is steadily fading away.

The Not-So-Dependable Sales Tax

In a recession, people cut back on buying things they don't really need. States that depend heavily on sales tax revenue for their budgets have been hit hard as a result.

How Many Ex-Governors Will Win?

TODAY'S TAKE: In a campaign season marked by an anti-establishment mood, five former governors with a combined 40 years in office will be on the ballot next week, potentially bucking the trend. But at least one, Maryland Republican Robert Ehrlich, has substantial ground to make up. The others appear to be ahead or are locked in close contests.

The Buying and Selling of Legal Marijuana

Of the 14 states with medical marijuana laws on the books, half of them leave unresolved the question of how patients are supposed to get the seeds to grow their plants. Some state governments, which once were reticent to allow dispensaries, have started to reconsider.

More Bad Budget News in Oregon

TODAY'S TAKE: Revenues continue to fall off a cliff in Oregon. On Thursday (Aug. 26), the state economist announced a new $378 million shortfall in the current two-year budget. Meanwhile, corporations could receive a tax rebate despite the state's lack of money.

Oregon Tax Hikes Don't Stop Revenue Bleeding

When Oregon voters approved tax hikes on corporations and the wealthy in January, the move was supposed to help the state avoid big budget cuts. But an expected surge in revenue never materialized. As Oregon slashes funding for key programs, Republicans want to make sure Democrats pay a price at the polls in November.

Five Ex-Governors on Ballot in November

TODAY'S TAKE: Voters' choice of Roy Barnes in the Democratic primary for Georgia governor on Tuesday (July 20) means that all five former governors who are running for their old jobs this year will be on the ballot in November. What is less certain is how they will fare.

Will Oregon Voters Opt for Kitzhaber a Third Time?

Democrats don't usually lose in Oregon. But a season of voter anger - and an unusual Republican challenger - may be reason enough to place John Kitzhaber's comeback plans in some doubt.

Budget Shock in Oregon

TODAY'S TAKE: Oregonians made headlines in January when they approved $727 million in tax hikes on corporations and the wealthy. Supporters said the move was necessary to avoid perilous budget cuts to schools. But this week, Oregon fiscal analysts dropped a new bombshell on lawmakers and voters alike: Due to weak income tax collections, a fresh, $563 million hole has opened in the budget, and deep education cuts are likely.

Arizona Vote Muddies Anti-tax Narrative

TODAY'S TAKE: Voters in Oregon and Pennsylvania chose their major-party candidates for governor on Tuesday (May 18), while Arizona's electorate handed Governor Jan Brewer a significant victory by approving a temporary hike in the state sales tax. Paradoxically, the outcome in Arizona marked the second time this year - a year in which the Tea Party has become a potent political force - that a state's voters have opted for higher taxes.

New Meth Recipe Sidesteps State Laws

TODAY'S TAKE: A new method of making methamphetamine - a highly addictive street drug that has caused law enforcement and public health problems from Oregon to Kentucky - is circumventing tough state laws that had been making headway against production of the drug. The new method uses less of a key ingredient - pseudoephedrine - that states have made much harder to acquire.

Oregon Could Join California on Pot Vote

TODAY'S TAKE: California has attracted national attention for a November ballot measure that, if approved by voters, would legalize and tax marijuana. California's northern neighbor, Oregon, may have a similar measure on its ballot. The Oregon secretary of state's office has certified a petition drive that would decriminalize pot if its supporters gather enough signatures - and votes.

Oregon State of the State Address 2010

PORTLAND, Ore. - April 2- Following is the prepared text of Gov. Ted Kulongoski's (D) 2010 state of the state address. Thank you President Wiewel for your kind introduction. It is fitting that I deliver this state of the state address - which is my last - at a university campus. We are beginning to come out of a

Summary of the Oregon State of the State Address

Term-limited Oregon Governor Ted Kulogonski used his final state of the state speech to look back on his eight years in office - a period, he noted, that covered not one but two recessions. But Kulongoski, a Democrat, also April 2 called on lawmakers to take a longer view of the state's finances and make decisions to avoid what he called a "budgetary cliff" caused by the end of federal stimulus dollars and the exhaustion of the state's rainy day fund.

New Script for Sudafed?

Anyone in Oregon who wants to buy tablets of Sudafed or Claritin D must have a doctor's prescription to do so. Those who live in Oklahoma must submit to an instant online screening before they can walk out of a pharmacy with those products.The two states are taking aggressive but different approaches to a common and long-standing problem: the production of crystal meth, a highly addictive drug made with a decongestant found in several leading cold and allergy medicines, including Sudafed.Oregon's approach has alarmed the pharmaceuticals industry, which is lobbying hard in other states in favor of Oklahoma's approach - even offering to pay for it. Either way, the purchase of cold medicines by meth makers is likely to become much trickier.

A Crack in the Prison Door

The recession is forcing lawmakers in some states to search for savings in places that might have been unthinkable a few years ago, including in their prison systems. One of those states is Oregon, where lawmakers last year approved a measure that will result in about 3,500 inmates being released from prison earlier than scheduled.But a recent backlash over the law serves as a reminder of the political sensitivity surrounding "early releases" as a money-saving effort. California, Colorado, Illinois, Kentucky, Michigan and Wisconsin are among the other states that have recently accelerated prisoner releases or are considering doing so.

Oregon Voters Approve $727 Million Tax Hike

TODAY'S TAKE: For the first time since 1930, Oregon voters approved a general tax increase on Tuesday (Jan. 26), signing off on a plan to raise $727 million by targeting corporations and the wealthy.

Oregon Tax Vote Poses Fresh Test for Dems

A week after Massachusetts voters delivered a stunning blow to Democrats' legislative agenda in Washington, D.C., Oregonians on Tuesday (Jan. 26) will decide the fate of Democratic-led efforts to raise taxes on corporations and the wealthy in the state by $727 million.

Weekly Wrap: States, Locals Have Spent a Quarter of Stimulus Funds

A new federal report shows states and localities spent a quarter of their federal stimulus dollars. A budget-cutting to release prisoners in Oregon questioned. And credit-rating agencies draw harsh criticism from states but may escape new federal regulations.

Weekly Wrap: Recession Setting Records in Wisconsin, Oregon

Sales tax revenue drops for the first time in Wisconsin. Demand for food stamps and food boxes sets records in Oregon. Cigar-smoking Pennsylvania lawmakers reject tobacco tax increase.

Weekly Wrap: Recession Forcing Government Overhaul

Oregon, Louisiana launch review of government; Utah's four-day work week saves on energy costs; new pension report released.

Tracking the Recession: Stimulus Helps Revive Summer Youth Jobs programs

With many low-wage jobs snatched up by college graduates, senior citizens and laid-off workers of all ages, young job seekers have a less-than-30-percent chance of finding work this summer. But thanks to $1.2 billion in federal stimulus funds, states are revitalizing summer job programs to give disadvantaged youths a shot at finding a career.

Furloughs Cut Into State Services

With states facing a $121 billion shortfall in the next fiscal year, a growing number of them have turned to squeezing their workforce for savings, and effects both great and small will be felt.

Oregon State of the State Address 2009

SALEM, Ore. - Jan. 12 - Following is the prepared text of Gov. Ted Kulongoski's (D) 2009 state of the state address. Speaker Hunt, President Courtney, members of the 75th Legislative Assembly, Chief Justice Paul De Muniz, my colleagues, and fellow Oregonians across this great and blessed state. Welcome to a new ye

Nasty Judicial Races Renew Complaints

Another bruising campaign season in judicial elections has spurred calls for reform from advocacy groups, lawyers and others in the legal community, but fierce debate persists over how exactly state judges should be chosen.

State Budget Gaps Balloon to $97 Billion

Still reeling from high gas prices this summer and plummeting retirement savings this fall, Americans will soon be feeling the pinch in other ways - from increased tuition to potentially higher taxes, as states try to close some $97 billion in budget gaps over the next two years.

Three Western Governors Float Tax Hikes

Frequently the option of last resort, tax increases are on the table in California, Nevada and Oregon as more states try to confront budget problems and the ailing economy.

Watch Your (Official) Language

Missouri, a key presidential swing state and home to one of the most hotly contested gubernatorial races, will test what some see as voters' attitudes toward immigrants with a ballot measure to make English the only language of state government.

States Act to Stem Foreclosure Scams

The rise of home foreclosures has spawned an increase in scams that prey on people's desperation to save their homes. At least 18 states have enacted laws to target such schemes.

Oregon's Primary Unlike Any Other

Oregon Democrats are in the unfathomable position of voting in a still-contested presidential primary May 20, but their votes also stand out for another reason. Oregon stands alone as the only state where all the voting is done by mail. It is also one of six states that have contests for secretary of state this year - in Oregon's case, the No. 2 politician after the governor and the official in charge of overseeing that one-of-kind voting system.

WORTH NOTING: Voters' Guide Promotes Phone Sex

An Oregon voters' guide lists a very wrong number. California's governor insults rural legislators. And Pennsylvania considers selling wine in vending machines. In case you missed those stories this week, "Worth Noting" fills you in.

Oregon State of the State Address 2008

PORTLAND, Ore., March 21, 2008 -- The following is the prepared text of Gov. Ted Kulongoski's state of the state address: Thank you, Don, for your introduction. I also want to thank the members of the City Club of Portland for your civic engagement - and for giving me this forum to deliver my sixth State of the Stat

WORTH NOTING: Lawmaker Loses to a Cockroach

A Kansas lawmaker settles a lawsuit for accosting a cockroach-costumed protester. An Oklahoma official tries to stop Christmas gifts for juveniles in state custody. And the South Dakota Legislature schedules a more work-friendly session. In case you missed any of those stories this week, "Worth Noting" fills you in.

New Year ushers in new laws

At least 31 states will enforce new laws that take effect New Year's Day. So as you ring in the New Year, expect some facet of life to change, ranging from where you can smoke in Illinois to how much it costs to enter a strip club in Texas.

States make gift cards friendlier to consumer

Pleased with that $30 gift card you got for Christmas? Not so fast. Some cards come with expiration dates or maintenance fees that can make using them a hassle. But some states have made life a little easier by limiting those fees and expirations.

Digital Billboards Get Green Light

LOS ANGELES - As the federal government gives the go-ahead for digital billboards, states consider their safety and visual impact. Industry advocates support the new technology, while critics say the signs distract drivers and "clutter" the landscape.

Odd-year elections a preview for '08?(2)

What typically is a quiet, off-year election is anything but this year. Voters in Kentucky today (Nov. 6) will decide whether to oust their sitting governor. In three states, both parties have a fighting chance to wrest control of statehouse chambers. And school vouchers and stem cells are among 34 measures on the ballot.

Oregonians reconsider land-use measure

Three years ago, Oregonians voted to give themselves unprecedented property rights. Now the state's citizens are trying to decide whether to roll back those rights.

States, feds try to keep up with wildfires

With major wildfires burning in more than a dozen states and officials on high alert for more, authorities are scrambling to contain the blazes and keep new ones from igniting, despite unfavorable weather and strained resources.

Payday Lenders Catch Lawmakers' Attention

Legislators in Nevada, New Mexico and Oregon recently have clamped down on the short-term, high-interest lending industry, blaming it for saddling residents with dangerous levels of debt.

Sex Ed Landscape Shifting in States

While most states still stress abstinence in sex education, lately there has been a movement toward a comprehensive approach that also teaches about contraception.

Lawmakers Want to Pump Kids Up

Florida's school children next fall will be part of a trend reversal in which state lawmakers are starting to bring back physical education classes to combat childhood obesity.

Paris pleads for a pardon

Socialite Paris Hilton appeals to the California governor's vanity to get a "stay out of jail" pass. Wisconsin declares one of its towns the birthplace of the hamburger. And a teenager is bombarded with calls meant for Michigan Gov. Jennifer Granholm (D). In case you missed those stories this week, "Worth Noting" fills you in.

Easter egg flap fries Wyoming artists

A White House Easter tradition leaves Wyoming out, West Virginia Gov. Joe Manchin III (D) disses New Jersey and "The Donald" provokes a fight over Old Glory in the Florida Legislature. In case you missed those stories this week, "Worth Noting" fills you in.

Oregon City Club of Portland Speech 2007

PORTLAND, Ore., April 6 - Following is the text of Gov. Ted Kulongoski's 2007 address to the City Club of Portland. Click here to access the Governor's website. Thank you Susan for your generous introduction. And thanks to the members of the City Club of Portland for giving me this opportunity to talk about