Arkansas
Governor Awards Funds for Research, Start-Ups
Gov. Mike Beebe (D) released $950,000 in funds to help a group working to build a knowledge-based economy in Arkansas do economic research and support start-up companies. The bulk of the funding will go to Innovate Arkansas, a program established by the Arkansas Economic Development Commission to support start-up companies that are fast growing, high paying and technology or knowledge based.
Source: Arkansas News Bureau

Indiana
Lawmakers Question Anti-Immigration Bill
Members of a key House committee are criticizing a bill targeting companies that employ illegal immigrants, saying the bill would turn employers into racial profilers and lead to a mass exodus of much-needed workers. The bill would set up a three-tier punishment system for employers who knowingly hire illegal workers after Sept. 30, 2009.
Source: The Indianapolis Star

South Carolina
Governor Douses Sprinkler Legislation
Gov. Mark Sanford (R) is opposing legislation that offers tax credits for businesses to install sprinkler systems, saying the measure is too expensive and smacks of too much government interference. The legislation would give businesses a tax credit for 80% of the cost of installing sprinklers in their buildings. House Speaker Bobby Harrell (R) has vowed to override any veto of the sprinkler legislation.
Source: The Post and Courier

Michigan
Immigrant Licensing Policy Hurting Economy
Enforcement of a Michigan policy refusing driver's licenses to anyone who cannot prove U.S. citizenship or show a green card is hurting the state's efforts to bring skilled workers into the nation's most troubled economy. The policy is preventing tens of thousands of health care workers, business executives, students and legal refugees on temporary visas from getting licenses, according to opponents.
Source: National Public Radio

Minnesota
Governor Calls for Business Tax Overhaul
Gov. Tim Pawlenty (R) announced during his State of the State address last week that he would create a special commission to recommend tax changes he hopes would yield a healthier business climate. He said his tax commission would be made up of business owners, investors and private-sector employees. Republicans praised the announcement while Democrats criticized the governor for the lack of specifics.
Source: Associated Press