Colorado
Union-Dues Proposal Will Be on Ballot
A ballot initiative aimed at barring union dues and fees from being taken from paychecks of government employees won a spot on Colorado's November ballot last week. The measure would amend the state's constitution to prohibit state and local governments from allowing automatic payroll deductions for union dues or fees.
Source: The Denver Post

Iowa
Governor Cracks Down on Independent Contractors
Gov. Chet Culver (D) has formed a task force to find out how many businesspeople misclassify their employees as independent contractors in order to avoid paying them overtime, or in some cases the minimum wage. "We're going to have a zero tolerance policy when it comes to these employers knowingly breaking the law," the governor says.
Source: Radio Iowa

Nebraska
Disaster Aid Available for Businesses
More than $2.6 million in disaster aid—including $1.4 billion in SBA loans—is available for Nebraska individuals and business owners who sustained damage during the storms, tornadoes and flooding that hammered the state from May 22 to June 24. Businesses eligible for disaster aid can apply at fema.gov/assistance.
Source: Lincoln Journal Star

New York
Governor Asks for Federal Aid for State
Gov. David A. Paterson (D) called on the federal government to help New York weather the economic downturn, saying stock-market declines and fewer business deals would translate into about $1.7 billion less in state revenue from bonuses paid to financiers. The governor said the state helps the entire country by playing host to major stock markets and banking houses, and thus merits aid from Washington.
Source: Newsday

Vermont
Report Highlights Contributions of Art Businesses
A new report provides a look into the growing numbers of arts-centric businesses and jobs in Vermont and across the nation. The Creative Industries 2008 State Report from Americans for the Arts says that Vermont's arts-centric businesses have grown by 6.28% in the past year and employ 1.79% more people than in 2007. The report authors say data from the report will allow policymakers to understand the contributions of the arts to the nation's economy.
Source: Rutland Herald