Martinsdale Wind Power Project

From the Great Falls Tribune: "The state Department of Natural Resources and Conservation is recommending that wind turbines be allowed on state land as part of what would be the largest privately owned wind farm in Montana."

The Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) has posted the draft environmental impact statement (EIS) for the Martinsdale Wind Power Project.

Comments on the proposal will be accepted through March 9, 2009. Comments may be emailed (MartinsdaleWindFarm@mt.gov) or submitted to the following address: Montana DNRC, Northeastern Land Office: Martinsdale Wind Farm, PO Box 1021, Lewistown, MT 59457.

Source: Puckett, K. (20 February 2009). "State pushes for construction of Martinsdale Wind Farm." Great Falls Tribune.

Montana Bills in the News

HB 483: Revising laws governing board of environmental review related to energy projects

Bill text

Fiscal note
Source: Dennison, M. (20 February 2009). "Bills back energy projects: Republicans promoting proposals that would limit appeals of permits." Billings Gazette.

HB 529: Generally revise MEPA

Bill text

Fiscal note
Source: Associated Press. (18 February 2009). "GOP energy bills pack hearing." Billings Gazette.

HB 534: Require audio-video recording of custodial interrogations

Bill text

Fiscal note
Source: Adams, J.S. (20 February 2009). "Bill would require taping of interrogations by police." Great Falls Tribune.

HB 548: Require inspection for dog breeding facilities

Bill text

Fiscal note
Source: Johnson, C.S. (20 February 2009). "Debate heats up on 'puppy mill' bill." Missoulian.

HB 566: Revising environmental impact statement laws

Bill text

Fiscal note
Source: Associated Press. (18 February 2009). "GOP energy bills pack hearing." Billings Gazette.

SB 46: Protection of unborn life as compelling state interest

Bill text
Source: Deines, K. (20 February 2009). "Abortion bill passes first test in Senate." Missoulian. B1.

HJ 18: Censure Burlington Northern for river corridor scenery destruction

Bill text
Source: Associated Press (19 February 2009). "Idled rail cars focus of legislative reprimand." Great Falls Tribune.

SJ12: Approve Bitteroot valley community college

Bill text

Fiscal note
Source: Jannotta, S. (20 February 2009). "Community college tabled." Ravalli Republic (via Missoulian).

Atlas of the World's Languages in Danger

From the UNESCO press release: "UNESCO launched the electronic version of the new edition of its Atlas of the World's Languages in Danger on 19 February. This interactive digital tool provides updated data about approximately 2,500 endangered languages around the world and can be continually supplemented, corrected and updated, thanks to contributions from its users."

The United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has made the latest edition of The Atlas of the World's Languages in Danger interactive and freely available online.

Source: Davies, L. (20 February 2009). "Words of warning: 2,500 languages under threat worldwide as migrants head for city: Unesco unveils its first comprehensive database of endangered tongues." The Guardian.

NAS Forensic Science Report

From CNN: "In its report published Wednesday, the academy showed there is a serious lack of uniform standards, training and oversight. And, with the exception of DNA technology, the report concludes experts often overstate how much can be determined by forensic techniques running the gamut from fingerprinting to bite mark and hair analysis."

The National Academy of Sciences report, "Strengthening Forensic Science in the United States: A Path Forward," is now available online. The National Academy of Sciences website includes other information on the report, including a press release, testimony, and an archived audio briefing.

Source: Cratty, C., and Meserve, J. (18 February 2009). "Crime labs need major overhaul, study finds." CNN.

W.R. Grace Motion for Change of Venue

From the Missoulian: "In a 20-page defense motion filed Tuesday, attorneys for W.R. Grace wrote that 'pretrial publicity has saturated the community in which the court intends to conduct the trial in this case. The recent barrage of inflammatory media coverage will make it impossible to impanel an impartial jury.'"

The defense motion and attached documents are posted with the U.S. vs W.R. Grace case file on the U.S. District Court District of Montana website.

Joint motion for Leave to File Motion to Change Venue by W.R. Grace

Attachment 1

Attachment 2

Source: Scott, T. (19 February 2009). "Defense request to move Grace trial out of Missoula denied." Missoulian. A4.

Blair Report

From the Washington Post: "Director of National Intelligence Dennis C. Blair told Congress yesterday that instability in countries around the world caused by the current global economic crisis, rather than terrorism, is the primary near-term security threat to the United States."

The report from Director of National Intelligence Dennis Blair is available on the DNI website: "Annual Threat Assessment of the Intelligence Community for the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence."

Source: Pincus, W., and Warrick, J. (13 February 2009). "Financial Crisis Called Top Security Threat to U.S." Washington Post. A14.

American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 Update

From the Associated Press: "Reluctant to call it quits, key lawmakers bargained into overtime Thursday on the $790 billion economic stimulus legislation before reaching final agreement more than 24 hours after first announcing a deal. Lingering controversy over school-modernization money and a scaled-back tax break for businesses forced a delay in final votes on the legislation. But by nightfall, with Democratic leaders eager for final passage by the weekend, all issues were reported settled."

The House Rules Committee website has the text of the conference report that hammers out the compromise between the House and Senate versions of H.R. 1, The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. The website includes explanatory statements (Division A, Division B) that make the many provisions in the bill more clear.

The history of the bill up to (but not yet including) the conference report can be found through THOMAS.

Source: Associated Press (12 February 2009). "Lawmakers say all issues settled in stimulus bill: Dispute over school construction settled, vote expected in House Friday." MSNBC.com.

Salmonella Outbreak Hearing

From the Washington Post: "Stewart Parnell, president of Peanut Corporation of America, also pressed federal regulators to allow him to continue using peanuts from the tainted plant and shipped contaminated products to customers with a homemade certificate that falsely attested to their purity, according to e-mails and memos made public yesterday at a hearing of the House Energy and Commerce Committee."

The House Committee on Energy and Commerce held a hearing on "The Salmonella Outbreak: The Continued Failure to Protect the Food Supply." The hearing webpage includes links to testimony, released documents and memos, and archived video of the hearing.

Source: Layton, L. (12 February 2009). "Peanut Executive Takes the Fifth: Lawmakers Question Firm's President." Washington Post. A02.

Afghanistan Security

From the Washington Post: "Tens of thousands of assault rifles and other firearms in Afghanistan are at risk of being stolen because U.S. officials have lost track of them, according to a congressionally ordered audit that warns that some weapons may already be in Taliban hands."

The Government Accountability Office (GAO) produced a report and testimony related to this topic:

Afghanistan Security: Corrective Actions Are Needed to Address Serious Accountability Concerns about Weapons Provided to Afghan National Security Forces

Afghanistan Security: Lack of Systematic Tracking Raises Significant Accountability Concerns about Weapons Provided to Afghan National Security Forces

Source: Warrick, J., and Smith, R.J. (12 February 2009). "Lost U.S. Weapons May Be Going to Taliban, GAO Says." Washington Post. A12.

Omnibus Autism Proceeding Decisions

From the Washington Post: "Thousands of parents who claimed that childhood vaccines had caused their children to develop autism are wrong and not entitled to federal compensation, a special court ruled today in three decisions with far-reaching implications for a bitterly fought medical controversy."

The U.S. Court of Federal Claims has posted the decisions in three autism-related cases:

Cedillo v. Secretary of Health and Human Services Case No. 98-916V

Hazlehurst v. Secretary of Health and Human Services Case No. 03-654V

Snyder v. Secretary of Health and Human Services Case No. 01-162V

Additional information is available on the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program (VICP) website. The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) provides background information on autism.

Source: Vedantam, S. (12 February 2009). "Court Rules Autism Not Caused by Childhood Vaccines." Washington Post.

Montana Bills in the News

House Bill 395: New top marginal rate for taxable income

Bill text

Fiscal note
Source: Johnson. C.S. (12 February 2009). "Legislator suggests tax hike on wealthy." Missoulian. A1.

Senate Bill 46: Protection of unborn life as compelling state interest

Bill text
Source: Gouras, M. (12 February 2009). "Abortion bill faces tough road to ballot." Missoulian. B1.

Senate Bill 229: Use party affiliation on canvass for organizing legislature

Bill text
Source: Associated Press (12 February 2009). "Bill holds lawmakers to party affiliation." Great Falls Tribune.

Senate Bill 234: Insurance coverage for autism

Bill text

Fiscal note
Source: Devlin, V. (12 February 2009). "Measure requires insurers to provide coverage for autism." Missoulian. A5.

Northern Rockies Ecosystem Protection Act

From the Missoulian: "On Wednesday, representatives Carolyn Maloney, D-N.Y., and Raul Grijalva, D-Ariz., introduced the Northern Rockies Ecosystem Protection Act, which would protect 24 million acres in Montana, Idaho, Wyoming, eastern Oregon and eastern Washington. Nearly a third of the total - about 7.5 million acres - is in Montana."

H.R. 980, formally titled "To designate certain National Forest System lands and public lands under the jurisdiction of the Secretary of the Interior in the States of Idaho, Montana, Oregon, Washington, and Wyoming as wilderness, wild and scenic rivers, wildland recovery areas, and biological connecting corridors, and for other purposes," was introduced yesterday. The text of the bill will be added to THOMAS shortly. The initial draft of the bill has been posted on Representative Carolyn Maloney's website.

Source: Chaney, R. (12 February 2009). "Bill seeks to protect 24M acres." Missoulian. A1.

Outer Continental Shelf Plan

From the Washington Post: "The Obama administration will set aside an "oil and gas or nothing" approach to energy exploration on the outer continental shelf and consider proposals for offshore wind farms alongside plans for new drilling, Interior Secretary Ken Salazar said yesterday."

A press release on the Department of the Interior website and the text of Secretary Salazar's remarks describe the change in policy. The Secretary is extending the comment period on a proposed 5-year plan for oil and gas development on the U.S. Outer Continental Shelf drafted by the Bush Administration. The draft plan is posted on the Minerals Management Service (MMS) website. Interested parties can comment on the plan through the Regulations.gov website. The plan will be revised to incorporate more renewable energy options.

Source: Fahrenthold, D.A., and Eilperin, J. (11 February 2009). "Plan for Oil, Gas Exploration to Be Revamped." Washington Post. A03.

Montana Bills in the News

Here are some bills in the Montana Legislature which have been covered in news reports lately:

HB 228: Citizen self-defense and firearm rights

Bill text
Source: Lowery, C. (10 February 2009). "Montana House Gives Preliminary Nod to Gun-Rights Bill." New West.

HB 349: Revise animal cruelty laws

Bill text

Fiscal note
Source: Neumann, N. (9 February 2009). "Bill in Montana Legislature Would Address Rising Animal Cruelty Cases." New West.

HB 400: Revise alcohol content of beer

Bill text
Source: Schneider, B. (10 February 2009). "High-Octane Beer Bill Advances." New West.

HB 418: Authorize investor owned livestock slaughter and processing plants

Bill Text
Source: Gallagher, S. (11 February 2009). "Montana legislator pushes for horse slaughterhouse." Missoulian. B3.

SB 232: State pancake

Bill text
Source: Dennison, M. (11 February 2009). "Senate hears bill to designate state pancake." Helena Independent Record.

SB 236: Abolish death penalty

Bill text

Fiscal note
Source: Dennison, M. (11 February 2009). "Senate bill targeting death penalty clears panel." Missoulian. B3.

SB 339: Right to work

Bill text
Source: Associated Press (10 February 2009). "'Right to Work' quickly tabled at Legislature." Billings Gazette.

Economic Recovery Plans and Speeches

The video of last night's Presidential press conference has been posted on the White House website. A full transcript is also available.

The Treasury Department website has posted the prepared remarks of Secretary Geithner and a fact sheet on the Financial Stability Plan. More information will be added to a new website: Financial Stability.gov.

The Senate voted to pass H.R. 1, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, with roll call vote 61. Congress will now need to resolve the differences between the versions of the bill passed by the House and the Senate.

Sources: Kurtz, H. (10 February 2009). "At His First Prime-Time News Conference, Obama Is Serious and Expansive." Washington Post. A06.
Andrews, E.L., and Labaton, S. (10 February 2009). "Geithner Details New Bank Rescue Plan." New York Times.
Herszenhorn, D.M. (10 February 2009). "Senate Approves Stimulus Plan." New York Times.

Congressional Oversight Panel Report

From the Congressional Oversight Panel: "Today, February 6th, 2009, the Congressional Oversight Panel released its February Oversight Report, in which the Panel presents the results of a detailed, technical analysis of the value of Treasury's largest transactions under the Troubled Asset Relief Program (TARP). The report, entitled Valuing Treasury Acquisitions, concludes that Treasury paid substantially more for the assets it purchased under the TARP than the market value of those assets at the time the deal was announced. The Panel's analysis revealed that in the ten largest transactions made with TARP funds, for every $100 spent by Treasury, it received assets worth, on average, only $66. This disparity translates into a $78 billion shortfall for the first $254 billion in TARP funds that were spent."

The Congressional Oversight Panel report, "Valuing Treasury's Acquisitions," has been posted online.

Source: Reuters (6 February 2009). "Regulator Says Bailout Fund Is Misleading the Public." New York Times.

January 2009 Unemployment Numbers

From the New York Times: "The United States lost almost 600,000 jobs last month, and the unemployment rate rose to 7.6 percent, its highest level in more than 16 years, the Labor Department said Friday."

The latest unemployment numbers are available through the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The BLS website also has the Commissioner's statement on the employment situation and trend data related to unemployment.

Source: Andrews, E.L. (6 February 2009). "Economy Shed 598,000 Jobs in January." New York Times.

Montana Snowpack Data

From the Missoulian: "More mountain snowstorms in the coming weeks would make for a better summer down the road, according to snowpack data released Thursday by the Natural Resources Conservation Service."

The Montana Snow Survey Program of the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) collects data on snowpack for various watersheds. The latest Snow/Precipitation Update Report can be retrieved with through the website.

Source: Devlin, V. (6 February 2009). "Mountains need more snowpack." Missoulian. B1.

Bills to Implement Healthy Kids initiative

From the Missoulian: "Despite warnings against 'socialized medicine,' the Montana House Monday endorsed a bill that helps launch the voter-approved expansion of government health coverage for uninsured kids."

Information about HB 157, the "Implement healthy kids initiative," is available on the Montana Legislature website through the LAWS database. This includes the bill text and fiscal note.

Source: Dennison, M. (3 February 2009). "House passes bill to expand CHIP." Missoulian. A1.

New Economic Indicators and Task Force on Middle-Class Working Families

From the New York Times: "The United States economy shrank at its fastest pace in a quarter century from October through December, the government reported on Friday, as consumer spending and business investment collapsed, signaling more economic contraction in the months ahead....

"The president also announced the first meeting of a Task Force on Middle-Class Working Families, which will seek to raise living standards of working families."

The Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) has published new 4th quarter 2008 gross domestic product figures. The BEA also collects data on personal income, international trade, and more. This information and other key indicators are tracked on the EconomicIndicators.gov website.

The White House website posted information about the new Task Force on Middle-Class Working Families. The site includes information about the task force and a form for submitting your ideas.

Source: Healy, J., and Uchitelle, L. (30 January 2009). "Steep Slide in U.S. Economy as Unsold Goods Pile Up." New York Times.

More Details on Peanut Product Recall

From the Washington Post: "In one of the largest food recalls in history, the Food and Drug Administration asked retailers, manufacturers and consumers yesterday to throw out every product made in the past two years from peanuts processed by a Georgia plant at the heart of a deadly nationwide outbreak of salmonella illness."

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) website has gathered large amounts of information on the recall of peanut products produced by the Peanut Corporation of America. This includes a searchable database of products subject to the recall, links to CDC information on salmonella, and much more. The FDA is a good site for recall information, and there is an additional, specialized website for other recall information: Recalls.gov.

Source: Layton, L. (29 January 2009). "Every Peanut Product From Ga. Plant Recalled: FDA: Toss Out Anything Made in 2007-08." Washington Post. A01.

Senate Passes SCHIP Again

From the Washington Post: "The Senate overwhelmingly approved legislation yesterday to provide health insurance to 11 million low-income children, a bill that would for the first time spend federal money to cover children and pregnant women who are legal immigrants."

The Senate passed H.R.2, the Children's Health Insurance Program Reauthorization Act of 2009, yesterday with roll call vote 31. The House passed the bill on January 14 with vote 16. Since there were differences between the versions of the bill upon which each chamber voted, a conference committee will meet to resolve the differences. Senator Baucus will be one of the members of that conference committee.

Source: Connolly, C. (30 January 2009). "Senate Passes Health Insurance Bill for Children: Immigrant Clause Opens Rift." Washington Post. A01.

2008 State of the State

From the Missoulian: "Gov. Brian Schweitzer used his State of the State address Wednesday night to unveil a proposed $44 million-a-year tax on oil-and-gas production to fund higher teacher salaries in the state."

The Governor gave the State of the State address last night. The outline of his address has been posted on the State of Montana website. A related bill, HB 388, presents details of the oil and gas surtax for education funding plan. The LAWS database has the text of the bill.

Source: Dennison, M. (29 January 2009). "Governor proposes tax on oil, gas production." Missoulian. A1.

Wild Buffalo Recovery and Conservation Act

From New West: "The livestock industry considers bison 'livestock' and conservationists consider the species 'wildlife,' with the livestock definition ruling the day. As a result, the Montana Department of Livestock (DOL) has responsibility for bison management.

"That fact is the focus of HB 253, co-sponsored by Mike Phillips (D-Bozeman) and Ted Washburn (R-Bozeman). The sure-to-be-controversial bill is, according to a flier distributed by its primary ball-carrier, the Gallatin Wildlife Association (GWA), 'a bi-partisan first step toward returning bison management to wildlife professionals, while respecting and protecting private property rights.'"

Information about HB 253, the "Wild Buffalo Recovery and Conservation Act," can be found on the Montana Legislature website in the LAWS database. The database includes the text of the bill and the related fiscal note.

Sources: Buffalo Field Campaign (27 January 2009). "NEWS: BFC Supports Wild Buffalo Recovery Bill." New West.
Schneider, B. (26 January 2009). "Are Bison Wildlife or Livestock?" New West.

Crawford v. Nashville

From the New York Times: "Employees fired after cooperating in sexual harassment investigations may sue for retaliation, the Supreme Court ruled Monday in a case concerning the scope of a federal law barring sex discrimination in the workplace."

Crawford v. Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson Cty.

Docket no. 06-1595

Questions presented

Supreme Court opinion

Transcript of oral arguments

Merits briefs

Lower court opinion (6th Circuit Court of Appeals, 05-5258)

Source: Liptak, D. (26 January 2009). "Court Expands Ability to Sue in Sexual Harassment Investigations." New York Times.

Indian Health Funds in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Plan

From the Missoulian: "The Senate Appropriations Committee on Tuesday approved a multibillion-dollar economic stimulus plan, including $2.8 billion for tribes - with the largest share directed toward Indian health services and buildings."

The Senate Appropriations Committee website has information about the vote to approve a portion of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Plan. You can find more information about the American Recovery and Reinvestment Plan (H.R. 1) through THOMAS.

Source: Rave, J. (28 January 2009). "Package includes $2.8B for tribes." Missoulian. A1.

CBO Report on the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act

From the Washington Post: "Approximately two-thirds of the spending and tax cuts contained in an economic stimulus package crafted by House Democrats would flow into the economy by the end of fiscal 2010, producing a "noticeable impact on economic growth and employment," congressional budget analysts said yesterday."

The Congressional Budget Office (CBO) produced the report on H.R. 1, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. You can find additional information on the bill through THOMAS.

Source: Montgomery, L. (27 January 2009). "House Plan Offers 'Noticeable Impact': CBO Sees 65% Spent by End of Fiscal 2010." Washington Post. A07.

Climate Change and Policy Directives

From the NOAA press release: "A new scientific study led by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration reaches a powerful conclusion about the climate change caused by future increases of carbon dioxide: to a large extent, there’s no going back."

The new climate change report authored by National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) staff has been published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. General information about the group's research is available on the Earth System Research Laboratory website.

The White House website provides information on the President's energy and environment policies. The site also includes the Presidential memos on fuel economy and the Clean Air Act.

Sources: Chaney, R. (27 January 2009). "Running: Action needed despite grim report." Misosulian.
Mufson, S., and Eilperin, J. (27 January 2009). "Obama Issues Orders Toward More Fuel-Efficient Cars." Washington Post. A04.
Branigin, W., Eilperin, J., and Mufson, S. (26 January 2009). "Obama Announces New Energy, Environmental Policies." Washington Post.

Stream Access Bill

From the Missoulian: "A bill that aims to clear up the four-year snag over bridge access got an overwhelming early endorsement Monday from the Montana House of Representatives."

You can read the text and fiscal note of House Bill 190, "Clarify bridge access law," through the LAWS database. The database also shows the progress of and roll call votes for the bill.

Source: McKee, J. (27 January 2009). "Legislature 2009: House supports stream access bill." Missoulian. B1.

American Recovery and Reinvestment Plan

From the Washington Post: "President Obama pressed aggressively for his massive economic recovery plan yesterday, laying out the most detailed benchmarks to date of a stimulus package that would cost at least $820 billion and warning that the nation's economy could become dramatically worse without major federal investment."

The President discussed the economic recovery plan in his weekly address. The video and transcript have been posted on the White House blog. There is additional information about the plan on the White House economic agenda page.

Source: Rucker, P. (25 January 2009). "Obama Details Recovery Plan: An Aggressive Push Before Congress Considers Package." Washington Post. A01.

Pit Bull Bill Tabled

From the Billings Gazette: "A bill to ban the breed died in committee late Thursday. The House Local Government Committee voted 17-1 against passing House Bill 191. Only the bill's sponsor, Rep. Robyn Driscoll, D-Billings, voted in favor of the bill."

You can find the text of House Bill 191 through the Montana Legislature LAWS database. The audio for the committee hearing has been archived and is available on the Montana Legislature website. You can read the text and track progress of other state legislature bills using the LAWS database.

Source: McKee, J. (23 January 2009). "Pit bull owners decry proposed ban, which dies in committee: More than 100 of the breed's supporters show up to oppose bill." Billings Gazette.

Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act of 2009

From the Washington Post: "A wage-discrimination bill that narrowly failed less than a year ago moved closer to becoming law last night, when the Senate passed the legislation and sent it back to the House for final consideration.

"The measure, approved 61 to 36, would overturn a Supreme Court decision to make it easier for women to sue employers for pay inequity, regardless of when the discrepancies took place. It may become the first legislation signed by President Obama, who campaigned in favor of it."

The Senate voted 61-36 to pass S. 181, the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act of 2009. The bill seeks to overturn the ruling in Ledbetter v. Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co. A summary of this case was posted on May 30, 2007.

Source: Murray, S. (23 January 2009). "Fair-Wage Bill Clears The Senate: High Court Decision Would Be Overturned." Washington Post. A04.

Financial Regulatory System Report

From the Washington Post: "The U.S. financial regulatory system is seriously outdated and needs urgent reform to avoid a further worsening of the economic crisis, concludes a report released yesterday by the Government Accountability Office."

An update to the "high-risk" series from the Government Accountability Office (GAO) was released yesterday. The GAO also produced testimony on the financial regulatory system recently: "Financial Regulation: A Framework for Crafting and Assessing Proposals to Modernize the Outdated U.S. Financial Regulatory System."

Source: Vogel, S. (23 January 2009). "Report Faults Financial Oversight." Washington Post. A13.

Executive Orders on Guantanamo Bay and Detainees

From the Washington Post: "President Obama took dramatic steps yesterday to reverse Bush administration policies on the detention and interrogation of suspected terrorists, ordering the closure of the U.S. detention camp at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, and banning the use of controversial CIA interrogation techniques. But he left open the question of how his administration will deal with any detainees it concludes are too dangerous to be released."

The latest Executive Orders from President Obama have been posted on the White House website:

Review and Disposition of Individuals Detained at the Guantanamo Bay Naval Base and Closure of Detention Facilities

Review of Detention Policy Options

Ensuring Lawful Interrogations

The previous day, the President also issued Executive Orders pertaining to ethics and Presidential records.

Source: Warrick, J., and DeYoung, K. (23 January 2009). "Obama Reverses Bush Policies On Detention and Interrogation." Washington Post. A06.

Seven Cabinet Nominations Confirmed

From the Washington Post: "The Senate approved seven of President Obama's Cabinet-level appointees yesterday but delayed a planned vote on Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton's confirmation to be secretary of state because of objections from a Republican member."

As his first official act, President Obama formally nominated his choices for various Cabinet and executive branch positions. These nominations were transmitted to the Senate, and the Senate confirmed seven of the nominations in a voice vote. The action was recorded in the Congressional Record. A transcript of the inaugural ceremony is also included in the January 20 Congressional Record.

Source: Murray, S., and Kane, P. (21 Jan. 2009). "Obama Picks Confirmed, But Clinton Is on Hold: Her Husband's Foundation Remains an Issue." Washington Post. A22.

House Passes CHIP Reauthorization

From the Missoulian: "The U.S. House on Wednesday overwhelmingly passed a bill to expand the Children's Health Insurance Program, or CHIP, which should provide health coverage for up to 20,000 additional children in Montana.

"U.S. Rep. Denny Rehberg, R-Mont., voted for the measure, which passed on a 289-139 vote."

The text of the latest reauthorization bill, H.R. 2, is available through THOMAS. You can see how each member of the House voted in House roll call vote 16. The bill now heads to the Senate for consideration.

Source: Dennison, M. (15 Jan. 2009). "U.S. House votes to expand CHIP." Missoulian. A2.

Confirmation Hearing for EPA Nominee

From the Missoulian: " The change in White House administrations could mean more money for asbestos cleanup and health care in Libby, as the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency may again consider an emergency declaration there.

"On Wednesday, Lisa Jackson - nominee to head EPA under an Obama presidency - told congressional lawmakers she would, if confirmed, visit Libby to meet with both EPA staffers and locals."

The Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works held a confirmation hearing for Lisa P. Jackson, nominated to be Administrator of the EPA, yesterday. The hearing webpage includes the prepared testimony of Jackson, an archived webcast of the hearing, and statements from committee members.

Source: Jamison, M. (15 Jan. 2009). "EPA may reconsider emergency declaration in Libby." Missoulian. A1.

Congress on YouTube

Doesn't it seem like everyone is on YouTube? The U.S. House of Representatives and Senate have their own YouTube hubs. A Google-driven feature helps you find your senators' and representative's channel by clicking on a map.

Here are the available Montana shortcuts:
Senator Jon Tester
Representative Denny Rehberg

Gray Wolf Delisting

From the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) press release: "Deputy Secretary of the Interior Lynn Scarlett announced today the removal of the western Great Lakes population and portions of the northern Rocky Mountain population of gray wolves from protection under the Endangered Species Act. The success of gray wolf recovery efforts in these areas has contributed to expanding populations of wolves that no longer require the protection of the Act. However, gray wolves found within the borders of Wyoming will continue to be protected by the Act due to a lack of adequate regulatory mechanisms ensuring their protection under state law."

Additional information about the delisting has been posted on the FWS Mountain-Prairie Region website. The Western Gray Wolf webpage provides quick links to the new regulations and background information. The regional press release provides further details.

Source: Associated Press (14 Jan. 2009). "Government makes decision on gray wolf protection." Missoulian.

December 2008 Unemployment Numbers

From the New York Times: "The unemployment rate jumped to 7.2 percent in December from 6.8 percent in November and 5 percent last April, when the recession was four months old and just beginning to bite. More than 11 million Americans are now unemployed."

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) issued the latest report on employment today. A statement from the BLS Commissioner was also issued.

Source: Uchitelle, L. (9 Jan. 2009). "Jobless Rate Hits 7.2%, a 16-Year High." New York Times.

Financial Crisis Timeline

Trying to keep track of the current financial crisis and efforts taken to address the problems? The St. Louis Fed has created a new website outlining the crisis and policy efforts in timeline form. This interesting site breaks actions down by month and links to relevant press releases, reports, SEC filings and Congressional testimony.

The Financial Crisis Timeline website provides quick access to relevant data collected by the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis. There are also helpful links to other key players in the fiscal crisis.

111th Congress

The 111th session of Congress gets underway this week. You can track all the action through THOMAS, the Library of Congress website that provides quick access to bill text and status, transcripts of floor action (via the Congressional Record), vote results, and much more.

Here are a few additional websites to keep in mind if you want to keep up with Congress:

Senate.gov - Provides fast access to contact information for your senators, to Senate committees, and to the Senate Library (which has excellent background information about how Congress works).

House.gov - Like the Senate website, the House website is the fastest way to track down your representative and find House committees.

Congressional Budget Office - Want to know how much a proposed program will cost? The CBO has probably crunched the numbers.

2009 Statistical Abstract

Need some quick statistics and don't know where to look? The Statistical Abstract of the United States is the place to start.

The Census Bureau released the 2009 Statistical Abstract of the United States this week. It compiles key statistics covering many aspects of American life: education, health, business, energy, demographics, labor force characteristics, prices, transportation, etc. Tables include references to the source of the information, so if you want to find additional or related information you will have a place to go next. Try it out.

2009 Montana Legislative Session

Today, the 2009 Montana Legislative Session gets underway.

Information on the 2009 Session is on the Montana Legislature website. The site includes links to bills, legislators, calendars, agendas, and more. The LAWS Look Up Bill Information database for the 2009 Session is particularly useful for updates on bill progress, bill text, and related fiscal notes. The Legislature site also provides easy access to audio recordings of Senate sessions, House sessions, and committee meetings.

Earthquake Swarm in Yellowstone

From the Helena Independent Record: "A swarm of earthquakes that began Saturday continue to rattle Yellowstone National Park.

"Over the past three days, more than 37 temblors have shaken the earth below Yellowstone Lake, causing scientists to speculate on the cause and field questions on whether the quakes were a prelude to an eruption of the park's super volcano."

The situation at Yellowstone is being monitored by the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory. The observatory site includes press releases and updates on recent activity.

The University of Utah is a partner of the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory, and the University website includes data on the earthquake swarm in the form of text summaries of seismograph stations and webicorder (seismogram) displays.

The U.S. Geological Survey Earthquake Hazards Program collects data on earthquakes in the intermountain west region. The program includes information on seismic activity in Montana and Wyoming.

Source: Kidston, M.J. (30 Dec. 2008). "Cluster of quakes shake Yellowstone." Helena Independent Record.

Excess Spoil Minimization/Stream Buffer Zone Rule

From the Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement (OSM) press release: "The Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement (OSM) announced today its plans to publish a new Federal rule that places new restrictions on how coal mine operators can dispose of coal mine waste and the excess spoil created by the mining operation. The rule also requires that mine operators avoid disturbing perennial and intermittent streams to the extent possible and clarifies when mine operators must maintain an undisturbed buffer between the mine and adjacent streams."

The Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement (OSM) website includes a summary of the final rule (and how it differs from the proposed rule), the related Environmental Impact Statement, and the text of the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act of 1977.

The proposed rule was initially issued on January 7, 2004. Public comment on the rule and related documents have been posted on the Regulations.gov website, attached to docket OSM-2007-0007 and RIN 1029-AC04. The review of the final rule conducted by the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs (part of the President's Office of Management and Budget) has been posted on the RegInfo.gov website. The Regulations.gov site includes the EPA Concurrence Letter approving of the final regulation. The final rule should be published in the Federal Register in the near future.

Source: Eilperin, J. (3 Dec. 2008). "Rule Would Ease Mining Debris Disposal: Environmentalists Fear Streams Will Be Harmed." Washington Post. A06.

W.R. Grace SEC Filings

From the Missoulian: "W.R. Grace & Co. has agreed to pay up to $140 million to settle a class-action lawsuit stemming from its use of an attic-insulating product that contained asbestos.

"The specialty chemicals maker company will pay $30 million cash into a trust fund, an additional $30 million cash after three years, and make up to 10 additional annual payments of $8 million if certain conditions are met, it said in a filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission."

The Securities and Exchange Commission listing for W.R. Grace & Co. includes numerous filings, including the November 24, 2008, Form 8-K - Current report. This filing includes the Form 8-K and the Term Sheet for Resolution of U.S. Zonolite Attic Insulation Claims.

Source: Scheyder, E., AP (3 Dec. 2008). "W.R. Grace to settle suit for $140M." Missoulian. A6.

GAO Report on TARP

From the Associated Press: "The government must toughen its monitoring of the $700 billion financial bailout to ensure that banking institutions limit their top executives' pay and comply with other restrictions, federal auditors said Tuesday in the first comprehensive review of the rescue package."

The Government Accountability Office (GAO) issued a report yesterday on the Troubled Asset Relief Program (TARP): "Troubled Asset Relief Program: Additional Actions Needed to Better Ensure Integrity, Accountability, and Transparency."

Source: Kuhnhenn, J., AP (2 Dec. 2008). "Auditors fault Treasury oversight of bailout funds." Yahoo! News.

"Big Three" Restructuring Plans and Congressional Hearings

From the Missoulian: "As chiefs for the nation's top automakers made a second appeal to lawmakers Tuesday for $25 billion in federal help, their plans included an element first suggested by Montana Democratic Sen. Jon Tester last month: Slash chief executive pay to a buck a year."

The restructuring plans for each of the "Big Three" U.S. auto companies are now posted on the Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committee website. The House Financial Services Committee also has posted the restructuring plans.

The Senate Banking Committee plans to hold a hearing on the issue on Thursday, and the House Financial Services Committee plans to hold a similar hearing on Friday. Senator Tester's website has a brief comment about the CEOs $1 salary commitment.

Source: McKee, J. (3 Dec. 2008). "Big 3 automakers agree to Tester's pay plan." Missoulian. A1.

GAO Report on Northern Border Security

From the Associated Press: "Congressional investigators are criticizing the Department of Homeland Security, saying the department needs to release more information about weaknesses on the northern border."

The Government Accountability Office (GAO) issued a report on northern border security last week: "Northern Border Security: DHS's Report Could Better Inform Congress by Identifying Actions, Resources, and Time Frames Needed to Address Vulnerabilities."

Source: Associated Press (1 Dec. 2008). "GAO: More information needed on northern border." Missoulian.

Report of the Commission on the Prevention of WMD Proliferation and Terrorism

From the Washington Post: "The odds that terrorists will soon strike a major city with weapons of mass destruction are now better than even, a bipartisan congressionally mandated task force concludes in a draft study that warns of growing threats from rogue states, nuclear smuggling networks and the spread of atomic know-how in the developing world."

The Commission on the Prevention of Weapons of Mass Destruction Proliferation and Terrorism has issued its report, "World at Risk: The Report of the Commission on the Prevention of WMD Proliferation and Terrorism."

Source: Warrick, J. (2 Dec. 2008). "Nuclear or Biological Attack Called Likely." Washington Post. A2.

Ford Restructuring Plan

From the Washington Post: "Ford Motor Co., unveiling a business plan demanded by Congress before it approves aid for the Big Three U.S. automakers, disclosed today that it is seeking a bridge loan of up to $9 billion and that it expects to break even or become profitable in 2011."

Ford's report and restructuring plan is posted on the Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committee website and on the House Financial Services Committee website.

Source: Branigin, W. (2 Dec. 2008). "Ford Makes Concessions in Effort to Get Government Help." Washington Post.

Global Trends 2025

From the New York Times: "A new study of the global future by American intelligence agencies suggests that Al Qaeda could soon be on the decline, having alienated Muslim supporters with indiscriminate killing and inattention to the practical problems of poverty, unemployment and education."

A new report, "Global Trends 2025: A Transformed World," has been posted on the National Intelligence Council website.

Source: Shane, S. (20 Nov. 2008). "Global Forecast by American Intelligence Expects Al Qaeda's Appeal to Falter." New York Times.

Missoula Long Range Transportation Plan

From the Missoulian: "Missoula's long-range transportation plan is out for review, and the status of Russell Street evolved the day after the document was released. The draft also reflects preferences Missoulians have for biking, walking and riding the bus."

The 2008 Long Range Transportation Plan Update Draft has been posted on the Missoula County Transportation Planning Division website.

Source: Szpaller, K. (25 Nov. 2008). "Transportation plan places emphasis on alternative modes." Missoulian. B1.

Auto Industry Bailout

From the New York Times: "Mr. Reid proposed a $100 billion economic stimulus plan that would include $25 billion in loans for the auto industry as well as $13.5 billion for roads, mass transit and other public infrastructure; money for financially ailing state governments; more jobless benefits; and added food stamp assistance."

The newly introduced bill is S. 3688. You can read the text of the bill through the Congressional Record (the text begins on page S10584) and track the progress of the bill through THOMAS.

Source: Hulse, C. (17 Nov. 2008). "Congress Remains Divided on Bailout." New York Times.

Gulf War Illness Report

From the Washington Post: "A report released yesterday concluded that Gulf War syndrome is a legitimate condition suffered by more than 175,000 U.S. military veterans who were exposed to chemical toxins in the 1991 Persian Gulf War."

The Research Advisory Committee on Gulf War Veterans' Illnesses issued a lengthy report yesterday: "Gulf War Illness and the Health of Gulf War Veterans: Scientific Findings and Recommendations." The committee website links to related reports and documents on Gulf War illnesses.

Source: News services. (18 Nov. 2008). "Gulf War Syndrome Is Real, Panel Concludes." Washington Post. A14.

Mitchell Slough Case

From the Missoulian: "In a case with statewide implications, the Montana Supreme Court ruled Monday that Mitchell Slough is open to recreation under the state's stream access law.

"The court said the 16-mile-long slough roughly follows the historical course of a waterway mapped 130 years ago, and therefore is subject to public access and required permitting, as are other natural waterways."

An opinion has been issued in the Bitterroot River Protection v. Department of Fish, Wildlife, and Parks case. The Docket number is DA 06-0520. Documents in the case have been posted on the State Law Library website.

Source: Backus, P. (18 Nov. 2008). "Mitchell Slough open for recreation, justices say." Missoulian. A1.

Report on the Bitterroot Valley Community College Proposal

From the Missoulian: "Commissioner of Higher Education Sheila Stearns and her staff released a 54-page report Monday on the Bitterroot Valley Community College proposal.

"The report calls the timeline between approval of the project and the proposed start of classes in fall 2009 as 'unrealistic,' and examines flaws in funding and enrollment projections."

The report on the Bitterroot Valley Community College (BVCC) District proposal prepared by the Commissioner of Higher Education is posted on the Board of Regents website. The agenda for the Board of Regents meeting and associated documents are available on the website as well.

Source: Moy, C. (18 Nov. 2008). "Proposed Bitterroot campus faces tough sell to regents this week." Missoulian. A1.

Atmospheric Brown Clouds Report

From the Associated Press: "A dirty brown haze sometimes more than a mile thick is darkening skies not only over vast areas of Asia, but also in the Middle East, southern Africa and the Amazon Basin, changing weather patterns around the world and threatening health and food supplies, the U.N. reported Thursday."

The United Nations Environment Programme released a report this week on Atmospheric Brown Clouds: "Atmospheric Brown Clouds: Regional assessment report with focus on Asia." The report includes information on the impact on Hindu Kush-Himalayan-Tibetan (HKHT) glaciers and snow packs.

Source: Tran, T., and Heilprin, J., AP (14 Nov. 2008). "UN: Clouds of pollution threaten glaciers, health." Yahoo! News.

2008 World Energy Outlook

From the Associated Press: "More than a trillion dollars in annual investments to find new fossil fuels will be needed for the next two decades to avoid an energy crisis that could choke the global economy, the International Energy Agency said Wednesday."

The International Energy Agency (IEA) released the 2008 edition of the World Energy Outlook this week. The IEA site provides free access to the executive summary of the report, fact sheets, and sample graphs.

The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) is another good source for energy projections and forecasts.

Source: Porretto, J., and Wardell, J., AP (13 Nov. 2008). "Energy agency warns of impending supply crunch." Google News.

2009 Health Care Reform Proposal

From Senator Baucus's press release: "At a press conference on Capitol Hill today newly re-elected Montana U.S. Senator Max Baucus unveiled an 89-page health care reform blueprint, which outlines a path to quality, affordable health care for all Montanans and Americans."

The press release on the Senator's website summarizes the health care proposal. The full proposal, "Call To Action: Health Reform 2009," is posted on the Senate Finance Committee website.

Source: Dennison, M. (13 Nov. 2008). "Baucus unveils health care reform proposal." Missoulian. A1.

Montana 2011 Biennium Budget and Revenue Estimates

From the Missoulian: "Revenue analysts say they will tell lawmakers next week that tax collections could drop by about $40 million for Montana's upcoming two-year budget period. And the projected surplus for that budget period, which ends in mid-2011, has dropped by about $500 million - down to about $287 million."

The 2011 Biennium Revenue Estimates have been posted on the Montana Legislative Fiscal Division website.

The 2011 Biennium Executive Budget was posted on the Montana Office of Budget and Program Planning website today.

Source: Gouras, M. (15 Nov. 2008). "Montana budget: Surplus expected to shrink." Missoulian. A1.

2008 Plum Book

From the Washington Post: "As the national unemployment rate climbs to a 14-year high, a treasure trove of about 8,000 new jobs surfaced in one place on Capitol Hill yesterday. The federal government published the Plum Book, an inventory of positions that will soon be vacated by the Bush administration and open for hire."

You can find the 2008 edition of the Plum Book on GPO Access.

Source: Layton, L., and Romano, L. (13 Nov. 2008). "'Plum Book' Is Obama's Big Help-Wanted Ad." Washington Post. A01.

GAO Transition Website

From the Government Accountability Office (GAO): "Following each presidential election, GAO serves as a resource to assist with the transition to a new Congress and administration. On this Web site, using its institutional knowledge and broad-based, nonpartisan work on matters across the government spectrum, GAO provides insight into, and recommendations for addressing, the nation's major issues, risks and challenges. Also located throughout the site are key reports for further research, as well as contact information for and video messages from GAO experts."

The GAO 2009 Congressional and Presidential Transition website includes briefings on key issues in each of the executive branch agencies, a long-term fiscal outlook, reports on management challenges, governmental cost-saving opportunities, and briefings on major (cross-agency) issues. The Department of Interior report, referenced in the source article, describes major challenges and issues for the agency that should be addressed in the next term.

Source: Rave, J. (12 Nov. 2008). "GAO says trust fund reform key Interior issue." Missoulian. A1.

Unemployment Rate

From the New York Times: "The American economy lost another 240,000 jobs in October, the government reported Friday, as cash-strapped consumers pulled back sharply and businesses hunkered down, intensifying the distress gripping much of the country."

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) collects data on employment rates, and the agency released information today on the October 2008 employment situation (PDF).

In related news, the Treasury Department and Federal Reserve have made announcements recently about their next steps to boost the economy.

Source: Goodman, P.S. (7 Nov. 2008). "Jobless Rate at 14-Year High After October Losses." New York Times.

FCC v. Fox Television

From the Washington Post: "It's not every day that a top lawyer for the Bush administration, standing before the black-robed justices of the Supreme Court, invokes the specter of 'Big Bird dropping the F-bomb on Sesame Street.'"

The transcript of the oral arguments in FCC v. Fox Television Stations, Inc. has been posted on the Supreme Court website. The website includes other documents relating to docket 07-582, including merits briefs.

Source: Markon, J. (5 Nov. 2008). "Supreme Court Takes Up Case of Use of Profanity on TV." Washington Post. A02.

Middle East Fork Project Ruling

From the Missoulian: "The 2 1/2-year legal saga of Montana's first Healthy Forest Restoration Act fuel reduction project may be over.

"A three-judge 9th Circuit Court of Appeals panel Thursday affirmed a Missoula District Court ruling that rejected a challenge by two environmental groups."

The Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals website has the link to the judicial opinion in Wildwest Institute v. Bull.

The Bitterroot National Forest Website has numerous documents related to the Middle East Fork Hazardous Fuel Reduction project:

Middle East Fork Hazardous Fuel Reduction Draft EIS (April 2005)

Middle East Fork Hazardous Fuel Reduction Final EIS (September 2005)

Middle East Fork Hazardous Fuels Reduction Record of Decision (March 2006)

Source: Backus, P. (7 Nov. 2008). "9th Circuit rules for Forest Service on thinning project." Missoulian. B1.

GAO Encourages Oil and Gas Development Oversight

From the Associated Press: "In a review of the 55,000 federal oil and gas leases issued to energy companies by the Interior Department from 1987 to 1996, the Government Accountability Office found that the majority expired without any drilling and that few actually produced oil and natural gas."

The Government Accountability Office (GAO) released this report to the public on November 4: "Oil and Gas Leasing: Interior Could Do More to Encourage Diligent Development."

Source: Associated Press. (5 Nov. 2008). "GAO Urges Interior to Speed Oil Drilling on Federal Land." Washington Post. A21.

Unlicensed Use of Television White Spaces

From the Washington Post: "Preachers on the pulpit, Guns N' Roses and others who fear their wireless microphones would be disrupted by widespread public access to certain unused airwaves were drowned out by high-tech titans Google and Microsoft in a federal ruling yesterday."

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) website has information about rules for unlicensed use of television white spaces. The FCC Office of Engineering and Technology conducted preliminary experiments on the impact of unlicensed operation in the TV broadcast bands and issued a report on those tests.

The FCC website also includes information on the recently approved Verizon Wireless-ALLTEL and Sprint-Nextel/Clearwire mergers.

Source: Kang, C. (5 Nov. 2008). "FCC Expands Use of Airwaves: 'White Space' to Be Opened to Devices Connected to Web." Washington Post. D01.

Prepare to Vote

Election Day is right around the corner. Are you prepared to vote? In Montana, there are resources to confirm you are registered, to help you find your polling place, and to review sample ballots prior to going to vote.

Montana Voter Registration Status and Polling Place Locator Service
This Secretary of State service confirms your registration and tells you where you vote.

2008 Voter Information Pamphlet
Information about statewide ballot issues that will be on the ballot.

2008 US Voter Info
This Google Maps feature shows you where your polling place is based on your home address.

County Election Offices are a great resource for election information. These offices often have sample ballots available for review online prior to Election Day. Here are the Election Office websites for the Missoula area:
Missoula County (Sample ballots)
Ravalli County (Sample ballot)
Lake County

Gray Wolf Comment Period Reopened

From the Fish & Wildlife Service (FWS) press release: "The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service today announced it is reopening the public comment period on its proposal to delist the gray wolf in the northern Rocky Mountains. The public will have until November 28, 2008, to submit their comments to the Federal eRulemaking Portal at http://www.regulations.gov or via U.S. mail or hand delivery to: Public Comments Processing, Attn: RIN 1018-Au53; Division of Policy and Directives Management; U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service; 4401 N. Fairfax Drive, Suite 222; Arlington, VA 22203."

You can find materials related to the public comment process through the Regulations.gov website. The Federal Register notice and public comment form are linked on the site. Regulatory materials for this comment period are linked together under docket FWS-R6-ES-2008-0008. The docket link provides quick access to public comments already submitted and an option to receive email notifications whenever new materials or comments are posted for this docket.

The FWS website for gray wolves in the Northern Rocky Mountains provides access to recovery information, court documents, Federal Register notices, annual reports, and much more.

Source: Jamison, M. (25 Oct. 2008). "Public comments reopened on delisting wolves." Missoulian. A1.

Zonolite Attic Insulation Claims

From the Missoulian: "A federal bankruptcy judge has set an Oct. 31 deadline for homeowners whose household insulation might be contaminated with asbestos. Judge Judith Fitzgerald has ruled residents must file their legal claims against W.R. Grace and Co. before Halloween, or forever forfeit the right to do so."

Information on Zonolite Attic Insulation claims may be found on the Grace Bankruptcy Claims Information Site. The site includes the Proof of Claim form.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) website includes information about asbestos and about the Libby cleanup project.

The U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of Delaware website includes opinions (though not orders) issued by Judge Judith K. Fitzgerald in the W.R. Grace Bankruptcy case.

Source: Jamison, M. (28 Oct. 2008). "Deadline for asbestos insulation claims is Oct. 31." Missoulian. B1.

Brunner v. Ohio Republican Party

From the Associated Press: "The Supreme Court sided Friday with Ohio's top elections official in a dispute with the state Republican Party over voter registrations.

"The justices overruled a federal appeals court that had ordered Ohio's top elections official to do more to help counties verify voter eligibility."

The Supreme Court opinion in Brunner v. Ohio Republican Party has been posted on the Supreme Court website.

Source: Associated Press (17 Oct. 2008). "High court rejects GOP in Ohio voting dispute: Republicans had won order that state do more to check eligibility." MSNBC.com

GAO Letter on Plum Creek

From the Missoulian: "Executives at Plum Creek Timber Co. say they already enjoy a driveway across public lands, but the federal laws they're leaning on to make that case might not support their weight.

"So says the Government Accountability Office, which released a letter Friday raising several questions about a controversial land use plan brokered privately between the company and Agriculture Undersecretary Mark Rey."

The GAO letter has been posted on the Missoula County Rural Initiatives website. The letter references the 1964 National Forest Roads and Trails Act, Public Law 88-657 (78 Stat 1089). The text of the law is contained in the Statutes at Large and can be accessed at any federal depository library.

Source: Jamison, M. (11 Oct. 2008). "GAO questions Plum Creek land deal." Missoulian. A1.