North Dakota is eyeing changes to the retirement plan offered to state employees. Future hires would be moved to a "defined contribution" plan, but there are concerns it would negatively affect the ability to attract workers. Conservative-leaning groups such as Americans for Prosperity, as well as the bill sponsors, say the North Dakota Public Employees Retirement System has an unfunded liability of $1.8 billion. .
Some older patients with diabetes are now getting easier access to insulin. But there is concern many younger ones are still navigating a difficult path in managing their situation, including an outspoken Wisconsin health care worker. The average cost of insulin nearly tripled between 2002 and 2013, according to The American Diabetes Association. .
Studies show the tax burden on people and businesses in Illinois - and particularly those in Chicago - is among the highest in the country. Economists warn that unless lawmakers change how they write budgets, Illinois is likely to continue its decade-long exodus of residents and businesses. Reports show that the median Illinois household has a tax liability of $9,500, while Chicago s debt per taxpayer is almost $42,000. .
By Matthew DeFour for Wisconsin Watch.Broadcast version by Mike Moen for Wisconsin News Connection reporting for Wisconsin Watch-Public News Service Collaboration Republican lawmakers have authorized an audit of the state Department of Safety and Professional Services after years of rejecting Democratic Gov. Tony Evers’ requests to add staff — a standoff that has led to long waits for licenses, a huge surplus of agency funds and frustrated applicants flooding legislative offices with pleas for help. Sara Wuorinen, 32, is one of those applicants. .
A broad coalition of New Hampshire faith and community leaders is calling on state lawmakers to create a budget which serves the people. The New Hampshire Peoples Budget Coalition said Gov. Chris Sununu s proposed two-year and nearly $15 billion budget does not address the needs of those struggling to get by on minimum wage, find housing or pay off student debt. .