From NPR: The Senate passed legislation yesterday that would do away with direct payments to farmers and instead create an expanded crop insurance program. It's designed to protect farmers from losses, but some say it amounts to a highly subsidized gift to agribusiness.
Kentucky: Gov. Steve Beshear has told President Barack Obama Kentucky wants to explore industrial hemp production. A coalition of western Kentucky utility consumers has launched a radio ad campaign to oppose a proposed rate increase sought by Big Rivers Electric Corp. Kentucky State Police say the statewide highway death toll is down from a year ago. Gov. Steve Beshear is praising educators and others for their part in improving the state's graduation rate. An independent political group that backed David Williams' failed bid to become Kentucky governor has paid a $4,500 fine.
Tennessee: State Senator Mark Green has been appointed to the Council of State Government Interbranch Affairs Committee.
Illinois: Nearly 30,000 Illinois borrowers soon will receive checks as part of a landmark multistate settlement with five U.S. banks over foreclosure abuses. Gov. Pat Quinn is asking lawmakers to approve both rival plans on how to solve the state's nearly $100 billion pension crisis.