Only seven states expected to miss budget forecasts
The Washington Post
All but seven states are expected to meet or beat budget forecasts by the time this fiscal year is over, according to a survey of state legislative fiscal officers in every state, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. And while spending is over budget in 22 states, the overspending is modest.  NCSL research cited.
NCSL state budget update

Marijuana trade offered credit relief in Colorado
The New York Times
Seeking to move its growing marijuana industry away from the risk of using only cash, Colorado finalized plans this week to create the nation’s first financial cooperatives for the marijuana trade.

Ohio Senate OKs pausing green-energy standards
The Columbus Dispatch
The Ohio Senate  passed a two-year pause in annual increases in the state’s “green” energy standards, following days of negotiations with Gov. John Kasich’s office and in spite of adamant opposition.

Pa. governor won't appeal voter ID decision
Reuters
Pennsylvania Governor Tom Corbett said on Thursday he would not appeal a court ruling that struck down a controversial law requiring registered voters to show photo identification.
NCSL research on voter ID

Wisconsin to lift limits on campaign giving
Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel
Wisconsin election officials acknowledged in federal court Thursday they could not enforce a state law that limits the amount donors can give to all candidates to $10,000 a year, in light of a recent U.S. Supreme Court ruling.

Alaska gets go-ahead to reintroduce wood bison
Anchorage Daily News
After almost two decades of preparation, it looks like wood bison will finally be reappearing in the Alaska wilderness.