An end to proration? Really?

In her inaugural speech, Lt. Gov Kay Ivey said there are "multiple methods" for ending proration in the state education budget. Ivey urged legislators to pick one approach and go with it.

But the Anniston Star found that for many of the power players, there's really only one option -- a 15-year rolling reserve budget. Critics say the plan would actually hold too much in reserve, keeping schools at pre-recession funding levels well into the new decade.

From the Anniston Star -- Can the new legislature end proration?

Robocall repellent

The Dothan Eagle looks at ways to avoid those nasty robocalls in the next election season.

From The Dothan Eagle – Residents may be able to avoid political calls

McGregor asks for separate trial

From The Dothan Eagle, a story about Victoryland Casino owner Milton McGregor’s request to be tried separately in the federal bingo probe.

From The Dothan Eagle – McGregor asks to be tried separately

Despite jobs order, Bentley puts hold on medical boards

In his Executive Order No. 2, Gov. Robert Bentley ordered all state agencies to make job creation their highest priority. In Executive Order No. 3, Bentley put a hold on the state board that gives hospitals the approval to expand. Is there a contradiction here?

From The Anniston Star -- Bentley puts medical boards on hold

Abortion foes upbeat

The Associated Press reports that opponents of abortion nationwide are hoping for tougher sanctions on abortion in the wake of the Republican wave of 2010. Many Alabama Republicans also pledged to curb abortion. How will it play out here?

From AP -- Abortion foes upbeat, see chance for tougher curbs

Riley aide to work for Hubbard

Josh Blades, once an aide to former Gov. Bob Riley, has been chosen as chief of staff to Rep. Mike Hubbard, the new speaker of the Alabama House of Representatives.

AP -- Riley aide to work for Hubbard

Bentley: State agencies must create jobs

In his inaugural address, Gov. Robert Bentley orders state agencies to make job creation their primary focus -- even if economic development isn't traditionally their main role.

From The Anniston Star -- Bentley: State agencies must create jobs