Douglas reviews high court candidates
Governor Jim Douglas says he’s looking over a list of candidates to fill a vacancy on the Vermont Supreme Court. The governor says he could name an appointee within a few weeks to fill the first open seat on the bench since 1997. The vacancy occurred when Justice James Morse stepped down to take a position in the Douglas administration. (Listen to the story online or read the transcript.) (VPR)
Dean unveils national health care plan
Democratic presidential candidate Howard Dean has unveiled his own plan to provide health care coverage to millions of uninsured Americans. Dean says the proposal’s $88 billion price tag will be financed by rescinding part of President Bush’s tax cut. (Listen to the story online or read the transcript.) (VPR)
Legislators’ pay raise
By a two vote margin, the Vermont House has given its approval to a plan to boost legislative pay by 24% beginning in January 2005. The vote on the measure was 69 to 67. It’s been eight years since lawmakers have taken action to adjust their salaries. (VPR)
Book interview: ‘Burning Marguerite’
Neal Charnoff talks with Vermont author Elizabeth Innes-Brown about her new novel, “Burning Marguerite.” (Listen to the interview online.) (VPR)
Attorney fined for misconduct
A Bennington lawyer has been reprimanded for violating professional rules when he borrowed $16,500 from two clients. The Professional Conduct Board says Charles E. Capriola Junior repaid the money only after the clients asked other attorneys to help them collect it. (AP)
Marijuana laws in Canada
Canada’s parliament is expected to take up legislation later this week that is aimed at decriminalizing small amounts of marijuana. And some U.S. officials say that could mean longer waits at the border for Vermonters and other frequent visitors to Canada. (AP)
Phosphorous in Lake Champlain
Some Vermont businesses and environmental groups say they’ll be working together to help protect Lake Champlain. They’re planning to begin distributing a brochure today that details ways Vermonters can help reduce phosphorous runoff into the lake. (AP)