A growing number of states don't want to be part of free-trade pacts that block their purchasing preferences.

Cracked concrete and calls for walkability are pushing cities to focus on long-neglected pavement.

Republicans may be suspicious of federal power, but they're imposing it on states and localities every chance they get.

Although voters' reactions to ballot measures in November didn't signal a taxpayer revolt, there is still growing momentum in some states to respond to budget pressures and the weak economy by enacting spending limits. Property taxes are a perennial source of discussion.

When state legislators move up to the U.S. Congress, they seem to forget their roots.