In a speech before Maryland’s General Assembly, Governor Martin O'Malley urged legislators to make job creation a top priority during session by encouraging legislation that would enable a tax credit for employers who hire unemployed people and that would expand a loan program for small businesses.

Signed on December 31st, Senate Bill 1894 is designed to increase the education requirements for real estate agents in Illinois and expand anti-predatory lending programs. This new legislation recently took effect in the New Year.

Despite ongoing concerns with some payday lending practices in many states, there still exists a need for quick, small-dollar loans. In response to this need, Virginia has established the Virginia State Employee Loan Program. This unique pilot program partners Virginia’s Employee Assistance Fund with the Virginia Credit Union in hopes of providing safe small loans.

In Columbus, Ohio, Treasurer Kevin L. Boyce is calling for professional and nonprofit organizations to get the word out about the earned income tax credit. As of now experts believe up to one in five Ohioans may be eligible, but they do not know it!

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According to Oklahoma Policy Institute’s David Blatt, there are many effective ways lower income citizens may start asset building. One recommendation is opening state-funded college savings plans at birth and providing incentives, such as matching contributions.

For more policy recommendations click here.