In an environmental initiative, California will force coal-burning plants selling power in the state to install eco-friendlier technology. In Illinois, music groups that misrepresent themselves as the original artists will face fines of up to $50,000. The new law requires live acts to make it clear in their advertising that they are a salute or a tribute band, rather than the real thing.

Dealing with imigration issues on its own, South Carolina will require nurses from other countries to have English-language proficiency to practice in the state. Illinois has delved into the area of eminent domain by requiring local governments to pay more and meet a higher legal threshold before seizing private property. North Carolina and Pennsylvania have set stricter campaign finance rules.

Alaska and South Carolina have passed legislation aimed at preventing harassment in schools. Alaska will provide training to help school systems prevent bullying, while South Carolina will require school districts to adopt policies banning harrassment and intimidation.

Wisconsin seeks to protect the rights of the wrongfully convicted by passing a law requiring law-enforcement agencies to record all interrogations of felony suspects, with either video or audio.

Alabama and West Virginia cut taxes on its poorest wage earners, while North Carolina lowered taxes on those in its highest tax bracket. New York and Oklahoma eliminated the marriage penalty that imposed higher taxes on married couples than on single people. South Dakota and Texas raised taxes on cigarettes.

Massachusetts' new health-care law hits a new milestone, allowing those earning up to 300 percent of the federal poverty level to buy into subsidized plans. (Those at or below the poverty level are already being signed up for virtually free health care.)