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A wildfire in southern New Mexico threatens to wipe out a tourist town's busy season, while mudslides from a two-year-old burn scar in the north have created a drinking water crisis in another.

Illinois lawmakers have approved a $40 billion state budget and a plan to address tax rates for a casino expansion during a whirlwind special session...

The outcome of the case could also hamstring the authority of all agencies, from the EPA to the Securities and Exchange Commission to Federal Reserve Board.

California law now permits pharmacists to sell many types of hormonal birth control methods without a doctor's OK. But good luck finding a drugstore that will dispense the contraceptives that way.

Former casino mogul Steve Wynn has been accused of rape, sexual assault and harassment. Still, politicians have continued to accept major campaign contributions from Wynn, who has denied wrongdoing.

California voters approve two ballot measures that will allow the state to borrow a record $15 billion and require a balanced budget. The vote is a major victory for Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger, who called the plan vital to the state's economic recovery and spent considerable time and money pushing for passage. Hear NPR's Ina Jaffe.

Legislators in Massachusetts give preliminary approval to an amendment to the state constitution that would ban gay marriage and legalize civil unions similar to those available in Vermont. The plan faces additional hurdles, including a state referendum in the fall of 2006. Hear NPR's Michele Norris and NPR's Tovia Smith.

The House of Representatives votes to increase the maximum fine for "indecent" content broadcast on radio or television. If approved by the Senate and the president, the maximum fine would jump from $27,500 to $500,000 for a broadcast outlet. Fines for on-air employees would also be raised to $500,000. NPR'S Larry Abramson reports.

The House passes legislation requiring food manufacturers to list common food allergens in plain English on their labels, a move already approved in the Senate. Some allergens, such as peanuts, can cause fatal reactions. President Bush is expected to sign the bill into law soon. Hear NPR's Julie Rovner.

Scott Simon talks to James French of the Montpelier Descendants Committee. It has gained structural parity in the administration of the Montpelier museum at President James Madison's home.