2/4: States face challenge of IT improvements

Stateline: A look at how states are dealing with IT improvements

Improving Information Technology systems at the state level is an issue facing most states these days. But many can't afford to update them, due to pressing budget problems. Some states have systems that are more than 30 years old and written in outdated computer code. Then there's the problem of slow computer networks, prone to crashes and agency incompatibility.

In Virginia, officials are a year behind on creating a new multi-agency IT infrastructure. It has suffered repeated network interruptions, adding to the cost of the five-year, $2.4 billion project.

However, in Georgia, revamping the IT structure seems to be on course. So far, the $1.2 billion, eight-year contract with IBM and AT&T has hit all of its deadlines with little difficulty. The vendors have successfully taken over the state’s IT infrastructure and are now in the process of consolidating all agencies into a single statewide system.

Also in the South:

ALABAMA: Editorial: Alabama needs water-saving strategy

ARKANSAS: State under hazardous weather warning today and Friday

FLORIDA: Opinion: Florida, we have a problem

GEORGIA: Gov. Perdue pushes conservation measures for long-term water savings

KENTUCKY: Gov. Beshear urges Pres. Obama to help protect coal states

LOUISIANA: State to privatize prisoner medications

MISSISSIPPI: State House votes to sell the state's private jet

NORTH CAROLINA: Settlement on "road to nowhere" to cost feds $52 million

SOUTH CAROLINA: Senate approves photo ID requirement for voting

TENNESSEE: State law protects elderly and disabled from abuse

VIRGINIA: State AG wants more outpatient treatment for mentally ill

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