81.  If that happens, Missouri would become the first state to effectively un-legalize casino gambling.

82.  If it is upheld, Hawaii would become the first state to legally recognize same-sex marriages.

83.  Illinois is the first state to enact legislation that lets state commissions enforce such agreements.

84.  If their efforts are successful, Massachusetts could become the first state in the nation to let the industry operate on its own.

85.  In a landmark decision, California has become the first state in the nation to give gay and lesbian parents the same tax benefits as heterosexual mothers and fathers.

86.  In April, Massachusetts became the first state to ban picture tubes found in televisions and computer monitors from landfills and incinerators.

87.  In April, the Assembly and the Senate passed a bill that would have made New York the first state to set fire-safety standards for cigarettes.

88.  In an unprecedented alliance, Uzbekistan last week became the first former Soviet state to allow U.S. troops to operate out of its territory.

89.  In April, however, Oregon became the first state to observe Christian Heritage Month.

90.  In January, New York became the first state to pass a law to regulate in-line skating, frequently called Rollerblading, after the major brand name.