The response to slumping gasoline use would likely mean higher prices for drivers. Consumer advocates want regulators to examine the firms' plans.

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The union representing Los Angeles police officers said Wednesday that a parolee with 19 arrests and four convictions underscores how laws meant to ease prison overcrowding could pose a serious -- and ongoing -- threat to public safety. Ezra Hooker Sr. was arrested Jan. 5 after allegedly pointing a rifle at a prostitute and leading LAPD officers on a high-speed chase on South Los Angeles freeways.

All of the dead were Pakistanis employed by World Vision, which has been helping victims of a devastating 2005 earthquake in the country's north.

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A preliminary investigation into the death of former child actor Corey Haim found he died early Wednesday morning of an apparent drug overdose, sources said.

The nation's exports grow for the third consecutive month compared with a year earlier. Critics of China's artificially low currency are expected to increase demands for a hike in its value.

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