Robert Tanner

of the AP reports on the budget messes in other states. He notes that tax increases and fees are the rule in states which are getting screwed by George W. Bush and his followers in Congress:

"So far, of the 21 states with budgets signed into law for the fiscal year that begins in July for all but four states, Americans will pay $4.3 billion in new taxes and $2.3 billion in new fees.

"Another $14 billion in proposed taxes and $2.4 billion in possible fees remain on the table in 29 states, including some of the most expensive proposals in states like California, Connecticut and Pennsylvania. In 10 of those states, legislatures have passed spending plans but governors have not yet signed them.

...

"While states scramble for money, the federal government is cutting taxes. What does that mean to the average American? Some will pay more to their state than they get back from Washington, others will come out ahead--depending on where they live and their habits, like smoking, drinking or speeding..."

And so on it goes while the country is spiraling downward to a cut rate, third world country.