State workers under pressure to keep up with soaring unemployment

Apr 10, 2020
The incredible surge in claims is putting a huge amount of pressure on the public service workers processing them.
An unemployment agency office is currently closed because of COVID-19 in Detroit, Michigan on March 26, 2020.
Jeff Kowalsky/AFP via Getty Images

States increase spending at fastest clip since the recession

Nov 21, 2019
States spent money on education, infrastructure and transportation.
Sean Gallup/Getty Images

Illinois cuts off funding for its public universities

Mar 18, 2016
A budget fight has left both schools and students in the lurch.
Inside the Chicago State University student union, where banners for a recent gathering highlight some of the schools core values.
Nova Safo/Marketplace

States recover, but can't go on a spending spree

Feb 19, 2016
The states' economies are improving, but unevenly.
Pumpjacks near Watford City, North Dakota. States like North Dakota and Alaska that boomed when oil prices were high are now hurting.
Andrew Burton/Getty Images

Sales tax holidays: A lot of hype for a little saving

Aug 13, 2014
They're bad for budgets, but Americans love our state sales tax holidays.

State budgets are doing better, but will they spend the new income?

Apr 30, 2013
State tax receipts have rebounded and are set to exceed the pre-recession peaks. After severe budget cutbacks, states are spending the new money on...what?

Governor Jerry Brown on balancing California's budget

Jan 16, 2013
The governor of California discusses state budgets and California's fiscal prospects heading into 2013.

For public good, not for profit.

Amid budget battle, Georgia archives to stay open

Oct 22, 2012
As Georgia confronts budget cuts, residents fights to keep the state archives funded.

Tax surpluses for many states

Feb 27, 2012
Amid gloomy reports of government budget deficits, there was some good news at the National Governors Association meeting in Washington. State tax revenue has been rising at the fastest pace since 2006. Many states are even reporting surpluses.

Minnesota in the black -- for now

Dec 2, 2011
An unexpected budget surplus sees Minnesota in the black...at least for now.