Now Republicans who control a majority of the state capitols in the United States face a far greater philosophical dilemma - what to do with all the money when an improving economy suddenly creates a surplus in revenues.

Republicans control both chambers of the Texas Legislature, but that hasn't kept them from reaching an impasse over the state budget.

The Democratic governor, who has pledged to maintain fiscal restraint and build a cash reserve, faces pent-up pressure from members of his own party. Democratic lawmakers want to spend the additional revenue to make up for years of budget cuts to programs serving women, children and the poor.

For the first time in recent years, New York state's pension fund exceeded its target rate of return, but E.J. McMahon, an analyst with the conservative Empire Center, cautioned that worse-than-targeted performance in recent years means the fund lost out on gains it should have booked.

From alligator marketing to rowing centers, the state budget has millions of dollars aimed at lawmakers' pet projects. The governor has until May 24 to approve or veto them.

New revenue would boost school spending and fund a property tax relief plan. GOP responded with scorn.

Kentucky's two-year budget calls for revenue growth of 2.4 percent this fiscal year, but meeting that target would require 3.6 percent revenue growth in May and June.

Presidents of public universities are taking home bigger paychecks, and a growing number are raking in more than $1 million.

Gov. Jay Nixon indicated Friday that he is likely to veto legislation that would cut Missouri's income taxes for businesses and individuals, saying he has serious concerns that it could jeopardize funding for essential government services.

In the state capitol, it's a battle over two bills, competing proposals brought forward by two of the state's top democrats to deal with our nearly $100 billion dollar pension problem.