TIME HAS COME FOR STATES TO CONTROL SPENDING

Missouri isn't the only state that faces a fiscal crunch this year.

As of late February, 31 states reported they were spending more than they budgeted. As many as 23 states may cut budgets or reach into rainy day funds for the first time in years.

Missouri lawmakers are considering an $18.5 billion budget, continuing the annual upward spiral of spending. Lawmakers complain favorite projects won't get funded, and state employees may not get pay raises.

The Legislature and governor should get the message: The generosity must stop, and state government must operate with a lot more fiscal responsibility.