Fiscal responsibility

As the nation's economic news continues to sour, Missouri has started its new fiscal year on July 1 in an enviable financial position: with a fund balance of $833 million. In addition, the state has been able to set aside $557 million in rainy-day reserves.

The surplus is due to higher-than-anticipated tax revenue in recent years accompanied by lower-than-budgeted spending.

Missouri is one of 15 states in relatively good financial shape. Most others -- Illinois is a good example -- face huge cuts in spending plans. And the potential of a financial downturn due to current economic conditions makes balanced budgets even more difficult.

Democrats are taking a lot of potshots at the Republican administration of Gov. Matt Blunt, which has made financial prudence a hallmark of the current state government.

There are good debates to be had over how the state should best use its resources. We hope the legislature engages in serious discussions about those needs. One big budget-buster on the horizon is funding for state highways.

But let's also give Governor Blunt and other state officials the credit they are due for being fiscally responsible and putting Missouri on solid ground regarding budgets.