US state deficits: Minding the gap

The worst recession since the 1930s has caused the steepest decline in US state tax receipts on record, according to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities. From California to Vermont, states have grappled with several years of budget deficits. In spite of steep cuts to education, public safety and entitlements, closing public parks and shuttering libraries and prisons, gaps have reopened almost as quickly as lawmakers can close them.

The following graphic examines each state’s budget gap for 2011 compared with 2008 as well as the credit ratings for each state. Listen to Nicole Bullock explain the US fiscal crisis by clicking on the play button near her picture.

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