Cash-strapped states are trying to tap into American Indian gambling revenues but aren't always hitting the jackpot. While California struck a deal with five tribes this year that will mean millions of additional dollars for state coffers, Minnesota, thus far, has struck out in its bid to get a share of tribes take. At stake for states are billions in untaxable revenues an estimated $16.7 billion pulled in by Indian-run casinos and tribal gaming in 2003. more

Although much-loved by fiscal conservatives, e-Texas -- the states money-saving and efficiency program -- is under assault from the Republican-dominated Legislature. more

Since the George Washington quarter first rolled off the presses in 1932, the coins design has remained largely unchanged until recently. But thanks to the U.S. Mints 50 state quarters program, thats no longer the case. Midway through an eight-year initiative that began in 1999, 24 states have put their imprint on the tail side of the coin. more

Despite doling out $20 billion in fiscal aid to state governments, President Bush's $350 billion tax cut bill will drive down total state tax collections by at least $1 billion and as much as $3 billion over the next two years, dampening the bill's positive impact on state coffers, analysts say. more