As I noted over a year ago, the coming state budget deficits were going to bring both spending cuts and new taxes.  Budget battles are inherently bloody.  As state budgets are being reviewed, the spotlight is being shone on the pay, health care and pension benefits of government employees in some states. 

Here is an article highlighting some of the costs in several cash strapped states.  Some government employees will have to accustom themselves to pay and benefits that are more like the average wages and benefits of the taxpayers.