CORRECTION: Washington state does not have a state income tax so it is in worst fiscal shape

A reader has rightly corrected me on my contention that Washington state has an income tax.

It does not.

So figures from the Wall Street Journal showing it with the greatest downfall in government tax revenue ahead of Tennessee are representative of two states painted into a fiscal corner for the current budget year.

It is obvious Tennessee needs a state income tax that will reduce the tax burden on two-thirds of this state's residents instead of everyone paying one of the highest sales tax rates in the nation, including on food.

A state income tax with an accompanying reduction in sales tax is fair and fiscally prudent. But with Republicans now in control of both houses, such a change may be politically impossible. And Gov. Bredesen will simply cut programs that address the needs of the most vulnerable among us.

Again, thanks to the reader for the correction. And I apologize to each of you for providing wrong information.