It seems things are getting worse out in the states, almost by the day. The Center on Budget and Policy Priorities has released another update of their analysis first released last week, adding one more state (Illinois) to the list of states facing a budget crunch in 2009. Now there are 20 states that are projecting budget gaps in 2009. The updated summary stats from CBPP: More than half of states anticipate budget problems, according to this updated analysis of state fiscal conditions.

• 20 states now project budget gaps for 2009. Illinois joins this list.
• The combined budget shortfall for these 20 states in 2009 is now at least $34 billion.
• 5 states now say they will have 2009 deficits, but have released no further information.
• 3 other states project budget gaps for 2010 and beyond.

CBPP: 20 STATES FACE TOTAL BUDGET SHORTFALL OF AT LEAST $34 BILLION IN 2009