Here in California, we're paying for years of deficit spending by selling bonds, including, astonishingly, current spending.
On top of that, in a few days california voters will vote on billions$ more... for more of the same; ignoring of course, the existing debt that must also be paid for.
All for expenses that, in more rational days, was funded as-you-go from the traditional taxing system: real estate, sales, excise and special taxes earmarked for specific purposes such as highways, dams, levees, local streets, all of which have been diverted for a "higher purpose".
What is the higher purpose? To increase the number of citizens dependent directly on government for their existence (and their votes). When the percentage of producing taxpayers falls below public employees and aid recipients, what will be the escape out of the hole?
Pennsylvania would do well to look to california to see a state financial Titanic in the making.
They could look right next door; to New York.