Texas needs rain! We are in a terrible drought and it is causing all kinds of problems for us. Wildfires are breaking out across the state and farmers are losing an entire season of crops. While in the urban areas we worry about our yards and green grass, the farmers are suffering serious setbacks that may take years to recover. It is frightening.

Due to the wildfires and severe drought conditions, the Governor has actually had to call on the natural disaster funds offered by the federal government. We know it pains him deeply to do this as he has made it perfectly clear that he detests the federal government and their spending.

Yet, even he has had to swallow his pride to help our very thirsty state through this difficult time.

Meanwhile, there’s a drought in Austin too. We have a “Rainy Day Fund” that was created to help the state through difficult times. The fund has set aside reserves that are designated to be used only when it “rains”. The Governor, Lt. Governor, and Speaker of the House have determined we are in a “drought” in Austin and don’t need “rainy day” funds.

Actually, this is not completely true. They have agreed that $3 billion dollars could be accessed from the more than $9 billion dollar fund to help cover a budget shortfall.

Some State Senators would like to access an additional $3 billion from the fund to lessen the pain of cuts to public and higher education, elder care and more. Their request has been shot down from the leadership and would not likely gain support on the House side of the Legislature.

Thus, we are in a drought in Austin too. We are facing a serious drought of funds that will “dry up” education, nursing homes, and so much more.

The Governor asked us all to pray for rain last weekend. Well, I’m praying for rain to fall on the land and for revenue to fall from higher gas prices and sales taxes to help us meet the budget demands of our state government.

Does anyone see any raindrops?