When you're not sure how - or if - the bills will get paid, it can create a stressful situation.
That's what the state of West Virginia is experiencing. In January, the Senate approved moving millions from various accounts, including more than $51 million from the state's Rainy Day fund, to aid in bill payments.
Meanwhile, the state's projected revenue shortfall totals nearly $820 million for fiscal years 2016 and 2017.
Although the legislative session has reached the halfway mark, lawmakers haven't yet taken up the budget bill or any legislation aimed at closing the deficit, the Gazette-Mail's Phil Kabler reported.
Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin, a former Senate Finance Committee chairman, on Thursday expressed frustration. He said the Legislature has spent too much time on "divisive" bills - such as right-to-work and prevailing wage repeal - and not enough time addressing budget concerns.
"During my tenure here, I've always tried to be fiscally responsible and do what's right for the sate, and for the people of the state," Tomblin said.
That much is true. Tomblin deserves credit for shoring up the state's Rainy Day Fund that has resulted in increased bond ratings. He's also implemented across-the-board budget cuts in the past to help fend off some of the very budget concerns we're experiencing now. He and the Development Office have worked to attract business to West Virginia and help the ones already here to expand.
The governor isn't the only one who sees the purse strings tightening. The Legislature knows the budget is a priority, but wants to give the budget its due diligence.
House Speaker Tim Armstead admitted "this is not a normal budget year" and points to coal's decline and PEIA funding as complicating factors.
"As a result, we have to do our duty to balance our budget and to carefully weigh the state's revenue needs versus the question of whether our taxpayers can absorb any further tax increases at this time," he said in a statement. "This is an important process, and we shouldn't rush it just to calm the governor's nerves."
Traditionally, the Legislature meets for an additional week after the regular session ends to focus solely on the budget bill. That gives lawmakers the time to diligently review budget proposals, offer their input and ultimately approve a spending plan for the next fiscal year without the added distraction of other legislation.
Pointing fingers and accusing the Legislature of misusing its time won't help West Virginia's fiscal problems. Although today's budget woes are arguably more severe than those of years past, the governor and Legislature must work together efficiently and responsibly to solve the problem.