For years, critics of state finances have said government should run more like a business. OK, let's see how that works.

When companies are short of revenue, they first look at how to boost sales. Makes good financial sense to go out and attract more business, draw in new customers, maybe even raise prices while staying competitive.

And companies look at their expenses. Are there better ways to run the operation that would save money.

The absolutely last thing a well-run company would do is pay out more of its dwindling cash to shareholders. Higher dividends are paid from profits, not dream...