Georgia experiences revenue increase

Georgia's tax collections grew slightly in January, with figures up 0.7 percent this year compared with the same month last year, according to data Gov. Nathan Deal released Wednesday.

So far state revenue has increased by 4.5 percent -- or $420 million -- for fiscal year 2012, which began in July, over the same period in fiscal year 2011. The state collected $9.8 billion in taxes and fees during the first seven months of fiscal year 2012.

Still, some economists and others say the increased revenue will let Georgia meet only its basic obligations for education and health care. They say it will take years of strong growth to make up for previous spending cuts caused by the recession.