Many Republicans elected to various state legislatures around the country in 2010 have set their sights on reducing or even eliminating state income taxes.

"I think there's going to be more action that way," said Kim Rueben, state taxation expert at the Brookings Urban Tax Policy Center, especially as Republican governors release their budget plans.

Oklahoma plans to cut the top income rate gradually to make the state more attractive to businesses and spur economic growth.

"Our goal is to transform Oklahoma into the best place to do business, the best place to live, find a quality job, raise a family, and retire in all of the United States. Not just better than average, but the very best," state Rep. Leslie Osborn said.

In Ohio, Gov. John Kasich promised to phase out the state's personal income tax. But he didn't give a timetable.

Republican lawmakers in Kansas, Maine, and South Carolina are also taking action against state income taxes.

However, economists warn there must be a way for states to make up for the lost revenue or suffer the consequences.

In all but nine states, income taxes pay for government services, including roads and bridges, schools, and prison systems.