This paper focuses on state school financing systems based on the wealth of the state as a whole rather than on the wealth of a student's parents, neighborhood, or community. Studies highlight the fact that when the choice between programs and operations is debated, capital needs become the priority concern. The needed dollars and lack of state-level commitments may be even greater than estimates indicated. It is becoming increasingly more difficult to divert state and national dollars toward public education. There can be no effective plan to garner additional fiscal resources, when every district in every state fights a singular battle. Suggested is a national study for the collection of baseline data, ongoing longitudinal analysis involving issues related to the improvement of the infrastructure, and assistance in the prevention of resource-draining litigation while continuing to monitor and promote educational equity, adequacy, and fiscal economy at the local, state, and national levels. Appended are 34 references. (SI)