More than 100 Texas doctors made a deal with the state: For four years, they would practice in underserved communities and treat the neediest patients — in return for having their medical school debt forgiven. The source of the funding comes from an enhanced tax on smokeless tobacco; but, just a year into the arrangement, and facing a multibillion-dollar shortfall, state officials could be backing down on their side of the bargain — and directing the smokeless tobacco revenue to help balance the budget instead.

Texas Tribune