The state of Arizona, now running a $3 billion budget deficit, is planning to sell up to 32 government properties for quick cash — possibly including its House and Senate office buildings. The Christian Science Monitor reports:

… the sales could put between $350 million and $700 million into state coffers this year – but it’s a quick fix. The state would pay between $60 million and $70 million to lease back many of the properties, meaning the transactions will cost taxpayers more in the long run.

Is this an idea whose time has come to Massachusetts? Perhaps Gov. Patrick could raise some revenue and rid himself of a political rival, convenience store magnate Christy Mihos, by selling him the State House. The Legislature could then hold late-night sessions with easy access to Slurpees and microwaved burritos.