Right. That's what I said. You get taxed where you earn the money. If you aren't in California when you earn the money then you don't pay California tax. If you are in California when you earn the money then you pay California tax. (I know there are reciprocity laws among some of the states but there aren't between California and Texas.)

ok I misunderstood what you meant by "where [you earn it]". Still though, things get more complicated when you have residence in state A and spend a significant portion of your time working in state B. You're paying taxes which go to other people, regardless of whether or not you benefit partially. My kids don't get better schools, my family doesn't get better healthcare, etc.