Of course, the problem is broader than the multi-state and "student" returns.  The fees for doing a Fed + 1 State return are very high.  I could purchase a new copy of Turbotax instead of paying those REP fees.  While I get that Turbotax has scale working in its favor, the high cost of Lacerte is highly problematic.

That said, what you mention is a huge source of my unhappiness with the fees.  When I have a client who has K1s from all over the country or kids in college who are working, the state fees are disproportionate.  I really wish that they would at least charge a lower state fee for additional states.