Nothing new. State e-filing from the desktop version has never been free. I have used the desktop version since 2000 and e-fileing state is always an additional charge.
You get 5 free Federal e-files and can print and mail as many state returns that you want. I have always e-filed Federal and mailed state for the cost of postage.
Don't confuse the desktop versions with the online versions where the cost of e-filing both state and Federal is factored into the cost of using the online software. The online versions are only good for one tax return so the online cost is usually much more if you have more than one return to file - even if you do pay the state e-file charge for the desktop.
And the 19.99 state efile charge always goes up to 24.99 in Mid March. So file before then.
There is a lot of confusion about this. For the Desktop versions Deluxe and above, it's a free download of one state preparation PROGRAM, not returns filed. You can prepare unlimited federal and unlimited state returns. Some people need to file in more than one state so they have to buy another state program at 39.99. You can print and mail the state for free or each state return (including the first one) is 19.99 until Mid March, then goes to 24.99.