No Income Tax States Outperform High Tax States

American Legislator ^ | 4-8-15 | Will Freeland

[ThethoughtsofGreg]

Public policy matters to economic performance. Economic theory and data have established this link clearly. Most notably, limited government, free market policies that unlock the creative potential entrepreneurs and small business matter deeply to state economic health. Rich States, Poor States, released today and now in its 8th year, compares the 50 states public policy climate to see which states are most poised for growth.

Utah again earns the top spot for states with the best economic outlook, followed by North Dakota, Indiana, North Carolina and Arizona, according to the newest edition of Rich States, Poor States. New York comes in dead last, followed by Vermont, Minnesota, Connecticut, and New Jersey.

The report also revealed many states significantly improved or fell in the rankings. Kentucky was the biggest winner in the rankings this year and improved by nine spots. Illinois came in second for largest improvements by climbing eight spots, while Oklahoma improved by five spots and Wisconsin by four spots. On the other hand, Michigan was the biggest loser this year and fell in the rankings by 12 spots. Delaware fell 11 spots, Pennsylvania fell eight spots and South Dakota fell seven spots. Wisconsin, North Carolina and Indiana’s high rankings are notable behind significant pro-growth reform in recent years.

[thorvaldr]

Indiana is pretty close to the top. Maybe gay wedding pizzas are bad for the economy.

[familyop]

Without an income tax, other taxes will be higher. Real conservatives will end property taxes and regulations against residential building and manufacturing, then start businesses. Why work for queer CEOs?

[ExCTCitizen]

Connecticut, do better, New York is beating you...so is Vermont...

Don't you want to be #1 in something besides women's basketball? /s