Kansas Ranked #26 In The Nation In Economic Outlook

The Jayhawk State works to improve free market policies to benefit Kansans

Arlington, VA (April 18, 2017) – Kansas is ranked 26^th in the nation in economic outlook according to recently released data by the American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC). The annual publication Rich States, Poor States: ALEC-Laffer State Economic Competitiveness Index found Kansas managed to improve its economic outlook ranking by one place, rising from 27^th to 26^th in the most recent edition of the report, despite finding itself in the middle of the pack. The publication is celebrating its 10th edition with the launch of a new website that gives users the ability to compare and contrast economic trends of the last decade, featuring a new tool showing how particular policy adjustments can change the economic outlook ranking of an individual state.

State lawmakers have relied upon Rich States, Poor States as a guide for measuring the economic competitiveness of their states since 2008. The publication is authored by Dr. Arthur B. Laffer, a member of Ronald Reagan’s Economic Policy Advisory Board, Stephen Moore, distinguished visiting fellow at The Heritage Foundation, and Jonathan Williams, ALEC Chief Economist and Vice President of the ALEC Center for State Fiscal Reform.

“As we celebrate the 10^th edition of Rich States, Poor States, the presented data remains consistent in its message. State governments are constantly competing for Americans and jobs, and in this fast-moving environment, standing still is enough to get left behind,” said Jonathan Williams. “States that have adopted pro-growth policies have enjoyed robust economic expansion, with greater wage growth and more opportunities for citizens. The facts remain clear that pro-growth policies are working and there is a clear trend in favor of market-oriented reforms. Along with my co-authors, Dr. Art Laffer and Stephen Moore, I look forward to continuing this important work for years to come.”

OVERALL ECONOMIC OUTLOOK FOR 2017

According to www.richstatespoorstates.org, many states significantly improved or fell in the index. Delaware rose seven spots but still remains at a dismal 37^th. West Virginia also climbed six spots from 37^th to 31^st. On the other hand, Oklahoma dropped six places from 10^thto 16^th, whereas Wisconsin, Mississippi and Alaska all fell five places in the Index to 14^th, 22^nd and 30^th respectively.

Visit www.richstatespoorstates.org to see individual state data and to compare economic outlook over time. To speak with Jonathan Williams about the 10^th edition of Rich States, Poor States, or to participate in today’s media call, contact Taylor McCarty at [email protected].