Michigan has been named “Most Improved State” in the annual Top 10 Pro-Business States report from the American Economic Development Institute and Pollina Corporate Real Estate Inc.
The report — which ranks all 50 states based on their ability to support America’s middle class based on the retention and creation of jobs — saw Michigan’s ranking jump to No. 18, up from No. 39 the previous year.
“Michigan’s Most Improved State status reflects state political leadership that has come to grips with 21st century international competition for jobs and business investment,” says Brent Pollina, vice president of Pollina and co-author of the study. “The rapid improvement of (Michigan) reflects solid economic development planning and implementation along with consistent legislative political support.”
Pollina credits the state’s passing of Right to Work legislation and its repeal of the Michigan Business Tax as key factors in Michigan’s improvement.
“Once again, the nation is taking notice of the bold reforms now driving Michigan forward,” says Michael A. Finney, president and CEO of the Michigan Economic Development Co.
The state’s improved rank pushed it ahead of other top population states, including Georgia (ranked 22), Ohio (23), Texas (27), New York (30), Pennsylvania (39), Illinois (49), and California (50). North Carolina and Florida finished ahead of Michigan at Nos. 11 and 15, respectively.
To view the full list of rankings, click here
