About

The Rich States, Poor States: ALEC-Laffer State Economic Competitiveness Index is a comprehensive report that ranks the economic competitiveness of states using fifteen equally weighted policy variables. Published annually by the American Legislative Exchange Council Center for State Fiscal Reform, Rich States, Poor States is used by state lawmakers across America to make critical policy decisions that protect hardworking taxpayers.

Rich States, Poor States examines the latest movements in state economic growth. Variables include various tax rates, regulatory burdens and labor policies.

Using the online companion tool available at RichStatesPoorStates.org, all Americans can use the same tool legislators have employed for a decade to adjust their state’s tax policy variables and find real solutions for economic security.

The American Legislative Exchange Council is the largest nonpartisan, voluntary membership organization of state legislators in the United States. The Council is governed by state legislators who comprise the Board of Directors and is advised by the Private Enterprise Advisory Council, a group of private, foundation and think tank members. For more information about the American Legislative Exchange Council, please visit: www.alec.org.    

    Rich States, Poor States 16th Edition

    The 16th edition of Rich States, Poor States: ALEC-Laffer State Economic Competitiveness Index is the latest in our annual series examining each state’s competitiveness and economic outlook. Used by lawmakers across the…
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