Maine bottom in Forbes rank for third time
Forbes magazine has again ranked Maine last in its list of the best states for business.
The magazine cites a high corporate tax and a gloomy economic growth forecast (1.4% projected annual job growth rate through 2016 and 2.5% projected growth in gross state product) as a part of the rating that, for the third year in a row, puts it at the bottom of the list. The ranking sparked responses from Maine's leaders about the state's economic course.
Gov. Paul LePage issued a written response to the Forbes rating Wednesday, saying that he was "disappointed but not surprised."
LePage said the state has to "get serious about lowering energy costs, improving education and paying our bills."
The state's top Democrat, Senate President Justin Alfond, told the Portland Press Herald that he takes the ranking as an indication that LePage's policies are not working.
The top three states for business in the Forbes ranking this year were Utah, for the third year in a row, Virginia and North Dakota. The ranking was based on business costs, labor supply, regulatory environment, current economic climate, growth prospects and quality of life.
Read more
Most Recent
Most Recent
Comments