Louisiana Business Climate Number Nine in United States
Louisiana’s 2010 business climate is ranked ninth in the country by “Site Selection” magazine. The ranking moves the state up from 25th place in 2009, giving Louisiana the strongest surge compared to any other state in the listing.
“This terrific news is a reflection of Louisiana’s continued economic progress during a difficult national economic period,” said Louisiana Economic Development Secretary Stephen Moret in a statement. “Our dramatically improved ranking is in large part the result of recent economic competitiveness improvements in Louisiana, such as business tax cuts, governmental ethics reform, the creation of Louisiana FastStart and our focus on business retention and expansion, as well as our enhanced focus on small business development.”
“We’ve made incredible progress and created an environment that is fostering opportunity for our people, but we’ve got more work to do so that all of our sons and daughters can pursue their dreams here at home,” Gov. Bobby Jindal. “Indeed, we’re on the right path and that means we must continue to oppose tax increases and reduce government spending so that we can retain jobs and attract thousands more for our people.”
North Carolina continues to be the top state in the country when it comes to Site Selection’s business climate rankings. The Tar Heel state has held the No. 1 position for the last nine of 10 years. Tennessee placed second this year, followed by Texas, Virginia and South Carolina.
The rankings are based half on performance of the state in Conway Data's New Plant Database, which tracks new and expanded business facility activity, and 50 percent by a survey of corporate site seekers across the country. The Conway New Plant Database tracks projects costing at least $1 million, covering at least 20,000 square feet or employing 50 people.