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CNBC calls Idaho 'most improved' for business

Gov. C.L. "Butch" Otter
Over the course of the recent "Great Recession," Idaho has made some very difficult choices to ensure our citizens are not saddled with the kind of crippling debt that our federal government continues to place on the backs of future generations. It hasn't been easy to cut several hundred million dollars out of our State budget, but the alternative was to raise taxes when Idahoans were least able to afford it. I remain committed to providing our citizens with a State government that lives within the people's means, because it's the right thing to do - and it works!

Our bond rating now is better than the federal government's. We have cut back on some things that are "nice," but maintained and preserved the things that are necessary.

Last week, CNBC released its annual report on the "Best States for Business." It found what we already knew: that Idaho is America's "most improved state for business." The report cited Idaho as having extremely low costs, a great work force and a business-friendly regulatory climate. It did cite some room for improvement on taxes, and I wholeheartedly agree.

Idaho jumped from 31st to 13th in the CNBC rankings in one year. It's gratifying to see that others are noticing the sacrifices and difficult choices we have made in Idaho to balance our budget, give our citizens some modest tax relief and even have a little money left over to shore up our "rainy day" accounts. I couldn't be prouder, and with your help we'll keep on improving in the years to come.