2nd Best State to do Business In



		Forbes Magazine: Washington Ranked 2nd Best State To Do Business In a national study released in 2009, Forbes magazine ranked Washington 2nd of the 50 “best states for business” just behind Virginia. Washington moved up one spot from its rank of 3rd nationally in Forbes’ 50-state survey in 2006. Forbes noted that, “A common theme with our top-ranked states is an expanding, educated workforce. The three states that followed Virginia in the rankings (Washington, Utah and Colorado) also ranked in the top four along with Virginia in our labor supply category, which looks at high school and college attainment, as well as net migration and projected population growth.” These numbers are a clear indication that Washington’s capacity for doing business is on the rise. President of the Association of Washington Business Don Brunell commented on the Forbes article stating, “During these tough economic times, a second-place Forbes ranking is encouraging news and hopefully will cause employers looking to invest in modernizing or building new facilities to look at Washington as a place to create new jobs and opportunities.” Also, Governor Chris Gregoire commented on the ranking stating, “I am delighted that Washington increased its position in the Forbes.com rankings. Our high ranking is a testament to Washington’s strong workforce training programs, our schools, the ingenuity of the state’s companies, our superior global ties and our desirable quality of life.” The governor continued, “The Forbes.com ranking showcases the collaborative work of state and local agencies to promote economic development and grow jobs throughout Washington. But make no mistake, we are not resting on our laurels. I pledge to continue to work closely with state, business and labor leaders to further improve our competitiveness climate and become the best state in the nation to do business.” While Governor Gregoire is pleased by the Forbes ranking, it only confirms the progress that Washington is making on numerous fronts during these tough economic times. For instance: • Despite the difficult economic times, Washingtonians are working. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Washington has, one of the lowest unemployment rates in the nation; Details... • Washington businesses and workers can rest assured that the workers compensation system is sound despite the tough economic times; Details... • Washington State lawmakers are working diligently to offset devastating cuts in services that further core public priorities– such as ensuring that we have a highly educated and competitive workforce, that we maintain good public health, and that we live in safe communities; Details (PDF)... • We are saving for the future - with $1.2 billion in reserves, including $226.5 million in a constitutionally protected rainy day account that voters this year have a chance to approve; Details (PDF)... • Many new projects are on the rise in this state creating employment opportunities. The 520 Floating Bridge Pontoon Project is one of those; Details... Governor Gregoire is acutely aware of changing economic trends and is planning ahead so that we can continue to provide our citizens the vital services that keep our economy thriving. The Rainy Day Fund that she introduced and worked to move through Legislative approval helps achieve that goal – but so, too, do her investments in health care, education and job growth.