Index ranks Maine momentum ninth in nation
Maine has the ninth-highest momentum in the nation, according to an index that tracks state growth in population, income and employment.
State Policy Reports, a Washington, D.C.-based think tank, also ranked Maine highest in New England in its most recent quarterly State Economic Momentum index, according to Capitol News Service. The group found that Maine has the second-highest increase in personal income in the nation with a 1.5% hike, and that its employment drop of 1.1% was below the national average of 2.1%. Maine did receive poor marks, however, for being one of only two states in the country to see its population drop. Maine's population fell a slight 0.1%.
Gov. John Baldacci said the report was "encouraging." But University of Maine economics professor Jim Breece urged cautious optimism when considering the rise in personal income, which was partly attributed to an increase in federal transfers from extended unemployment benefits and other programs, according to the news service.
Go to the article from Capitol News Service >>
Most Recent
Most Recent
Comments