An Inquiry into the Nature and Causes of the Wealth of States

Poor people can't spend themselves into wealth. Similarly, as huge segments of the population have long suspected, a higher tax burden doesn't lead to prosperity at the state level. Seems simple enough to many, but this little piece of wisdom has been the subject of loud debate. An Inquiry into the Nature and Causes of the Wealth of States is putting that debate to rest with a cogently presented, meticulous analysis of the facts. By looking at quantitative data from all 50 U.S. states, the authors have put together a solid case for lower state income taxes and decreased tax burdens. Wealth doesn't stay put. Businesses and individuals in upper economic strata go where their interests are protected. The result? As this book demonstrates, almost every measure of economic prosperity at the state level-population, employment, and beyond-is linked to taxation. Low-tax states in every region of the country are outperforming their neighbors. In all kinds of economic weather, states need to become competitive or risk urban dilapidation, population shrinkage, decreases in quality of living, and worse. In An Inquiry into the Nature and Causes of the Wealth of States, lucid quantitative analysis supports the argument that wealth-friendly policies at state and local levels are the key to maintaining prosperity for everyone. These policies extend far beyond the personal income tax rate to include corporate income taxes, estate taxes, the overall tax burden, right-to-work laws, and much more. Add it all up, and states won't be able to ignore this airtight case for tax reform.