Solve Budget Problems without Punishing Economy

In the Herald of Everett today, I look at the budget problems facing our state (and many others) and suggest that how we close the gap will set the stage for the next round of intense interstate economic competition.

Although global competition gets all the press, most business migration occurs between states. Interstate competition will intensify as states seek to rebuild sagging economies. Competitive states want to attract the new investment that creates jobs, stabilizes communities and, not incidentally, supports public services. Washington is already a high-cost state for business. Tax increases would accelerate the economic decline  ...

As a bonus, let me introduce you to a nice business blog I discovered recently, The Entrepreneurial Mind, written by Jeff Cornwall of Belmont University (site of the what's been called "the worst debate ever" - no fault to the school). Here he shares some good tips for small business and public policy.