From: RGPPC

Re: Best Practices: Creating Jobs and Economic Opportunity

Date: December 2013

Republican governors believe that jobs are not created through government, but instead through the
ingenuity of entrepreneurs, innovators, and risk-takers. Government has a critical role in setting up a
framework that doesnt strangle job-creators with cumbersome and duplicative regulations, allows for the
efficient movement of capital, educates and trains employees and future business leaders, and builds the
infrastructure necessary for the transfer of goods and services. With national unemployment at 7.8
percent
1
and an ever increasing segment of the population losing faith in Americas future, job creation
has taken center stage in policy development in the states.

Catalyzing job creation requires an amalgamation of many different policies. Policy entrepreneurship
will be critical as policymakers work to create the right environment that allows enterprise to prosper.
The innovative policies that are covered in other chapters of this report contribute to this environment. In
this briefing we will focus on two critical drivers of economic growth: economic development policy and
infrastructure development and maintenance.

Featured states in this briefing include:

Transportation and Infrastructure
2013
o ALABAMA Governor Robert Bentley, Rural Assistance Match Program
o FLORIDA Governor Rick Scott, Public-Private Partnerships Bill
o GEORGIA Governor Nathan Deal, Facilitating Major Transportation Projects
o INDIANA Governor Mike Pence, Ohio River Bridges Project
o IOWA Governor Terry Branstad, Mississippi River Infrastructure, Connect Every Iowan
o NORTH CAROLINA Governor Pat McCrory, New Strategic Mobility Formula,
Expansion of Natural Gas & Propane for Agriculture
o NORTH DAKOTA Governor Jack Dalrymple, State Water Commission
o OHIO Governor John Kasich, Transportation and Safety Budget
o PENNSYLVANIA Governor Tom Corbett, JobsGateway, Innovate in PA
o SOUTH CAROLINA Governor Nikki Haley, Investing in Infrastructure
o TENNESSEE Governor Bill Haslam, Transportation Improvement Plan
o VIRGINIA Governor Bob McDonnell, Historic Transportation Funding Bill
2012
o ALABAMA Governor Robert Bentley, Alabama Transportation Rehabilitation and
Improvement Program

1
U.S. Department of Labor. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The Employment Situation - September 2012. 05 Oct. 2012.
Web. 05 Oct. 2012. http://www.bls.gov/news.release/empsit.nr0.htm.
o FLORIDA Governor Rick Scott, Prioritization of Port and Transportation Projects Vital
to International Trade
o INDIANA Governor Mitch Daniels, Ohio River Bridges Project, Major Moves
o IOWA Governor Terry Branstad, Road Use Tax Fund, I-689 Reconstruction Project
o NEW MEXICO Governor Susana Martinez, New Electronic Plan to Speed Up
Construction Permits
2011
o IOWA Governor Terry Branstad, Transportation Advisory Commission Report
o NORTH DAKOTA Governor Jack Dalrymple, Historic Investment Package for
Statewide Transportation Infrastructure
o VIRGINIA Governor Bob McDonnell, Office of Transportation Public-Private
Partnerships

Economic Development
2013
o INDIANA Governor Mike Pence, Law Benefiting Veteran-Owned Small Businesses
o IOWA Governor Terry Branstad, Reinvestment Districts, Manufacturing Week,
Empowering Individuals with Disabilities Through Employment Forum
o NEVADA Governor Brian Sandoval, Internet Gaming Legislation
o NEW JERSEY Governor Chris Christie, Economic Opportunity Act of 2013, Partnership
for Action
o NEW MEXICO Governor Susana Martinez, New Mexico Jobs Package, Bi-National
Community Master Plan
o OHIO Governor John Kasich, Workers Compensation Rebate
o OKLAHOMA Governor Mary Fallin, Workers Compensation Reform
o SOUTH DAKOTA Governor Dennis Daugaard, New Economic Development Program
o UTAH Governor Gary Herbert, Halfway to Jobs Goal; Your Utah, Your Future Initiative;
Utah Business Regulatory Review Phase II, Utah Cluster Acceleration Partnership
o TENNESSEE Governor Bill Haslam, Workers Compensation Reform Bill
o TEXAS Governor Rick Perry, Grant for Cell and Organ Biotechnology
2012
o ARIZONA Governor Jan Brewer, AZ Furnace, Legislation to Aid Small Businesses
o IOWA Governor Terry Branstad, High Quality Jobs Program, Employee Stock Option
Plans
o MICHIGAN Governor Rick Snyder, New International Trade Crossing Agreement
o MISSISSIPPI Governor Phil Bryant, Small Business Regulatory Flexibility Act, Health
Care Industry Zone Act
o NEVADA Governor Brian Sandoval, The Las Vegas Regional Economic Development
Council
o PENNSYLVANIA Governor Tom Corbett, Small Business Regulatory Reform Act
o TENNESSEE Governor Bill Haslam, Fast-track Program
o UTAH Governor Gary Herbert, Economic Development Coordinating Council
o VIRGINIA Governor Bob McDonnell, Accelerated Sales Tax Program Eliminations,
Mobile Business App
o WYOMING Governor Matt Mead, Data Center Initiative Bill
2011
o ARIZONA Governor Jan Brewer, The Arizona Competitiveness Package
o INDIANA Governor Mitch Daniels, Indiana Economic Development Corporation
o IOWA Governor Terry Branstad, Economic Development Authority, Executive Order
Requiring Jobs Impact Statement
o KANSAS Governor Sam Brownback, Rural Opportunity Zones Program
o MICHIGAN Governor Rick Snyder, Improvements to the Michigan Economic
Development Corporation, Pure Michigan Business Connect Program
o MISSISSIPPI Governor Haley Barbour, Tort Reform
o NEBRASKA Governor Dave Heineman, Talent and Innovation Initiative Programs
o NEVADA Governor Brian Sandoval, Review of State Regulations, Tax Abatements,
Jobs and Economic Growth Plan, Investing in Education
o NEW MEXICO Governor Susana Martinez, Tax Exemption for Locomotive Fuel,
Creation of Overweight Cargo Zone
o OHIO Governor John Kasich, Tax Incentive Legislation
o SOUTH CAROLINA Governor Nikki Haley, Right-to-Work Legislation, Unemployment
Benefit Reform, Tort Reform
o TENNESSEE Governor Bill Haslam, Tennessee Civil Justice Act, Jobs4TN Plan,
INCITE Program
o UTAH Governor Gary Herbert, Economic Development Coordinating Council, Post-
Performance Incentive Program
o VIRGINIA Governor Bob McDonnell, Opportunity at Work Agenda
o WISCONSIN Governor Scott Walker, Department of Commerce Reorganization
































Transportation and Infrastructure


2013

Alabama, Governor Robert Bentley
Press Release: Governor Bentley Signs Rural Assistance Match Program for Road and Bridge Projects
(04/18/13)
Gov. Robert Bentley signed into law Senate Bill 192, which will help more counties participate in the
largest road and bridge improvement program in Alabamas history. Senate Bill 192 establishes the Rural
Assistance Match Program (RAMP). RAMP will be available to counties that are unable to meet the 20
percent local funding match required to participate in ATRIP, the Alabama Transportation Rehabilitation
and Improvement Program. ATRIP was established by Governor Bentley in 2012 to help local areas
access funding needed for essential road and bridge improvements.

Florida, Governor Rick Scott
Law 360: Florida House Passes Public-Private Partnerships Bill (04/25/13)
The Florida House of Representatives passed a bill that would set up statewide guidelines for local
governments who want to enter into public-private partnerships, which are increasingly used to fund and
build a range of infrastructure and public facilities. Despite concerns voiced on the House floor about the
breadth of the legislation, the representatives voted 98-19 to approve (HB 85), which sets requirements
for bids, public notice, procurement and other procedures in agreements in which private entities finance
and construct public facilities, then run and collect revenue from them for a specific period of time.

Georgia, Governor Nathan Deal
Press Release: Deal signs bills that will facilitate major transportation projects (04/18/13)
On April 18, Gov. Nathan Deal signed House Bill 202, the congressional district balancing bill, and
Senate Bill 70, the Design Build best value bill, at the Atlanta Metro Chamber of Commerce. HB 202
waives the requirement to balance funds by congressional districts for all interstate improvements, certain
freight corridor projects and projects of regional significance. Under the new law, the state can move
forward on transportation priorities such as the managed lane plan and large interstate interchange
projects, and it can prepare for the increased freight flows from the deepening of the Savannah Harbor.

Indiana, Governor Mike Pence
Press Release: Governor Pence Announces Commencement of Construction on East End Crossing of
Ohio River Bridges Project (05/29/13)
Governor Mike and state and local officials to marked the long-awaited start of construction on the East
End Crossing of the Louisville-Southern Indiana Ohio River Bridges project. On a bluff overlooking
where the future East End Bridge will cross the Ohio River into Kentucky, Governor Pence checked off
another item on a task list that ends with the East End Crossing opening to traffic in 2016. Following an
efficient eight-month procurement process a local team was selected for its innovative proposal to design,
build, finance, operate and maintain the East End Crossing, which will connect State Road 265 in Indiana
with the Gene Snyder Freeway in Kentucky, completing a loop around the Louisville/Southern Indiana
metropolitan area. The proposal included a construction cost of $763 million, which was $224 million or
23 percent less than the project estimate of $987 million.

Update: Press Release: Bond Buyer Names East End Crossing as Deal of the Year for Midwest (11/6/13)
The Bond Buyer, a national publication covering the municipal bond industry, named the East End
Crossing of the Ohio River Bridges Project as its Deal of the Year for the Midwest region. In March
2013, the Indiana Finance Authority reached financial close with WVB East End Partners (WVB), a
consortium of Walsh Investors LLC, VINCI Concessions, and Bilfinger Project Investments.
Construction for the East End Crossing began in May 2013 and the bridge is scheduled to open to traffic
ahead of schedule in 2016.

Iowa, Governor Terry Branstad
Press Release: Engaging on the Importance of the Nations Inland Waterway System for the Movement
of Exports and Key Economic Inputs (2/7/13)
Governor Branstad hosted a meeting in Davenport, Iowa to discuss Mississippi River Infrastructure.
Representatives from the Army Corps of Engineers, business owners, state personnel, and several of the
congressional staff were present to discuss the problems surrounding the lock and dam systems on the
upper Mississippi River. The specific focus was how deteriorating infrastructure is impacting the
movement of goods on the Mississippi River and the Midwestern/national economies. Stakeholders want
to begin identifying a long-term, sustainable way to manage River infrastructure and improve the
systems operational efficiency to bolster the competitiveness of agricultural producers and manufacturers
in the region. The Iowa Department of Transportation recently followed-up with another stakeholder
meeting to develop a Mississippi River Action Plan.

Press Release: Connect Every Iowan (09/03/13)
Governor Branstad and Lt. Governor Reynolds unveiled their "Connect Every Iowan" initiative to
increase the access, adoption, and use of broadband technology. They tasked the existing STEM Advisory
Council's Broadband Committee with developing legislative recommendations to encourage broadband
build-out throughout Iowa, particularly in unserved or underserved areas. The committee was also asked
to develop a long-term strategic plan for broadband and to identify and pursue any outside funding
opportunities or public private partnerships. They set the goal of becoming the most connected state in
the Midwest according to the TechNet State Broadband Index.

North Carolina, Governor Pat McCrory
Press Release: Governor McCrory Signs New Strategic Mobility Formula into Law (06/26/13)
Governor McCrory signed the Strategic Mobility Formula, House Bill 817, into law, which will help the
North Carolina Department of Transportation use funding more efficiently. The new ten year formula will
fund at least 260 projects and create more than 240,000 jobs over the next ten years, a significant increase
over the 175 projects and 174,000 jobs of the previous plan. The Strategic Mobility Formula replaces the
states outdated Equity Formula and takes a tiered approach to funding transportation improvements, with
the statewide level receiving 40 percent of available funding ($6 billion), the regional level receiving 30
percent of available funding ($4.5 billion) and the division level also receiving 30 percent of available
funding ($4.5 billion) over the next 10 years. The new formula is scheduled to be fully implemented by
July 1, 2015.

Customer Service at the Division of Motor Vehicles
Governor McCrory has made North Carolinas Division of Motor Vehicles more customer friendly. DMV
has extended its hours and opened additional offices on the first Saturday of each month. More than 85%
of North Carolinians now live within 30 miles of an office offering extended hours.

Press Release: Governor McCrory Takes Action on Legislation (7/29/13)
Governor McCrory signed Senate Bill 379, Expansion of Natural Gas & Propane for Agriculture, into
law. This legislation allows for greater flexibility for state economic development funds to support
expanded natural gas and propane infrastructure for agricultural projects. This is pro-jobs, economic
development legislation that helps agribusiness grow through pipeline infrastructure expansion at a time
when we need it the most. This will be especially helpful for rural areas.

North Dakota, Governor Jack Dalrymple
Press Release: Dalrymple Signs Legislation for Human Services Water Supply, Flood Protection, and
Water Management Projects (05/02/13)
House Bill 1020 is the State Water Commission budget, which allocates more than half a billion dollars
from the Resources Trust Fund. This historic level of funding supports permanent flood control in
communities across the state, as well as infrastructure to bring fresh water to households and to industry
in growing Western communities. Additionally, leading into the 2011 legislative session, Dalrymple
initiated the most ambitious infrastructure improvement program in state history which was continued
through the 2013 session. In addition to flood control, this set of reforms includes highway
improvements, county and township road upgrades, water supply systems, and many other infrastructure
enhancements throughout the state at the economical price of just $2.3 billion.

Ohio, Governor John Kasich
Toledo Blade: Governor Kasich signs two-year transportation, safety budget (04/01/13)
On April 1, 2013 Governor Kasich signed HB 51, a two-year transportation/public safety budget bill that
takes effect on July 1. The bill increases the speed limit and authorizes the quadrupling of Ohio Turnpike
debt, guaranteed by future toll collections, in order to finance a backlog of highway and bridge projects in
Ohio. The Ohio turnpike has traditionally been well-run and this capitalization will continue with
Kasichs goal of improving Ohios infrastructure. This effort should also help greatly to increase the
safety of Ohioans, even while increasing their access to good roads.

Press: State plans to spend $120 million to repair, replace 200 bridges

Pennsylvania, Governor Tom Corbett
Press Release: Governor Corbett Unveils JobGateway
SM
, State-of-the-Art Job-Matching Website (7/9/13)
In July 2013, Gov. Corbett announced a user-friendly, premier job-matching system was created to
seamlessly and intelligently match job-seekers with employment opportunities and present employers
with a system where they can find candidates who fit their needs. Selected highlights include: 1) a robust
job-feed with approximately 200,000 job openings 2) approximately 500,000 individuals have registered
in the system; 3) an employer portal making it easier for employers to post a job, connect and interact
with candidates using a first of its kind survey tool, and filter/sort referrals based on candidate profile; and
4) PA Career Coach, a first-of-its kind, statewide, free online tool where individuals can obtain up-to-date
employment data for any given occupation including current and projected job openings, estimated
earnings and required skills and education.

Press Release: Governor Corbett creates new initiative Innovate in PA (7/9/13)
Governor Corbetts budget creates a new program called Innovate PA, which will accelerate high-wage,
sustainable job creation in emerging high-growth companies throughout Pennsylvania. The program
provides tax credits for insurance companies whose compensation for those credits will net at least $75
million to address the seed capital needs of startup companies and small businesses that are growing and
expanding in Pennsylvania. This additional funding will be directed to the successful Ben Franklin
Partnership, Venture Investment program and three Life Science Greenhouses. The new initiative is
projected to create 1,850 technology jobs, nearly 3,500 indirect jobs and a more than double the return-
on-investment back to the state.

South Carolina, Governor Nikki Haley
Legislation: H. 3360 (06/24/13)
Governor Haley signed into law a $1 billion infrastructure bill to improve South Carolinas roads and
bridges without raising taxes the largest investment in roads and bridges in 25 years.

Tennessee, Governor Bill Haslam
Press Release: Governor and Commissioner Release Transportation Improvement Plan for 2013-2016
(4/16/13)
Tennessee Gov. Bill Haslam and Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) Commissioner John
Schroer released the three-year transportation program, featuring approximately $1.5 billion in
infrastructure investments for 80 individual project phases in 47 counties, as well as 15 statewide
programs.

Virginia, Governor Bob McDonnell
Press Release: Governor McDonnell Signs Historic Bi-Partisan Transportation Funding Bill (5/13/13)
In May 2013, Governor Bob McDonnell signed Virginia's Road to the Future (HB 2313), the state's first
comprehensive transportation funding plan approved in 27 years. This historic bi-partisan legislation will
provide more than $3.4 billion in additional statewide transportation funding, more than $1.5 billion in
additional funding for Northern Virginia, and more than $1 billion in additional funding for Hampton
Roads, over the next five years alone.

Over the first five years, HB 2313 will:
Generate more than $1.8 billion in additional funding for maintenance, thereby
eliminating maintenance crossover transfers
Provide $660 million in dedicated new construction funding, which, when combined with
the elimination of maintenance crossover, will grow construction spending by more than
$2.4 billion
Increase funding for Virginia's transit providers by $509 million
Provide more than $256 million in funding for intercity passenger rail, the first dedicated
state funding for this vital service
Generate additional revenue for Virginia's airports and seaports
Generate annually between $272 million to $335 million in Northern Virginia and $172
million to $226 million in Hampton Roads for regional transportation priorities

Following General Assembly approval of the governor's recommended amendments, HB 2313:
Eliminates the 17.5 cents per gallon excise tax on gasoline and diesel fuel
Replaces the motor fuels tax with a 3.5 percent sales tax on the wholesale price of
gasoline and a 6 percent sales tax on the wholesale price of diesel fuel
Increases the state and local sales and use tax from 5 percent to 5.3 percent
Partially eliminates the 2 percent motor vehicle titling tax exemption by increasing the
rate from 3 percent to 4.15 percent
Creates a $64 Alternative Fuel Vehicle fee to ensure that all drivers are contributing to
Virginia's roadways
Levies an additional 0.7 percent local sales tax, a $0.15/$100 Grantor's Tax, and a 2
percent Transient Occupancy Tax in Planning District 8
Levies an additional 0.7 percent local sales tax and a 2.1 percent fuel sales tax in
Planning District 23


2012

Alabama, Governor Robert Bentley
Press Release: Governor Bentley Announces More than 100 Road and Bridge Projects as Part of ATRIP
Initiative (5/31/12)
Gov. Robert Bentley announced 105 road and bridge improvement projects that will move forward as part
of the first round of funding for ATRIP the Alabama Transportation Rehabilitation and Improvement
Program. ATRIP is the largest road and bridge improvement program in Alabamas history. Cities and
counties submitted project proposals, and the proposed improvements are designed to enhance safety and
quality of life for people in communities across the state. Further, the transportation projects will also
serve as an economic development tool. Updated roads and bridges will help the state recruit additional
jobs from companies that depend on a modern, solid infrastructure to transport goods.

Florida, Governor Rick Scott
Press Release: Governor Scott Signs Legislation to Prioritize Port and Transportation Projects Vital to
International Trade (06/14/12)
Governor Rick Scott signed two bills that facilitate economic development opportunities by prioritizing
Floridas investment in vital transportation projects, including improvements to Floridas 14 deep-water
sea ports. Senate Bill 1998 and House Bill 599 will position the Florida Department of Transportation to
build an interconnected, efficient transportation system, as guided by its long-range vision plan. The
legislation reduces bureaucracy and streamlines decision making to allow faster project delivery for
infrastructure improvements that employ creative financing alternatives, offer transportation choices, and
develop future transportation corridors. Specific benefits to Floridas ports include funding initiatives that
allow the private sector to invest in projects and grow jobs. The funds available for the Florida Seaport
Transportation and Economic Development Program are increased to $15 million from $8 million.

Indiana, Governor Mitch Daniels
Indiana Department of Transportation: Ohio River Bridges Project Underway (08/30/12)
In March 2012, Indiana Governor Mitch Daniels partnered with Kentucky Governor Steve Beshear on a
historic agreement to pay for two new bridges across the Ohio River. The project broke ground on August
30, 2012 and is expected to be completed within six years at a cost $1.5 billion less than originally
projected. Under the bi-state agreement, Indiana will oversee construction of the East End Bridge between
Utica and Prospect, KY. This bridge will link the Lee Hamilton Expressway in Indiana and the Gene
Snyder Freeway in Kentucky, completing a loop around the east end of the greater metropolitan area. The
state plans to use a private sector partner for financing, construction and long-term maintenance of the
bridge. Update- BizJournals: Construction set to begin next week on East End bridge (05/29/13)

Indiana Department of Transportation: Major Moves (2012)
In 2006, the Major Moves program began the leasing of the Indiana Toll Road and the state's 10 year
transportation infrastructure plan. The concession proceeds ($3.8 billion) from the lease are utilized to
fund Indiana's 10 year road and bridge plan. The purpose of Major Moves was to improve and expand
Indiana's highways and bridges. Upon the completion of the 10-year plan in 2015, Indiana plans to have
413 new highway miles and 588 bridges rehabilitated or replaced. By the end of 2012, 65 roadway
projects were complete or under construction, 420 new bridges were rehabilitated or replaced, and 375
new centerline miles were completed, among other things.
Due to the success of Major Moves, legislation, SB 473, was passed during the 2011 legislative session to
expand the opportunities to utilize public private partnerships in the area of transportation infrastructure.

Iowa, Governor Terry Branstad
Iowa Department of Transportation: Road Use Tax Fund Efficiency Report (01/15/12)
In January 2012, Gov. Terry E. Branstad announced that the Iowa Department of Transportation (DOT)
had identified $50 million in Road Use Tax Fund (RUTF) efficiencies. Iowa DOT Director Paul
Trombino, III, presented Gov. Branstad with a report detailing 13 programmatic and partnership
efficiencies totaling $50 million in either one-time or annual savings.

Innovation and Performance in Disaster Recovery: I-680 reconstruction project in running for $10,000
award (09/14/12)The Iowa Department of Transportation (DOT) received recognition from transportation
and engineering organizations (American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials,
American Automobile Association and U.S. Chamber of Commerce - See more at:
http://www.news.iowadot.gov/newsandinfo/2012/09/vote-now-to-make-iowa-transportation-project-tops-
in-the-nation.html#sthash.UUSIpX7t.dpufAmerican Council of Engineering Companies and for the
prompt reconstruction of Interstate 680 near Crescent, Iowa after Missouri River flooding ravaged the
roadway in 2011, The Iowa D.O.T. worked collaborated with multiple contractors to work around the
clock to completely rebuild 3.1 miles of I-680, including six interchange ramps, in record time.

New Mexico, Governor Susana Martinez
Press Release: Governor Susana Martinez Unveils New Electronic Plan Review System to Help Speed
Up Permits and Approvals for Construction in New Mexico (08/24/12)
On July 24, 2012, Governor Susana Martinez unveiled a state-of-the-art electronic plan review system
that will expedite the approval of construction, design, and architectural plans by the states Construction
Industries Division. The new plan review system allows contractors, designers and architects to submit
their plans electronically at any time and from anywhere in the state, country, or world. It also allows plan
reviewers for the Construction Industries Division to electronically mark up, approve or reject those plans
and send them back.

2011

Iowa, Governor Terry Branstad
Iowa Department of Transportation: Governors Transportation 2020 Citizen Advisory Commission
Report and Recommendations (2011)
Governor Terry Branstad created the Transportation 2020 Citizen Advisory Commission. This
commission assisted the Iowa Department of Transportation in assessing the condition of Iowas roadway
system while evaluating the current and future funding available to best address system needs. After the
commission submitted their report, Governor Branstad indicated that the state should first pursue
increased efficiencies and potentially eliminate a funding diversion before considering an increase in the
state gas tax or other fee increases, especially during a time of continued economic recovery.
Press: Branstad: Find efficiencies before increasing gas tax

North Dakota, Governor Jack Dalrymple
Press Release: Dalrymple Signs Historic Investment Package for Statewide Transportation Infrastructure
(04/18/11)
Governor Jack Dalrymple signed House Bill 1012, the state Department of Transportation 2011-13
budget, which included unprecedented investments to improve roadways throughout North Dakota. The
ND Department of Transportations budget of about $1.73 billion includes funding for major roadway
reconstruction projects and repairs to state, county, city and township roads throughout the state. In North
Dakotas 17 oil and gas counties, funds will be distributed based on the DOTs observed road conditions
and on road conditions identified in a comprehensive study completed in December by the Upper Great
Plains Transportation Institute. Funding set aside for road work in oil country includes an emergency
clause so that projects can begin immediately. Additionally, the infrastructure package includes funding
dedicated for road improvement projects in the Devils Lake area and for state, county, city and township
roads across the state.

Virginia, Governor Bob McDonnell
Press Release: Virginia Officially Opens the Office of Transportation Public-Private Partnerships
(OTP3) (06/06/11)
The Commonwealth of Virginia officially opened the Office of Transportation Public-Private
Partnerships (OTP3 office). The office will be responsible for developing and implementing a statewide
program for transportation project delivery via the Virginia Public-Private Transportation Act (PPTA) of
1995. The OTP3 will work in coordination with the secretary of transportation, all six Virginia
transportation agencies, and focus on the development of public-private projects across all modes of
transportation. The OTP3 Office will serve as the primary point of contact for public-private projects
across all transportation modes to address Virginias transportation needs. To further create efficiencies
and better planning, the Office of Intermodal Planning and Investment (OIPI) will be co-located with the
OTP3.

Economic Development

2013
Indiana, Governor Mike Pence
Press Release: Bill signed into law benefiting veteran-owned small businesses (04/25/13)
Governor Pence signed SEA 564, expanding veteran-owned small business opportunities. This law aims
to increase the number of state contracts secured by veteran-owned small businesses, allowing such
businesses to receive a 15 percent price preference for those contact bids. The legislation also requires the
Indiana Economic Development Corporations to simplify contract conditions and assist veteran-owned
small businesses in the bidding process. This Executive Order establishes a goal of procuring three
percent of state contracts from veteran-owned businesses, similar to, but not competing with the goals for,
women-owned and minority-owned businesses. It recognizes the higher-than-average unemployment
among veterans and seeks to increase job opportunities and encourage entrepreneurship among veterans.
Press: Governor Pence Expands Veteran-Owned Business Opportunities, Announces Business
Registration Site

Courier Press: Pence, industries, universities announce Indiana Bioscience Research Institute (05/30/13)
Governor Mike Pence, along with industry and university executives, announced the creation of the first
industry-led collaborative life sciences research institute in the nation. The state of Indiana appropriated
$25million for the biennium for startups costs for the $360 million effort. This industry-driven institute
will draw top scientific minds to the state and create more jobs.

Iowa, Governor Terry Branstad
Legislation: Reinvestment Districts (Sales Tax Financing for Retail and Hotel Developments)
Iowas Reinvestment Act allows municipalities to designate reinvestment districts within their
boundaries for purposes of diverting state hotel and sales tax revenues from businesses within the district
to fund economic development projects within the district. Only tax revenues from new retail
establishments may be diverted. Projects must be vertical infrastructure projects that are either new
construction or substantial improvements to existing structures. Projects cannot include gaming
establishments or hotels connected to gaming establishments.

Press Release: Branstad, Reynolds to celebrate Manufacturing Week with proclamation, tour of Iowa
businesses (09/10/13)
Gov. Terry E. Branstad and Lt. Gov. Kim Reynolds today marked the start of National Manufacturing
Week at their weekly news conference, highlighting the contributions made by manufacturers and their
employees through a proclamation, and launching a tour of various facilities throughout Iowa. There are
over 3,500 companies engaged in manufacturing in Iowa, employing over 211,000 Iowans with an
average wage of more than $51,000. All told, the manufacturing sector contributes over $27.6 billion, or
18 percent, to Iowas Gross State Product. The lieutenant governor added the tour is a way to say thank
you to Iowas employers, while finding ways to encourage additional job growth through Iowas
manufacturing sector.

Press Release: Gov. Branstad, Lt. Gov. Reynolds, and Sen. Harkin to co-host forum on Empowering
Individuals with Disabilities Through Employment (09/26/13)
Gov. Terry Branstad and Lt. Gov. Kim Reynolds, in conjunction with Sen. Tom Harkin, today co-hosted
a forum on Empowering Individuals with Disabilities through Employment on October 17, 2013. The
goal forum provided an opportunity to bring together business leaders, individuals with disabilities and
various stakeholders to share best practices and highlight success stories. The event explored avenues to
enable all Iowans an opportunity to contribute to the workplace and community and improve businesses
bottom line.

Nevada, Governor Brian Sandoval
Press Release: Sandoval Statement on Signing Internet Gaming Legislation (02/21/13)
Governor Sandoval signed Assembly Bill 114, internet gaming legislation. This bill removes the
provision requiring federal legislation or Department of Justice approval before online gaming licenses
are made active, effectively establishing online gaming in Nevada. The bill also requires the Nevada
Gaming Commission to adopt regulations authorizing the Governor to enter into agreements with other
states to conduct interactive gaming. This legislation ensures that Nevada will continue to be the gold
standard for gaming regulation.

New Jersey, Governor Chris Christie
Press Release: Governor Christie Signs Bipartisan Bill To Boost New Jerseys Economy And Create
Private Sector Jobs (08/18/13)
Building on his strong record turning New Jerseys economy around, Governor Christie signed into law
the bipartisan Economic Opportunity Act of 2013, praised by Republican and Democrat leaders and New
Jersey businesses alike. The Democrat Assembly Majority Leader hailed the Economic Opportunity Act
the singular, most significant piece of legislation in the last decade, that will mean jobs, economic
development, and economic growth, and offer the greatest hope and opportunity to redevelopment in
communities that up until now have not experienced that. The Economic Opportunity Act streamlines
New Jerseys economic development incentive programs into two categories:
GrowNJ, which will become the states main job creation incentive program; and,
The Economic Redevelopment and Growth Program (ERG), now New Jerseys sole developer
incentive program.
Both programs have been extended until July 1, 2019. These programs are not just available to help large
employers create new jobs and generate economic growth, but are also designed to help small and mid-
size businesses grow, as these enterprises are often the engine for entrepreneurship, ingenuity, and
growth. The Democrat Speaker of the Assembly praised the Economic Opportunity Act as the best kind
of social program that will help family-owned businesses in this state, small and medium sized
businesses that want to come to New Jersey.
The new law also builds on Governor Christies commitment to reclaiming New Jerseys cities. It places
extra emphasis on spurring development and private sector job growth in Garden State Growth Zones,
identified in the legislation as the four lowest median family income cities in the state: Camden, Trenton,
Passaic City, and Paterson. Projects in these cities will have significantly lower eligibility thresholds and
higher incentive levels. They will also be eligible to give property tax abatements for new development,
allowing inner cities like Camden to spur development and compete with Philadelphia for private sector
jobs and residential growth.

Press Release: Lt. Governor Kim Guadagno Announces Creation of New Council on Innovation to
Improve Collaborative Opportunities with Industry and Academia (3/13/13)
In 2013, Governor Christie enhanced the Administrations already strong economic development efforts
by adding the Secretary of Higher Education to the States Partnership for Action.

Originally formed by the Christie Administration in 2010, the Partnership for Action serves as the hub for
economic development in the State by coordinating four interconnected and highly focused organizational
elements:
Choose New Jersey, a privately-funded non-profit corporation that focuses on promoting New
Jersey to existing and new businesses, encouraging economic growth and opportunity, and
spearheading promotional activities to aggressively market New Jersey as a business destination;
Business Action Center, which reports directly to the Lt. Governor and brings a customer service
approach to coordination and navigation across State and local government agencies for
businesses looking to remain, expand, or locate in New Jersey.
Economic Development Authority, which acts as the States bank for business by providing
such services as organizing incentive programs and providing access to capital in partnership with
banks throughout New Jersey.
Office of the Secretary of Higher Education, which coordinates, plans, develops policies, and
advocates for the States higher education system.

The addition of the Office of the Secretary of Higher Education has strengthened the Administrations
efforts to align businesses and academic institutions to grow the States economy, attract more federal
funds, and bring innovative products and ideas to the market.

New Mexico, Governor Susana Martinez
Press Release: Governor Susana Martinez Signs Legislation to Level the Playing Field, Compete for Jobs
(4/4/13)
In April 2013, Governor Martinez signed the New Mexico Job Package, a sweeping tax reform bill that
will put New Mexico on a more competitive footing within the region and help to diversify and
strengthen the states economy. The New Mexico Jobs Package:
Reduces the tax rate on businesses from 7.6% to a much more competitive level of 5.9%.
Allows for a single sales factor option for manufacturers in New Mexico, making the state
competitive with the 25 other states that already have the single sales factor.
Includes a combined reporting provision to address tax fairness issues with large retailers, while
also providing an incentive for these retailers to bring their non-retail operations to New Mexico,
such as distribution centers, warehousing, back-office, and other functions.
Includes film incentive legislation that preserves the predictability of the budget cap while
providing additional incentives to longer-term TV productions that shoot in NM.
Fixes the high-wage tax credit and tightens the manufacturing GRT legislation to ensure they
apply to the intended activities.
Slowly phases out the hold harmless subsidy for cities and counties over 17+ years, including a
two-year planning period.

Press Release: Governor Susana Martinez and Economic Development Secretary Jon Barela Join
Governor of Chihuahua Csar Duarte to Announce Launching of Bi-National Community Master Plan
(8/9/13)
In August of 2013, Governor Martinez joined Chihuahua Governor Cesar Duarte to announce a first-of-
its-kind, master planned community that straddles the border and covers nearly 70,000 acres. This
community, ideally set with room to grow, is directly between major ports in Texas and California and
development will be coordinated to maximize growth that is being bolstered by Union Pacific on the US
side and Foxconn on the Mexico side. This announcement is on the heels of New Mexico being named
the number 1 state in the country for export growth in 2012.

Ohio, Governor John Kasich
Press Release: Kasich Calls for $1 Billion Workers Comp Rebate to Public and Private Employers
(05/02/13)
Governor Kasich proposed a $1 billion rebate for customers of the Ohio Bureau of Workers
Compensation. These refunds were made possible through the BWCs strong investment management.
Refunds were mailed to over 200,000 employers across the state beginning in July 2013.
Press: Businesses reaping big BWC rebates
Ohio BWC rebates are in the mail

Oklahoma, Governor Mary Fallin
Press Release: Gov. Fallin Signs into Law Historic Worker Comp Reform (5/6/13)
Governor Mary Fallin signed into law Senate Bill 1062, a bill that reforms the workers compensation
system in Oklahoma. The bill transitions Oklahomas court-based system to an administrative system,
thereby reducing the adversarial nature and time needed to process claims while allowing injured
employees to recover and get back to work faster. In addition, SB 1062 reduces legal costs, medical costs,
and excessive payouts by an estimated $260 million annually by reducing the waiting period for
employees to receive Temporary Total Disabilities, lowering the cap from 100 percent of the states
average weekly wage to 70 percent, deferring Permanent Partial Disabilities if employees return to work
at the same or equivalent job, requiring the use of the Official Disability Guidelines across the board for
all medical treatment, expanding the use of vocational rehabilitation, and more.

South Dakota, Governor Dennis Daugaard
Press Release: Governor Daugaard Signs Several Bills (04/20/13)
Governor Daugaard signed Senate Bill 235, creating a comprehensive new economic development
program. This legislation provides tax incentives for job creation and dedicated, ongoing funding for
local economic development staffing and revolving loan funds, housing subsidies, training, local
infrastructure construction, and additional funding for the state Revolving Economic Development and
Initiative fund.

Utah, Governor Gary Herbert
KSL: Utah halfway to governor's goal of 100,000 jobs (06/28/13)
Utah's unemployment rate has fallen to 4.6 percent from 8.3 percent since Governor Herbert took office
in 2009. Since January 2012, Utah has added 63,600 jobs, putting Utah over the halfway point to
Governor Herberts goal of 100,000 jobs in three years which was announced in early 2012.

Deseret News: Your Utah, Your Future Initiative (10/30/2013)
Utah is and will continue to be one of the nations fastest-growing states. Without forethought, that
growth could threaten elements of Utahs great quality of life. Governor Herbert has called on all Utahns
to participate in an unprecedented public processknown as Your Utah. Your Futureto address
growth challenges. This two-year effort will tackle energy, water, transportation, air quality, community
development, education, economic development, natural lands and agriculture, and other issues. The
result will be a clear strategy that identifies synergies among these issues to keep costs in check and
reflects residents values. The process respects local control, private property rights, and the market.

Press Release: Utah Business Regulatory Review Phase II: Local Government (October 16, 2013)
Having completed the business regulatory review within all state agencies, Governor Herbert challenged,
in his 2013 State of the State address, local governments to conduct a similar business regulatory review
and modify or remove any local regulations that inhibited economic development. Governor Herbert first
worked with the cities of South Jordan, Ogden, Provo and Cedar City to pilot this effort, but many cities
and townships immediately participated as well.

State of Utah: UCAP - Utah Cluster Acceleration Partnership (July 2013)
The Utah Department of Workforce Services, the Governors Office of Economic Development (GOED),
and Utah System of Higher Education (USHE) have partnered to create the Utah Cluster Acceleration
Partnership(UCAP). This partnership was designed to help strengthen alignment between industry needs
and educational programs by convening industry groups. In July, 2013 the UCAP program was
redesigned to provide grants to public education institutions that need financial assistance to develop,
implement or enhance educational programs that meet industry needs. The primary function for UCAP
has always been and will continue to be to accelerate industry clusters in Utah and to strengthen the
alignment between industry and education as we move forward to the 66% by 2020 Goal. UCAP has been
a successful model for collaboration in cluster industries and has demonstrated success in developing new
educational programs that support industry growth.

Currently, 8 projects throughout the state have received funding and 6-8 more projects will likely receive.
All projects must secure a match to the funding received through the UCAP application process. Each
project must meet the four goals that drive the focus of the UCAP partnership: Increase Economic Cluster
Connectivity and Educational Alignment, Respond to Skill Gaps, Enhance the Role of the Regional
Institutions in Economic Development and Promote Regional Stewardship. Applicants will use certified
data and/or other compelling data sources to include a workforce skills gap analysis as well as the
potential for: project contribution to regional and/or state economic growth, sustainable wages, labor
market demand, student demand and evidence of program sustainability following grant funding.

Tennessee, Governor Bill Haslam
Press Release: Haslam Signs Workers Compensation Reform Bill (5/7/2013)
This legislation strengthens the states attractive business climate through the Tennessee Workers
Compensation Improvement Act by reforming workers compensation laws to simplify the process and to
make it more equitable for both the employer and employee. Additionally, the bill:
Moves from a court-based adjudication system to an administrative one;
Streamlines the workers claim process while providing faster services and better protection to
injured employees;
Authorizes the adoption of medical treatment guidelines; improves overall efficiency and flow of
medical information.

Texas, Governor Rick Perry
Press Release: Governor Perry Announces $3 Million Grant to Create Center for Cell and Organ
Biotechnology (9/13/13)
Gov. Rick Perry announced a $3 million investment through the Texas Emerging Technology Fund
(TETF) to create the Center for Cell and Organ Biotechnology in collaboration with the Texas Heart
Institute (THI) and Texas A&M University College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences.


2012

Arizona, Governor Jan Brewer
Arizona Commerce Authority: Arizona Commerce Authority and BioAccel Join Arizonas First-of-Its-
Kind Statewide Business Accelerator: AZ Furnace (08/27/12)
Governor Jan Brewer established the Arizona Commerce Authority (ACA) in 2010 by executive order.
The move started the transition of the old Arizona Department of Commerce into the new, quasi-public
Arizona Commerce Authority. The ACA committed $10 million to advance Arizonas economy through
its approach to economic development.

On August 27, 2012, the ACA and BioAccel announced that they would begin collaborating with AZ
Furnace, Arizona's first-of-its-kind statewide business accelerator program that encourages entrepreneurs
from across the country to find and commercialize innovations developed within the state's universities
and research institutions. AZ Furnace is designed to propel Arizona to a leadership position in the country
by raising the visibility of Arizonas research institutions and technology transfer offices and driving
startup activity that is directly based on intellectual property and new technology disclosures.

Press Release: Governor Jan Brewer signs legislation to Aid Small Businesses, Spur Investment and
Create Jobs (05/11/12)
Governor Jan Brewer signed legislation designed to accelerate Arizonas economic turnaround. HB 2815
is designed to encourage investment in small businesses, aid start-up companies, incentivize the location
of corporate headquarters in Arizona and spur job growth. This important legislation contains a series of
phased-in tax breaks associated with increased capital gains deductions, investments in personal property,
the creation of new jobs and other areas. With these changes, Arizona has removed lingering obstacles to
job growth and laid a stable foundation for Arizonas future economic health.

Iowa, Governor Terry Branstad
Iowa Economic Development: High Quality Jobs Program
The High Quality Jobs program provides qualifying businesses tax credits to off-set the cost incurred to
locate, expand, or modernize an Iowa facility. To qualify, a business must be a non-retail or non-service
business and meet wage threshold requirements.
Press: High-quality jobs program key to economic development

Bill: House File 2465 (05/25/12)
In 2012, Governor Branstad signed legislation authorizing Employee Stock Option Plans (ESOPs). In
order to encourage the formation of ESOPs in Iowa, the state offers a 50% capital gains deduction from
state income taxes for the sale of stock to a qualified Iowa ESOP. Unlike federal tax law, Iowa does not
require that the seller reinvest the proceeds of the sale in qualified property and does not limit the
incentive to sales of stock in C corporations, making the incentive particularly attractive to the many
closely held S corporations around the state.

Michigan, Governor Rick Snyder
Press Release: New International Trade Crossing agreement to bring jobs, economic security, easier
travel (06/15/12)
Governor Rick Snyder announced an agreement with Canada that lays the groundwork for the New
International Trade Crossing (NITC), a move that positions Michigan to thrive in the global economy
while protecting the state from shouldering the projects costs.

The NITC will provide a modern, strategically located bridge between Detroit and Windsor that is vital to
enhancing the $70 billion-a-year trade relationship between Michigan and Canada. It will generate
thousands of short- and long-term jobs on both sides of the border, open new trade markets, strengthen
economic security and ease traffic congestion.

Also under the agreement:
Michigan is not obligated to pay any of the NITCs costs and no state appropriation is required.
Canadas expenditure of $550 million will be eligible as U.S. federal matching funds for use on
highway projects across Michigan.
Actual design, construction, operation and maintenance of the NITC will be done by a private
entity through a 40-50 year public-private partnership agreement between the Crossing Authority
and the private entity as concessionaire.
The Canadian government will make annual availability payments to the concessionaire to fund
the design and construction of the NITC as well as for the ongoing operation and maintenance
expenses during the terms of the public-private partnership agreement.
No tolls will be charged in Michigan for use of the bridge. Canada will charge tolls, which will be
used to reimburse the Canadian government for the funds it advances related to the NITC and for
its annual availability payments to the concessionaire.
The Canadian government will pay all costs of the required land acquisition in Canada and
Michigan. It also will pay to construct an interchange to connect the NITC to I-75.
The public-private partnership agreement and the request for proposals must contain provisions
for community benefit plans and for the involvement of the impacted communities in Michigan
and Canada.

Mississippi, Governor Phil Bryant
Press Release: Small Business: A Cornerstone of Mississippis Economy (02/20/12)
Gov. Phil Bryant signed into law the Small Business Regulatory Flexibility Act (Senate Bill 2398) which
aims to remove unnecessary barriers to business growth by giving small businesses a voice in state
rulemaking processes. SB 2398 creates a framework that allows for the review of current regulations and
any proposed rules and or regulations that would adversely impact small businesses.

Press Release: Gov. Phil Bryant Signs Legislation to Enhance Mississippis Business Climate (05/14/12)
House Bill 1537, the Health Care Industry Zone Act, authorizes the establishment of health care zones
throughout the state where significant acute-care facilities exist. Health care businesses like laboratory
testing facilities, medical supply distributors and biotechnology research facilities that either make an
investment of at least $10 million or create a minimum of 25 full time, permanent jobs within the health
care zone are eligible for income tax, sales tax, and property tax incentives.

Nevada, Governor Brian Sandoval
Vegas Inc.: Major changes in economic development efforts under way in Nevada (05/2/12)
Governor Sandovals Office of Economic Development created The Las Vegas Regional Economic
Development Council (the Council). The Council will provide a more expansive approach to recruiting
businesses to Nevada than the previous organization Nevada Development Authority. Eleven separate
organizations put forth proposals to be included in the Council as one of the regional development
authorities which will be eligible for state funding to assist their efforts. The organization plans to have
committees devoted to marketing, branding and recruitment; business retention and expansion; higher
education and work force development; international business; redevelopment; and government affairs.

Pennsylvania, Governor Tom Corbett
Press Release: Governor Corbett Signs Small Business Regulatory Reform Act (7/10/12)
Governor Tom Corbett signed legislation that will protect small businesses from unnecessary red tape and
costly mandates. Sponsored by Rep. Tina Pickett (R-Bradford), House Bill 1349, The Small Business
Regulatory Reform Act, amends the Regulatory Review Act to require state agencies to consider the
impact of any proposed regulations on small businesses.

The Small Business Regulatory Reform Act requires state agencies to identify the types of small
businesses that would be impacted as well as the potential administrative costs of proposed regulations. If
a proposed regulation is determined to have an adverse impact on small businesses, the Independent
Regulatory Review Commission must provide a less intrusive or costly alternative that still achieves the
intended statutory purpose.

Tennessee, Governor Bill Haslam
Press Release: Haslam Signs Legislation to Expand Fast-track Program (05/17/12)
Tennessee Gov. Bill Haslam signed legislation to expand the states FastTrack program to specifically
support economic development in rural communities and for exceptional projects. The legislation, HB
2344/SB 2206, created the FastTrack Economic Development Fund, an expansion of the Department of
Economic and Community Developments (ECD) current infrastructure and job training program. The
legislation resulted from a 12-month review of ECDs incentive programs with input from companies, site
selection consultants and economic development stakeholders. By making reimbursable grants to local
industrial development boards, the fund provides additional grant support for companies expanding or
locating in Tennessee, and the legislation stipulates that the fund will only be used in exceptional cases
where the impact of the company on a given community is significant.

Utah, Governor Gary Herbert
Press Release: Governor Launches Economic Development Coordinating Council (08/20/11)
Utah Governor Gary R. Herbert created the Governor's Economic Development Coordinating Council as
part of the Governor's long-term economic development initiative to ensure that the collective efforts of
government and the business community are focused on jobs. After detailing specific guiding principles,
like fiscal prudence, sensible regulation and empowering the private sector, Governor Herbert announced
the council's singular focus: Accelerate support for private sector efforts to create 100,000 jobs in 1,000
days.

Update: Utah halfway to governors goal of 100,000 jobs (06/28/13)

Virginia, Governor Bob McDonnell
Press Release: Governor McDonnell Announces Accelerated Sales Tax Program Now Eliminated for
96% of Businesses (06/14/12)
On May 25, 2012, Governor Bob McDonnell signed the Caboose Budget Bill, delivering on his
promise to speed up the phasing out of the Accelerated Sales Tax program. More than 8,800 businesses
with at least $1 million in taxable sales were previously required to make additional sales and use tax
payment in June. These businesses had to pay their regular payment of sales tax collected in May, due on
June 20, as well as the new accelerated payment, which is equal to 90 percent of their taxable sales for the
previous June. In 2011, Governor McDonnell signed legislation increasing the sales threshold from $1
million to $5.4 million, relieving more than 7,000 retail dealers of the additional payment requirement.
Legislators agreed in 2010 to end the Accelerated Sales Tax program by June 2021 and to begin the roll-
back in fiscal year 2013. The Caboose Budget Bill put the program's phase-out on a faster pace by raising
the sales threshold to $26 million, thus reducing the number of businesses required to make the extra
payment in June 2012 to 386. That's a reduction of nearly 96 percent since 2010.

Press Release: Governor McDonnell Announces Launch of Mobile Business App (08/14/12)
Governor Bob McDonnell announced the launch of a free mobile application for eVA, Virginia's award-
winning electronic procurement system. The eVA Mobile 4 Business app allows anyone with an Internet-
enabled mobile device (iPhone, iPad, Android, Blackberry, etc.) to have real-time access to Virginia
government business opportunities-anywhere, anytime. Virginia is the first state to launch a mobile app
that brings bid opportunities and solicitations literally to the fingertips of its suppliers and the general
public, giving them immediate access to the thousands of business opportunities published every year and
providing increased visibility into how state government spends the taxpayers' dollars.

Wyoming Governor Matt Mead
Press Release: Governor Mead to sign Data Center Initiative Bill (02/17/11)
Less than 50 days after taking office, Governor Matt Mead signed HB 0117, the Data Center Incentive
bill. This bill created incentives for the construction of data centers in Wyoming, providing opportunity
for economic diversification. Data centers are a great match for Wyoming, which has abundant and
affordable energy, a naturally cool climate to reduce cooling costs and the necessary fiber optics.


2011

Arizona, Governor Jan Brewer
Press Release: Governor Jan Brewer Signs Landmark Economic Legislation (02/17/11)
Governor Jan Brewer signed into law significant economic legislation. The Arizona Competitiveness
Package focuses on both urban and rural job creation, and Arizona business growth and development. The
legislation eliminated the Arizona Commerce Department, replacing it with the Arizona Commerce
Authority whose focus is to retain and recruit quality jobs in Arizona. This legislation also created a
Quality Jobs Program, with corporate tax credits of up to $9,000 for each qualifying new job and re-
authorized the Arizona Job Training Program, which provides job-specific, reimbursable grants to train
employees for new careers.

Indiana, Governor Mitch Daniels
IEDC: Indiana Economic Development Corporation
In 2005 Governor Daniels dismantled the Department of Commerce and replaced it with the Indiana
Economic Development Corporation (IEDC), with the Secretary of Commerce reporting directly to the
Governor. A guiding principle for IEDC is to act at the speed of business, not government. Its
coordination with other state agencies that influence economic development and effective strategies has
created one of the best sand boxes in the nation for investment. Indiana was ranked 1
st
in the Midwest
in the Tax Foundations 2012 Business Tax Climate Index.

Iowa, Governor Terry Branstad
Press Release: Gov. Branstad names 11 members to newly formed Economic Development Authority
board (09/16/11)
Governor Branstad proposed and the Legislature approved House File 590, which created the Iowa
Economic Development Authority (IEDA). The Iowa Economic Development Authority will use the best
aspects of the public and private sectors to create a dynamic, results-driven partnership with programs and
incentives that will meet the needs for business growth. This model marks a new direction in economic
development for the state and consists of two arms the Iowa Economic Development Authority and the
Iowa Innovation Corporation.

Press Release: Gov. Branstad signs Executive Order requiring jobs impact statement on government rules
and regulations (03/07/11)
Governor Branstad signed Executive Order 71, which requires a Jobs Impact Statement so that rules that
could hurt jobs can be identified before they impact job retention and development. State government is
directed to regulate as effectively and efficiently as possible without imposing unnecessary burdens that
reduce jobs and hurt job growth. This executive order is designed to help small businesses promote job
creation and retention.

Kansas, Governor Sam Brownback
Kansas Department of Commerce: Gov. Brownback signs Rural Opportunity Zones program into law
(04/11/12)
Governor Brownback signed SB 198, creating the Rural Opportunity Zones program. This program offers
a state income tax rebate for up to five years to individuals who move to one of the 73 counties designated
as a Rural Opportunity Zone (ROZ) from outside the state. Individuals must have lived outside Kansas for
at least five years. The program also offers up to $3,000 per year ($15,000 maximum benefit) in student
loan forgiveness for individuals who graduate from an accredited post-secondary institution and move to
a ROZ county.
More information: Questions and Answers Regarding Rural Opportunity Zones
Rural Opportunity Zone Credit

Louisiana, Governor Bobby Jindal
Press Release: Governor Jindals FY 13 Budget (02/09/12)
Governor Bobby Jindal enacted the largest tax cut in Louisiana history- saving more than $1.1 billion
over five years. Tax cuts include:
Accelerating the elimination of the state sales tax on manufacturing machinery and equipment,
saving business $4 million.
Accelerating the phase-out of the corporate franchise tax on business debt, saving business $26
million.
Eliminating the state sales tax on natural gas and business utilities, freeing up $68 million
annually.
Eliminating the state capital gains tax on the sale of ownership interests in private businesses.
Eliminating the minimum corporate franchise tax and also excluding the first $150,000 of taxable
capital.
Phasing in an exclusion from state sales tax for tangible personal property consumed in the
manufacturing process.
Increasing the film production tax credit from 25 percent to 30 percent.
Extending the sound recording production and infrastructure tax credit.
Making the digital media tax credit permanent.
Extending the Technology Commercialization Credit and Jobs Program.
Improving and extending the Research and Development Tax Credit program.
Reenacting the Angel Investor Tax Credit program.

Michigan, Governor Rick Snyder
Office of the Governor: A Special Message from Governor Rick Snyder: Developing and Connecting
Michigans Talent (12/01/11)
Governor Snyder called for a better and stronger Michigan Economic Development Corporation
focused on economic gardening as opposed to hunting by focusing on building businesses already in
the state. Governor Snyder charged the MEDC with creating a new web-based talent marketplace, the
Pure Michigan Talent Connect, to help connect citizens and employers. The MEDC is a public-private
collaborative entity designed to promote economic development in the state. MEDC was created in 1999
under the direction of former governor John Engler tasked with directly marketing the state for both travel
and tourism as well as to the business community.
Press: MEDC CEO Michael Finney talks about the job of creating jobs in Michigan

Press Release: Pure Michigan Business Connect Swells (11/18/11)
Gov. Rick Snyder announced that the state's Pure Michigan Business Connect program has more than
doubled in less than six months with an additional $5 billion in loan access for Michigan-based
companies offered through Fifth Third Bank. The program is a public-private initiative that provides
Michigan businesses with new ways to buy and sell, raise capital and connect with each other through an
alliance of the Michigan Economic Development Corp., state agencies and major Michigan companies
and organizations.
Press: $8B Pure Michigan Business Connect Grows

Mississippi, Governor Haley Barbour
LAT: Mississippi Gov. Haley Barbour: Tort reform 'has been a major factor in economic growth and job
creation (01/28/11)
During his tenure as governor, Governor Haley Barbour enacted significant tort reform which brought
down the number of medical liability lawsuits against Mississippi doctors almost 90 percent just one year
after going into effect. Medical liability insurance costs have been lowered more than 60 percent since the
enactment of Barbours tort reform. Tort reform has been a successful job creation measure and is
credited for luring major economic development projects, such as Toyota, to Mississippi.

Nebraska, Governor Dave Heineman
Office of the Governor: Gov. Dave Heineman Enacts Remaining Talent and Innovation Initiative
Programs (10/03/11)
The Legislature gave unanimous support to four proposals that Governor Heinemann proposed as part of
Nebraskas Talent & Innovation Initiative. This package including the Nebraska Internship program, the
Business Innovation Act, the Site & Building Development Fund, and the Angel Investment Tax Credit
was developed based on recommendations made through a comprehensive review of Nebraskas
economic climate. These programs will provide funding to individuals and businesses to encourage
innovation and investment in Nebraska.

Nevada, Governor Brian Sandoval
Press Release: Governor Sandoval Signs Executive Orders and Proclamation (01/03/11)
Governor Sandoval issued an executive order freezing most state regulations and requiring a complete
regulatory review. This order focused on stabilizing Nevadas business climate and making it easier for
firms to expand and create jobs.

In his State of the State, Governor Sandoval said, We owe it to Nevadans to renew our economic
development efforts for the realities of today. Due to the concerted efforts of the Governors Office and
coordination with Legislative leadership, economic development remained a priority throughout the 2011
Legislative Session. Below are some of Nevadas economic development priorities.

Tax Abatements for New Manufacturing Business- The Office of Energy has established
regulations for granting partial abatement of certain property taxes for new manufacturing
businesses in Nevada which renovate an existing building to meet energy efficiency standards.
Nevadas Jobs and Economic Growth Plan- The plans goals are to better coordinate and focus
economic development efforts to directly stimulate the creation of more businesses, industries,
and research and development. The plan creates a Cabinet level Office of Economic
Development and reorganizes economic development programs in the state. The plan also creates
the Catalyst Fund within the Office of Economic Development to provide grants to businesses
and organizations. The budget includes an initial $10 million appropriation. The plan also
establishes the Knowledge Fund for development and commercialization of research and
technology at state institutions of higher education
Investing in Education- The state will invest $50 million in the State Permanent School Fund to
provide private equity funding to businesses engaged in certain industries located in or seeking to
locate in Nevada.

New Mexico, Governor Susana Martinez
Legislation: HB523 and SB179, Tax Exemption for Locomotive Fuel (04/05/11)
This small tax incentive brought Union Pacific and their Intermodal Facility to New Mexico, and along
with it, thousands of jobs. The legislation provides a deduction from the gross receipts tax (GRT) and
compensating tax for locomotive fuel and determines that eligibility for the deduction would be limited to
a railroad that made a $100 million or more investment in new construction or renovations at a railroad
locomotive refueling facility in which the fuel is loaded, used, or sold.

Legislation: HB24, Creating Overweight Cargo Zone (04/05/11)
Governor Martinez signed legislation that created a 6 mile overweight cargo zoneallowing for a more
streamlined trip across the border to the borderplex companies, a move that brought more jobs to New
Mexico. In fact, at least 3 companies directly cite the overweight cargo zone as a major factor in choosing
Santa Teresa to set up shop.

Ohio, Governor John Kasich
Press Release: Kasich Signs New Tax Incentive Legislation (04/07/11)
In 2011, Governor John Kasich signed HB 58, aimed at retaining jobs in Ohio.
Key provisions of HB 58 include: A tax credit for businesses that received an offer of financial incentives
from another state in 2010; and a requirement that businesses seeking this credit must agree to invest at
least $25 million and retain at least 1,000 employees in Ohio.

South Carolina, Governor Nikki Haley
Legislation: H. 4652 and S.438
Governor Haley passed two pieces of legislation making it more difficult for organized labor to coerce
employees into joining their organization and for organized labor to gain a foothold in South Carolina by
rigging public contracts to require the use of unionized labor. Governor Haleys outspoken leadership
kept South Carolina focused on jobs, not labor.

Legislation: House Bill 3286 and House Bill 3762
Governor Haley passed two pieces of legislation limiting who can collect unemployment benefits and
closing loopholes, which included (1) lowers the new employer tax class from 13 to 12; which lowers the
new employer's tax rate in 2011 from 5.428% to 2.866%, in line with surrounding states; (2) excluding
seasonal workers; and (3) reducing the number of weeks employees are eligible for benefits from 26
weeks to 20 weeks.

CRBJ: Haley signs tort reform law, creating punitive damages cap (07/27/11)
In the 2011 legislative session Governor Nikki Haley took on tort reform as a major legislative agenda
item. H.3375 helps reduce burdens on businesses and creates an environment for businesses to thrive. A
summary of the legislation:
Cap on Punitive damages: Generally, no award of punitive damages may exceed the greater of
three times the compensatory damages awarded to the plaintiff or $500,000 with exceptions for
certain intentional conduct. The cap increases to four times compensatory damages or $2 million
if unreasonable financial gain and unreasonably dangerous nature of the conduct is proven.
(Florida model)
Civil Actions by Solicitor: requires written approval by the Attorney General. Important to
control (but not prohibit) government's litigation activity against businesses.
Disclosure of Automobile Insurance: requires automobile insurers to provide the limits of
coverage upon request except for fleet policy limits, umbrella coverage, or excess coverage
Building Code Violations: A violation of a building code is not per se fraud, gross negligence, or
recklessness but is admissible as evidence of fraud, negligence, gross negligence, or recklessness.
Bond required for an Appeal: The amount of a bond or surety that a court may require to stay
execution of a judgment pending its appeal is limited to the lesser of the amount of the judgment,
$25 million for businesses with 50 or more employees and gross revenues exceeding $5 million
or $1 million for all other entities and for individuals.

Tennessee, Governor Bill Haslam
Press Release: Haslam Signs Tennessee Civil Justice Act to Improve Business Climate (06/16/11)
As one of Governor Haslams top legislative priorities his first year in office, the Tennessee Civil Justice
Act reform was designed to increase certainty for businesses in Tennessee and improve the overall
climate for attracting jobs to the state. The Act:
Clarifies and defines the venue where a business can be sued;
Places a $750,000 cap on non-economic damages, except in instances of intentional misconduct,
records destruction, or conduct under influence of drugs or alcohol;
Raises the cap to $1 million on non-economic damages for catastrophic losses resulting in
paraplegia, quadriplegia, amputation, substantial burns or the wrongful death of a parent leaving
minor children;
And places a cap on punitive damages of two times the compensatory damages or $500,000,
whichever is greater, except in instances of intentional misconduct, records destruction, or
conduct under influence of drugs or alcohol.

Press Release: Governor Haslam and Commissioner Hagerty Announce Jobs4TN Plan and Results of
First Departmental Top-to-Bottom Review (04/20/11)
The Jobs4TN plan, focusing on Governor Haslams economic development strategy, includes four main
goals:
Prioritizing the strategic recruitment of target industries;
Assisting existing Tennessee businesses in expansions and remaining competitive;
Supporting regional and rural economic development strategies;
As well as investing in innovation and reducing business regulation.
This plan is one component of Governor Haslams comprehensive jobs plan along with education reform,
tort reform, and workforce development.

Press Release: Governor Haslam Announces Innovation Strategy in Tennessee (05/05/11)
Governor Haslam announced a $50 million initiative designed to support innovation across the state. The
goal of the program, called INCITE for its focus on innovation, commercialization, investment,
technology and entrepreneurship, is to raise Tennessees profile in innovation-based economic
development and drive growth in the creation of knowledge-based jobs. INCITE is a component of
Governor Haslams Jobs4TN strategy and will be managed by the Tennessee Department of Economic
and Community Development (ECD).

Utah, Governor Gary Herbert
Press Release: Governor Launches Economic Development Coordinating Council (09/20/11)
To accelerate job creation across the state, Governor Herbert announced that the creation of the Economic
Development Coordinating Council. Passed by the Utah Legislature, SB312 outlines the goals and duties
of the council. In addition to specific guiding principles, like fiscal prudence, sensible regulation and
empowering the private sector, Governor Herbert announced the council's singular focus: Accelerate
support for private sector efforts to create 100,000 jobs in 1,000 days.

Press: Governor Gary Herbert pushes job-creation plan
Update: Utah halfway to governors goal of 100,000 jobs (06/28/13)

Trade and Industry Development: Utahs Post-Performance Incentive Program (July 19, 2011)
Financial incentives are available for business relocation and expansion for select companies that create
new, high-paying jobs to help improve the standard of living, increase the tax base, attract and retain top-
level management, and diversify the state economy. Incentives are offered as either tax credits or grants.
The incentive amount and duration is decided by the GOED board and executive director based on
statutory guidelines and evaluation criteria including the financial strength of the company, the number
and salary of jobs created, amount of new state tax revenue, long-term capital investment, competition
with other locations and whether the company is a headquarters or in a targeted cluster.
Incentives are based on the following three pillars of success and sustainability:
1. Post-performance Incentives are disbursed after the company has met contractual performance
benchmarks, such as job creation and payment of new state taxes.
2. Single Taxpayer Incentive amounts are based on new state taxes generated by the project.
3. Competition Incentives must make Utah competitive with other locations.

Virginia, Governor Bob McDonnell
Press Release: McDonnells 2011Agenda Receives Broad Support (02/27/11)
In 2011, 92% of Governor Bob McDonnells "Opportunity at Work" agenda was passed by the Virginia
General Assembly. The General Assembly, in bipartisan votes on each measure, passed McDonnell's
legislation to
Create the framework to put nearly $4 billion into transportation over just the next three years; the
largest investment in transportation in Virginia in a generation
Make higher education more accessible and affordable in the Commonwealth through passage of
the Governor's "Preparing for the Top Jobs of the 21st Century: The Virginia Higher Education
Opportunity Act of 2011" The legislation is part of the Governor's overall effort to award
100,000 more degrees over the next 15 years, and bring more innovation and accountability, and
STEM concentration, to Virginia's colleges and universities
Institute a series of government reform measures to make Virginia state government smaller,
smarter and more efficient
Establish, through his "Opportunity At Work" initiative, new economic development tools to help
new and existing businesses create new jobs in the Commonwealth

Wisconsin, Governor Scott Walker
Press Release: Governor Walker Signs the Department of Commerce Reorganization (02/09/11)
Governor Walker signed SSSB6 which created the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation
(WEDC), a public-private corporation that replaced the state Department of Commerce (Commerce).
WEDC now leads Wisconsin's economic development efforts. Governor Scott Walker chairs the WEDC
Board of Directors composed of state legislators, departmental secretaries, and private sector leaders. The
thirteen-member Board of Directors provides WEDC with strategic leadership and operational oversight
representing statewide public and private economic development interests.
Press: Wisconsin releases economic recovery guide