A study by two free-market economists says Vermont has the lowest economic outlook index in the country.
But the state ranked 17th for its past economic performance.
Half of the criteria used to determine the state economic competitiveness outlook index was related to tax rates and tax burdens.
The index was published by the American Legislative Exchange Council, which says its mission is to advance “Jeffersonian principles of free markets, limited government, federalism and individual liberty.”
Among the findings, Vermont ranked No. 48 in the “top marginal personal income tax rate” category.
The state’s ranking also was diminished by the state’s higher than average minimum wage of $7.53 per hour.