3/19/2007 03:39:15 PM

Utah has been named #5 on the list of "America’s Top Ten Pro-Business States" in the "Keeping Jobs In America: Pollina Corporate Top 10 Pro-Business States 2007", released this week before 400 economic development executives attending the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) Federal Forum in Arlington, Va.

The Pollina Corporate Top 10 Pro-Business States study examines 29 factors relative to states’ efforts to be pro-business, including taxes, human resources, right-to-work legislation, energy costs, infrastructure spending, workers compensation legislation and jobs lost or gained. This evaluation includes 14 state government-controlled factors based on incentive programs and state economic development departments.

"Without question, Utah’s selling points are its strong pro-business tax environment," Ronald R. Pollina told the IEDC audience. "As a right-to-work state, Utah ranks very strong in our report in the following categories: employment index grades, workers compensation rates, jobs gained or lost, corporate tax ranking, infrastructure and quality of life."

"From a policy standpoint, clearly Utah is making the statement that it has set up a very pro-business operating environment and economic development efforts." Poliina added. "Utah is the strongest state for distribution and other industries that rely on being a day’s drive from the coast."

"This report sounds a high note for the state of Utah. To be recognized as #5 in the ‘Pollina Corporate Top 10 Pro-Business States for 2007’ acknowledges the momentum Utah has gained in job creation and retention efforts." said Gov. Jon M. Huntsman, Jr. "The 57,000 plus jobs Utah businesses have created this year alone underscores successes we have seen in the targeted industry initiatives undertaken by the State as we continue to grow and recruit companies who are bringing long-term high paying jobs to Utah."

Keeping Jobs In America: Pollina Corporate Top 10 Pro-Business States is published annually by Chicago-headquartered Pollina Corporate Real Estate, a full service brokerage and consulting firm, representing corporations in real estate matters on a national and international basis.

A summary of the Pollina Report may be found at www.pollina.com, and the full report may be ordered by phone, 1+847-685-9000.