Idaho’s business tax climate is worse than those of all its surrounding states, according to a new study from the Tax Foundation.   Idaho ranked above the national average at 18^th, the same position it held last year. The 2011 State Business Tax Climate Index doesn’t measure the overall tax burden on companies in the state, but rather looks at how simple, transparent, and neutral to different types of businesses each state’s code is. … Idaho’s six neighbors ranged from Wyoming at third place in the national index to Oregon at 14^th place.  However, the study favors states that don’t have an income tax, such as Washington, or a sales tax, such as Oregon/Brad Iverson-Long. More here.

Question: Are you surprised that Idaho’s business climate ranks below neighboring states in the Northwest?

A new public radio survey shows a majority of Northwest residents believes illegal immigrants take away jobs from native-born Americans. Is that perception based on fact? Some experts say, right or wrong, people’s beliefs are sometimes driven by their fears about their own economic well-being. … Pollster Adam Davis says most of the people included in the recent public radio survey think highly of immigrants, even those who are here illegally/Doug Nadvornek, OPB News. More here.

Question: Have you lost a job to an illegal immigrant, hired one, or been the victim of a crime committed by one?