Montana’s economic report card: All C’s

When it comes to the state’s economy, Montana earns only average grades, according to the latest report card.

The state got C’s in "performance," "business vitality" and "development capacity" on the annual Development Report Card for the States released Tuesday by the Corporation for Enterprise Development. The grades mirror the state’s marks in 2003.

The state has done well in terms of employment growth and having a low unemployment rate, but continues to struggle with pay levels, insurance coverage for workers and the number of working poor, the nonprofit group said.

"Quality of life indicators suggest that Big Sky Country is hospitable," the CFED concluded. "But, creating quality jobs and safeguarding the environment are two areas where the state comes up short."

By JAMES E. LARCOMBE Tribune Business Editor

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