“After several years of dire revenue news from state capitals, the fiscal situation seems to be improving in a number of states. As of October 2010, West Virginia had posted six straight months of revenue increases.25 Kentucky’s budget director says the state could end the current fiscal year with $58 million more than expected if current trends hold.26 Minnesota collected $55 million more than predicted between July and September 2010, making a sizeable dent in the state’s budget deficit.”

From “State’s Revenue Estimating, Cracks in the Crystal Ball” the Pew Center on the State

Editorial Commentary:

West Virginia’s budget situation continues to be positive, specifically compared to most other states. You hear it everywhere and it is a “sales point” for the state right now;  “balanced budget, not in the red, provides continuity of government.”  An excellent and descriptive way to describe the situation right now…  but the question that remains unanswered, is will state decision makers invest during this time of relative prosperity?  Will WV invest in Innovation?  In specific educational and skill training programs that will advance our workforce with the skill sets needed?  Only time will tell… until then, encourage your legislators to pass important investment legislation, such as the Innovation Act of 2011 and the Brains for Business Bill.

Matt Ballard, Charleston Chamber President/CEO