ALEC Releases 4th Edition of “States That Work” Labor Policy Rankings
"New report ranks all 50 states based on pro-worker, pro-growth policies"
Arlington, VA—The American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC) released the 4th edition of its States That Work: A Labor Policy Roadmap Across America report, which ranks all 50 states on policies centered around worker freedom and economic mobility. The report highlights where workers enjoy the most economic freedom and where big government mandates hold them back.
“States That Work is a roadmap for states that want to increase worker freedom and grow their economies,” said ALEC CEO Lisa B. Nelson. “States like Arizona have continued to embrace these pro-worker policies, while states like New York continue to drive workers away. It’s no surprise that many of the top states in States That Work also lead the pack in our Rich States, Poor States report.”
The report grades states based on 10 key labor policies vetted and recommended by ALEC’s Commerce, Insurance, and Economic Development Task Force and featured in ALEC’s Essential Policy Solutions, including the Right to Work Act and Occupational Licensing Review Act.
| TOP 5 | RANKING | BOTTOM 5 | RANKING | |
| Arizona | 1 | Alaska | 50 | |
| Mississippi | 2 | Massachusetts | 49 | |
| Georgia | 3 | Oregon | 48 | |
| Arkansas | 4 | New York | 47 | |
| West Virginia | 5 | Connecticut | 46 |
“Every American should have the freedom to pursue opportunity without unnecessary government barriers standing in the way,” said Florida State Representative and ALEC National Chair Demi Busatta. “States That Work gives lawmakers a clear roadmap for expanding worker freedom, removing barriers to employment, and creating an environment where workers, families, and businesses can thrive.”
Mississippi (#2), West Virginia (#5), and North Dakota (#24) recorded some of the largest score improvements since last year’s report, reflecting the adoption of additional pro-worker policies. Meanwhile, Alaska, Massachusetts, Oregon, New York, and Connecticut remain in the bottom five.
“States That Work shows that the states giving workers the greatest freedom to earn a living are also creating an environment where businesses and families can thrive,” said report author and ALEC Commerce, Insurance and Economic Development Task Force Director Alan Jernigan. “From protecting Right to Work to removing unnecessary licensing barriers, states have a clear roadmap for expanding opportunity without growing government.”
The fourth edition arrives amid renewed national attention to labor reform, with President Trump taking steps to rein in the power of public-sector unions and policymakers in both parties advancing occupational licensing reforms.