Joel Kotkin: Illinois needs competitive public policies

Noted futurist and author Joel Kotkin visited the Illinois Policy Institute Wednesday to discuss how Illinois can brighten its economic and social outlook. In his remarks, Kotkin discussed the importance of good public policies that will allow people and businesses to thrive. When bad public policies are enacted, people vote with their feet – which...

Noted futurist and author Joel Kotkin visited the Illinois Policy Institute Wednesday to discuss how Illinois can brighten its economic and social outlook.

In his remarks, Kotkin discussed the importance of good public policies that will allow people and businesses to thrive. When bad public policies are enacted, people vote with their feet – which is why population trends provide a glimpse of how society will change over the next few decades. For example, when it comes to Illinois the high taxation and corruption in government has contributed to the state having the second highest out-migration in the country during 2010, he told a packed house at the Institute event.

“Look at the feet. Where are people going? Are they coming to your city or are they leaving your city?” Kotkin said.

To hear more of his remarks – plus his suggestions for steps Illinois can take to improve its business climate – watch this video below: