Rankings 2014
Education:
29th
Economy:
24th
Safety:
31st
Environment:
38th
Health:
46th
Infrastructure:
20th
Government:
1st
Results Champion?: YES
According to the overall government outcomes measures, Indiana has the most effective and efficient state government in the United States. Much of this is due to solid government finances (except in pension liabilities), coupled with effective use of technology, data access and transparency, and Indiana’s own use of scorecards to make strategic decisions.
Despite great scores in government, Indiana is not without issue. The state ranks below average compared to other states in the realms of public health and environment. Adult obesity, infant mortality, smoking rates, and quality of life are all in their bottom 10 rankings, respectively. Additionally, Indiana’s levels of carbon dioxide emissions are 43rd in the US.
Recommendations
Tackling health is the top priority for Indiana. Behavioral incentives to reduce the rates of smoking and obesity should be considered to alleviate these outcomes. Addressing an unfunded pension system and increasing the number of college educated citizens are also areas Indiana could improve.