In this paper we have tested various explanations for differences in rates of economic growth across states. We found no evidence consistent with Olson's hypothesis that differences in state age (a proxy for the strength of special interest groups) can explain differences in state growth....

The American states have grown at different rates throughout the twentieth century. Abstract Although many explanations have been proposed, the authors focus on two: catching up and state fiscal policies. The authors find that catching up provides the most powerful explanation for differing...