By AP/KWMU
Jefferson City, Mo. – State officials say Missouri's economy is strong and its business climate is vibrant.
But the credit for that is a little unclear.
Leaders of the departments of Economic Development and Revenue held a periodic briefing Tuesday on the state economy.
Among the things they cited were improving employment and retail sales figures.
State Revenue Director Carol Fischer says more people are buying things as a result of President Bush's tax cuts.
But Economic Development Director Kelvin Simmons says Missouri employment figures have outpaced the national average in recent months. He says that's the result of policies of Governor Holden's administration.