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Survey says: Tenn. business community bullish on state economy

MURFREESBORO, Tenn. (WMOT)  --  A new survey suggests that Tennessee business leaders are bullish on the state economy, but far less confident about the national and global economy.

Middle Tennessee State University and the Tennessee Chamber of Commerce and Industry have teamed up to begin what they’re calling the Tennessee Business Barometer.

The survey will be conducted quarterly statewide.The inaugural survey was conducted the first full week in July and included more than 130 responses.

Barometer director, Dr. Tim Graeff says Tennessee’s business community is upbeat about the state and local business outlook, but skeptical about the future of the wider economy.

In spite of their reservations, Graeff says most do plan to hire additional employees, if they can find them.

“So you get this interesting tension: They want to grow, they’re hopeful about the future of their business, they want to hire people to help them grow, but they’re having a difficul t time finding those people.”

Graeff says  business leaders are also concerned about rising healthcare costs and the potential for additional government regulation.

Would you like to review the complete survey?