This article examines the relationship between state exports and job quality across the 50 American states. An occupational distribution index is calculated and used as a proxy for state job quality. An 8-year data panel is used to estimate the impacts of exports and several control variables on the magnitude of the occupational distribution index. The article finds a nonlinear relationship between exports and job quality. Beyond some level, further increases in exports seem to have a negative impact on state job quality. Cursory attention is paid to state-by-state trends in the occupational distribution index. Secondary findings based on the model provide further insight into economic development strategies.
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