State tax systems are failing to keep up with fundamental shifts in the economy and are impeding states' overall fiscal health, according to analysis released by The Pew Charitable Trusts' Center on the States.

"State tax systems are the backbone of our national and local economies. But antiquated tax structures result in lost revenue, an environment that is inefficient and inhospitable to business, and inequitable taxes on some segments of the economy at the expense of others," said Susan Urahn, managing director of the Pew Center on the States. "This issue should be at the forefront of all policy makers' minds. Well-designed tax systems can boost economic vitality."

The U.S. economy has changed dramatically in the past three decades, largely due to new technology and telecommunications that enable instantaneous transactions in the global market. The economy in many states has shifted from manufacturing jobs to services and professional jobs. These changes place greater pressure on states to diversify their tax base and encourage newer, more innovative industries to take up residence within their borders.

Some states have taken steps to improve the way they tax citizens and corporations in an effort to encourage a broader and more equitable tax base and ensure stable revenue streams. However, many changes still need to be made.

"A successful tax structure - one that supports economic growth and meets states' fiscal needs - has at least four key components: transparency of tax incentives, efficient tax collection, stable revenue streams, and localities that have a say in how their communities are taxed," said Richard Greene, co-author of Growth and Taxes.