(AP) — A new monthly survey suggests the economy remains strong in nine Midwest and Plains states and business will continue to improve in the months ahead.

The overall index for the region declined to 55.6 in June from 56.2 in May, but any score above 50 suggests growth.

Creighton University economist Ernie Goss says business leaders expect slower growth in the next few months. Modest job growth is also expected as the hiring index dropped to 53.7 in June from May’s 59.3.

The survey covers Arkansas, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Oklahoma and South Dakota.

The survey of business leaders and supply managers uses a collection of indexes ranging from zero to 100. Survey organizers say any score above 50 suggests growth while a score below that suggests decline.