A recent statistical analysis that considered the relationship between state auditor liability positions to third parties for negligent misrepresentation and state business friendliness revealed

a. the legal standard in a state for auditor liability to third parties is not associated with the quality of audits done within its borders (for property-casualty insurers)

b. no significant correlations were found between state liability positions and corresponding state business friendliness

c. that states are not cognizant of third-party protection and the use of auditors as gatekeepers to curtail managerial indiscretion

d. None of the above