Statement by Governor Ted Kulongoski on April employment numbers
(Salem) - “Today’s employment rate gives us some hope that our economy is no longer in free fall, and that the efforts by President Obama to provide a parachute for our economy are starting to deliver results.
“While the unemployment rate has remained flat for the last month, there are still thousands of Oregonians looking for work to support themselves and their families. To those Oregonians seeking employment, let me assure you creating jobs is my number one priority.
“On Friday I announced a new emergency jobs program for consideration by the state legislature to get more than 12,000 unemployed Oregonians working this summer. I know the legislature joins me in this priority and I hope to see this legislation fast-tracked so that we can put people to work through this program by July 1.
“The legislature is also working on approximately $2 billion in capital construction projects, including more than $1 billion in transportation, to create thousands of jobs starting this summer and throughout the next year.
“As I said on Friday, if I could, I would lift the dark veil of this economic downturn immediately, but I can’t do that. So today our minds must be focused on putting our citizens back to work – and if we do that, I promise you there is a better day coming for Oregon.”
Contacts:
Anna Richter Taylor, 503-378-6169
Rem Nivens, 503-378-6496
Jillian Schoene, 503-378-5040
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