Press Release

Statement by Secretary Gutierrez on August’s Employment Report

WASHINGTON—U.S. Secretary of Commerce Carlos M. Gutierrez today released the following statement on the August Employment Report, which showed that the unemployment rate is 6.1 percent:

“We are disappointed with today’s employment report. Congress should focus its attention on ways to help our economy. The tax cuts should be made permanent to help small businesses innovate and create jobs. Congress also needs to take action on an energy plan that expands domestic energy production and refining capacity and encourages the development of alternative energy sources. Free trade agreements are vital to our economy and we must do more to open up markets to further boost our growth. Congress must schedule a vote on the pending free trade agreements to keep our nation competitive and support our exporters by leveling the playing field.”