Meek Statement on Recent Unemployment Rate Increase

 

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Rep. Kendrick B. Meek issued the following statement after the Department of Labor reported that the U.S. economy lost more than half a million jobs in December 2008, and the unemployment rate rose to a 15-year high of 7.2 percent:

 

“The report issued by the Department of Labor made it absolutely clear that Democrats must continue to work hard on legislation to help families stay in their homes, keep their health insurance, obtain employment, and support their loved ones throughout this difficult situation. The highest since early 1993, the 524,000 jobs slashed have affected workers, companies and families more than our nation ever anticipated. Since our nation found itself in recession in December 2007, the economy has shed 3.6 million jobs which show that we have closed out the worst year for job losses since World War II. Recent data show South Florida’s unemployment rate was 6.4 percent in November, which was the lowest among the state’s major metro areas.

 

“Though Florida’s job numbers for December are scheduled to be released in two weeks, Democrats will proceed to construct a recovery package to create jobs and spur long-term economic growth.

 

“Our nation’s current state demands immediate action. With the incoming Obama Administration, we can positively restart our economy and repair the damages that have been made throughout the past eight years.”

U.S. Rep. Kendrick B. Meek represents the 17^th Congressional District of Florida which includes parts of Miami-Dade and Broward Counties. He serves as the lone Floridian sitting on the House Committee on Ways and Means, and also sits on the House Armed Services Committee.

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