Washington, DC – U.S. Representative Judy Biggert (R-IL-13th) today issued the following statement after the U.S. Department of Labor reported that the unemployment rate last month rose to 8.3 percent, from 8.2 percent in June:

            “After 42 consecutive months of unemployment at 8 percent or higher, this kind of jobs report has become familiar.  Our small businesses are struggling, and the result is fewer jobs for middle-class families.  Compounding the problem are looming tax hikes, which add even more uncertainty to a difficult situation.  Washington needs to cut through the politics and give our families and employers the financial certainty they deserve. 

            “This week, the House approved legislation to ensure that no one is blindsided on January 1^st with a return of the marriage penalty, the AMT, higher rates on capital gains, dividends, estates and painful tax hikes on income.  I hope the Senate will follow suit immediately.

            “In the meantime, my office is hosting fairs in our community to connect job seekers and local employers with new opportunities.  On August 21^st, at the Romeoville Recreation Center, local residents are invited to come to our job fair and find career opportunities at some of the great companies in our area.  On August 23^rd, at the Eola Community Center in Aurora, small business managers and entrepreneurs are invited to learn about new markets and grant opportunities with the federal government.”

NOTE: For more information about Rep. Biggert’s Jobs Fair and Small Business Fair, click here.

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