Democrats’ A Better Deal plan will open new opportunities for millions of Americans to get back into the labor force and connect with good-paying jobs. While the low headline unemployment rate in 2017 suggests that the U.S. economy is operating at full employment—the maximum rate thought not to spark inflation—a closer analysis of the labor market data reveals that millions of Americans have fallen to the wayside.
Ensuring that every child has the opportunity to succeed is the bedrock of the American Dream. A high-quality education that starts early and continues into adulthood enables students to develop the skills necessary to thrive in the modern economy. Unfortunately, many children today are starting off behind and entering kindergarten classrooms with little or no formal education. For these children, catching up to their peers can be a lifelong struggle.
Sep 01 2017
August Economic Snapshot of the States
Since taking office more than seven months ago, the Trump administration and Congressional Republicans have failed to provide a credible plan to create good paying jobs and increase wages for America’s workers—it is evident in the August economic snapshot of states. The economic uncertainty created and fueled by this administration’s unprecedented dysfunction, despite controlling two branches of government, is stalling what had been resurgent wage growth that reached 3.9 percent in November 2016 for the median U.S. worker.
Sep 01 2017
On-Call, Without Pay
On-call scheduling also makes it more difficult to plan for child care, elder care, transportation and other arrangements that would allow employees to go to work while balancing their other responsibilities. Being required to call in an hour before their shift to see if they are needed prevents workers from doing anything else with their day, including furthering their education or seeking wages elsewhere.
These fact sheets focus on the economic benefits of national monuments to their surrounding communities ahead of the Trump administration’s decision to propose removing designation in whole or in part from national monuments. The fact sheets include newly designated national monuments, marine national monuments, and others under review.
Aug 02 2017
Expanding Registered Apprenticeships
Joint Economic Committee Democrats released a fact sheet on increasing access to registered apprenticeships and quality work-based learning programs. By doubling federal investments in apprenticeship programs, millions of Americans could fill the middle and high-skilled jobs openings that exist today and in the future. Despite their proven track record of success, only approximately 505,000 apprentices are utilizing existing Department of Labor registered programs today.
Jul 28 2017
July Economic Snapshot of the States
These state economic snapshots survey the economic situation on the ground in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Although the U.S. economy overall continues its expansion from the Great Recession and associated financial crisis, the recovery can look very different from state to state, and even county to county. While some areas of the country have surged ahead, other regions are still struggling to regain their economic footing.
Jul 25 2017
Education: The Foundation for Economic Success
Joint Economic Committee Democrats released the first in a series of reports today on education as the foundation for economic success. The introductory report outlines the value of education in today’s economy, and where the United States falls short. Although overall educational attainment has been on the rise, many groups of Americans are being left behind in a labor market that increasingly requires more education.
Jul 13 2017
Public Lands Spur Local Economies
United States public lands are a cherished aspect of American heritage, and a key contributor to local economies. With their stunning views and unmatched recreational opportunities, national parks and public lands attract visitors, support jobs and drive economic growth in communities across the country. Rural economies in particular benefit from proximity to public lands.
Instead of focusing on improving health care delivery in rural America, Senate Republicans passed a bill that will only make it harder to access affordable, quality health services in rural communities across the country.