Washington, D.C. (November 8, 2013) – In response to the Bureau of Labor Statistics October jobs report showing the construction unemployment rate worsening to 9 percent, from 8.5 percent in September, General President of LIUNA – the Laborers' International Union of North America – Terry O’Sullivan issued the following statement:

“Today’s jobs report shows the impact of Congressional gridlock and the shutdown. However, the expected bipartisan passage of the Water Resources Reform and Development Act demonstrates how Congress can both build America and create jobs when they discard extremism that led to the shutdown. LIUNA is hopeful that coming jobs reports will reflect future bipartisan efforts to take care the basics of our country – our transportation systems, energy systems and other critical infrastructure.  A good place for Congress to start is with the federal Highway Bill, reauthorization for which is now less than a year from expiring.”

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Background:

• BLS Construction Unemployment: Improves from 8.5% to 9%
• BLS Employment Situation: Federal employment declined by 12,000 due to furloughs