Washington, D.C. (December 6, 2013) – In response to the Bureau of Labor Statistics monthly jobs report showing the construction unemployment rate slightly improving to 8.6% percent, from 9 percent in October, General President of LIUNA – the Laborers' International Union of North America – Terry O’Sullivan issued the following statement:

“Today’s report shows that, in addition to creating jobs for the more than 700,000 people still looking for work in the construction industry, Congress needs to do more to improve wages as well. Job levels are finally returning to 2008 levels, but construction workers are still working longer hours without any significant wage increases. Recent proposals for investing in America’s infrastructure – such as the WRDA Act, BRIDGE Act and UPDATE Act – will help lift up depressed wages in the construction industry by creating more family-sustaining jobs that allow working men and women to earn their way into America’s middle class. We will continue working, on behalf of millions of construction workers, with policy makers on both sides of the aisle to pass these bills as soon as possible.”

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Background:

• BLS Construction Unemployment: Improves from 9% to 8.6%

The half-million members of LIUNA – the Laborers’ International Union of North America – are on the forefront of the construction industry, a powerhouse of workers who are proud to build America. For the latest news, check out our media kit here.