Pennsylvania's Job Market: A Mixed Bag

Pennsylvania is grappling with significant job market issues, ranking near the bottom nationwide.

Key Findings from Recent Study

• Ranking: Pennsylvania is 44th out of 50 states for job opportunities.
• Worker Protections: Experts highlight weaker job security and protections compared to other states.
• Tax Burden: High taxes on low and middle-income earners, with no earned income tax credit currently in place.

Factors Considered in the Study

• Unemployment rates
• Job growth
• Worker protections
• Commute times
• Workers living in poverty

Declining Job Market Rankings

• Last Year: Ranked 10th
• This Year: Dropped to 29th
• Unemployment Rate: Creeping up since September
• Underemployment Rate: 6.6%, indicating challenges in securing quality jobs

Economic Environment Struggles

• Ranking: 48th this year, down from 45th last year

Bright Spots in the Job Market

• Health Insurance: More Pennsylvanians have private health insurance compared to other states.
• Discouraged Workers: Fewer workers have given up on finding a job.
• Shared-Work Program: Helps employers retain workers during slow times by reducing hours instead of layoffs.