Posted by admin - January 15, 2012 - News
Montana Employers Saved Millions Through Work Opportunity Tax Credit
(Helena, MT) Montana employers who participated in the Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) program through the Department of Labor and Industry saved $8,850,600.00 in 2011 (October 1, 2010 – September 30, 2011). “It’s encouraging to see so many of Montana’s employers using this program. Not only does it benefit those employers, but it puts people facing barriers to work into jobs, as well; a win, win for everyone,” said Labor Commissioner Keith Kelly.
As of September 30, 2011 (FFY 11), the Department processed 8,576 WOTC applications, certifying 3,479 of those requests. As of 12/31/2011 the program has 2,049 participating employers.
Read more Work Opportunity Tax Credit update
Posted by admin - December 22, 2011 - News
December 20, 2011
Montana Unemployment Rate Drops Half Point to 7.1%
(HELENA) — Montana’s unemployment rate dropped by 0.5% to 7.1% in November, marking the third straight month of unemployment rate decreases. The U.S. unemployment rate also experienced a large decrease, dropping 0.4% to 8.6% in November.
“Montana’s economy continues to recover, and the pace of job growth is improving. It is nice to share positive economic news during the holiday season,” said Labor Commissioner Keith Kelly.
The drop in the unemployment rate is primarily due to an increase of about 1,730 jobs over the last month. The number of unemployed fell 2,230 over the last month. Total employment estimates have posted job growth throughout 2011, with the exception of the third quarter.
Payroll employment estimates, however, indicate a drop of 2,600 jobs over the month, with employment losses concentrated in Government, Construction, Arts, Entertainment & Recreation. Contradictory results from the two employment estimates are not unusual because of a small sample size, and preliminary estimates are regularly revised in the following month when additional employment information becomes available. Both the total and payroll employment estimates have indicated job growth over the past year.
The Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U) was unchanged for November after price declines in October. The energy index declined for the second straight month, offsetting increases other prices. The index for all items less food and energy (also called core inflation) increased by 0.2%.
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Commissioner’s Office
Contact Casey Kyler-West, Communications Director
TELEPHONE: (406)444-1520 P.O. BOX 1728
FAX: (406)444-1394 HELENA, MT
e-mail: ckylerwest@mt.gov 59624-1728
Barbara Wagner, Senior Economist
(406) 444-5474
Posted by admin - December 12, 2011 - News
Read all about how Rich Milender of Superior and other Mineral County MT citizens are making a difference for local businesses. Tell us about your UPCOMING EVENTS and we’ll include on our CALENDAR. Click here for info:Website Update Donation_12_11-update release
