July Jobs Report: Work Increases, but Wages Remain Stagnant

WASHINGTON, Aug. 2, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Today's jobs report shows July construction industry unemployment decreasing to 9.1% from 9.8% in June, the lowest rate in five years, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Terry O'Sullivan, General President of LIUNA – the Laborers' International Union of North America – issued the following statement:

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"Workers in the construction industry are finally starting to see job levels rise, albeit still lagging other sectors and with wages which remain stagnant. Policy makers need to take the politics out of the approval process for important private sector construction projects that will put Americans back to work in family-supporting jobs. And President Obama and Congress can further boost job opportunities along with wages by coming together to secure a long term investment strategy that fully invests in our nation's crumbling roads, bridges and other critical infrastructure."

Background:

• NBC News: US bridges decay, while politicians focus on ribbon cutting
• Center for American Progress: Unions Are Necessary to Rebuilding Our Middle Class
• LIUNA: Unions Offer Better Wages, Training and Benefits

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.

SOURCE Laborers' International Union of North America