For Immediate Release
June 5, 2009

Contact:
Lloyd "Skip" Brown
(216) 522-4900

Washington, DC – Today, the United States Department of Labor released the May 2009 Employment Situation.
 
Nationwide nearly 345,000 U.S. jobs were lost in May, pushing the national unemployment rate to 9.4 percent. This is the highest unemployment rate in more than 25 years. The nation's unemployment rate was up from 8.9 percent in April, which underscores that 14.5 million Americans are unable to find work. Labor Secretary Hilda Solis, on a recent visit to Cleveland, Ohio, met with entrepreneurs and political leaders.  While there, she commented, "The unemployment rate is unacceptable," and pledged to help the unemployed obtain new skills and training.

"America's unemployment rate is sobering, but the nation is slowly on the mend. This is evident in the many states where the unemployment rate is decreasing," said Rep. Marcia L. Fudge (OH-11) "Ohio still has tough days ahead, but Ohioans are even tougher. Slowly, but surely the Greater Cleveland area will regain its economic momentum and vitality."

"Within Congress, my primary goal is to help Ohio's families by supporting the creation of sustainable jobs and training opportunities in burgeoning industries. We must do all that we can to help hardworking Americans get back to work," continued Rep. Fudge.

"A portion of worker training is education. For individuals seeking financial assistance to fund their education, it is easier than ever to access federal student aid. In fact, the Departments of Labor and Education are working together to make the process even easier.  I encourage workers to visit their website, www.opportunity.gov, for more information," concluded Rep. Fudge.  

President Obama announced that unemployed workers receiving unemployment benefits may qualify for federal assistance for education and training. One example is the Federal Pell Grant program which can provide up to $ 5,350 for education costs at community colleges, colleges and universities, and many trade and technical schools. There are many other federal student aid programs available to assist unemployed workers. For extensive information, please visit www.opportunity.gov.

To view the full May 2009 Employment Situation  visit http://www.bls.gov/news.release/empsit.nr0.htm.

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