Pam Roberts: State needs comeback in manufacturing Oct 31, 2009
South Dakota's secretary of labor told local residents attending Wednesday's business banquet that manufacturing will need to make a comeback in South Dakota to help the state emerge from its current economic doldrums. Labor Secretary Pam Roberts compared the state's unemployment rate for the last two Septembers -- numbers that were troubling but still better than other states. (Madison Daily Leader, SD)
Bring on the banking dullards Oct 29, 2009
As an assistant secretary of labor during the John F Kennedy and part of the Lyndon B Johnson administrations, he wrote reports suggesting that the American poor might be at least partially responsible for their predicament, an outrageous apostasy from the then dominant liberal canon. He later went on to be US ambassador to the United Nations (1975-76) and the first in that position who believed that he fulfilled. (Asia Times Online)
John McCain coming to University of Louisville Oct 29, 2009
Mitch McConnell and his wife, former U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine Chao. McCain s speech will be held at 9 a.m. in Cardinal Arena on the university s Belknap Campus. (Louisville Business First, KY)
Man filming Immokalee farmworkers' protest a Publix worker Oct 24, 2009
Last month, U.S. Secretary of Labor Hilda Solis lauded the group for forging a three-way agreement with East Coast Growers and Compass, the world's largest food-service company, to raise harvesters' wages. Compass joined the three largest fast-food companies - Yum Brands, McDonald's and Burger King - and Whole Foods, the largest natural food chain, in the agreement. (The News-Press -- Business)
Marsh workers to get federal benefits Oct 24, 2009
All workers, including those impacted by trade, deserve our support as they upgrade current skills or seek out new careers in promising regional industries, said Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis. Marsh CEO Terry Dickey said the TAA determination was related to layoffs the cabinet maker made several months ago. (Business Journal of the Greater Triad Area)
Texas awarded $15M in job training funds Oct 23, 2009
The funding announced today underscores the Labor Department s continued commitment to helping workers who are adversely impacted by trade by ensuring they have the help they need to re-enter the workforce and secure family supporting wages, says U.S. Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis. The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 expanded funding for the Trade Adjustment Assistance program and authorized an increase in the maximum amount of funds that can be used for training from $220... (Dallas Business Journal, TX)
Palo Alto declares 'impasse' on negotiations Oct 23, 2009
" And at "this point" the new Secretary of Labor took over announcing "there is a new sheriff in town". Different points in different times. Different publics and different joys. Posted by I know, a resident of the South of Midtown neighborhood, 17 hours agoExcuse me but how can Jim Keene ask for people to give up salaries and benefits when he himself does not practice what he preaches. Why doesn't Jim give up his extras, like his city home loan and car who the city pays for along with his med... (Palo Alto Online, CA)
N.C. gets $43M for outsourcing casualties Oct 22, 2009
The funding announced today underscores the Labor Department s continued commitment to helping workers who are adversely impacted by trade by ensuring they have the help they need to re-enter the workforce and secure family supporting wages, said Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis. North Carolina will receive the dollars once the Labor Department receives its fiscal year 2010 congressional appropriation. (Triangle Business Journal)
Madison leaders discuss economy with Rounds Oct 16, 2009
Rounds was in Madison with S.D. Secretary of Labor Pam Roberts on Wednesday to sit down with local business leaders and discuss local and state issues. State budgets have been supplemented with federal stimulus funds in the 2009 and '10 fiscal years, and stimulus dollars are projected to be available for the 2011 budget. (Madison Daily Leader, SD)
Mass. Jobless Rate Highest in 30 Years at 9.3 Pct Oct 16, 2009
Suzanne Bump, state Secretary of Labor and Workforce Development, said despite the most recent unemployment report the Massachusetts economy was still showing positive trends, including a net gain of 2,000 private sector jobs since April. She also said last month's job report pointed to an increase in September in the hiring of temporary employees, which can often be a harbinger of recovery. (ABC News -- Wire)
Enzi blocks Labor appointee Oct 16, 2009
As Labor Department solicitor, Smith would serve as general counsel to the Secretary of Labor. She would be responsible for helping shape policy, oversee litigation and coordinate the activities of the Wage and Hour Division. (Casper Star-Tribune, WY)
Wall Street Eyes the 10,000 Mark Oct 14, 2009
Remember Ms. Elaine Chao - the Secretary of Labor in GWB's "Either you are with us or you are against us" Administration ... After all she's the Secretary of Labor during GWB's tenure. (CBS News -- Early Show)
Sacramentans named to Hispanic 100 list Oct 14, 2009
The magazine also selected Hilda Solis, U.S. Secretary of Labor, and Ken Salazar, U.S. Secretary of the Interior. Macias has been chairman of the California Hispanic Chambers of Commerce since 2007. (Sacramento Business Journal, CA)
Maryland wins $5.4 million for insurance fund infrastructure Oct 1, 2009
The goal is to ensure that claims and benefits are processed correctly and quickly, Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis said in a statement released Monday. Maryland is facing larger problems than infrastructure when it comes to its unemployment insurance fund. (Baltimore Business Journal, MD)
Without Bush, media lose interest in war caskets... Sep 30, 2009
Ramirez was a special assistant to Secretary of Labor Hilda. The Senate Finance Committee has rejected a second attempt to insert a public option into a sweeping health care reform bill the panel is drafting. (The Drudge Report)
Labor officials want benefits extension Sep 25, 2009
Kansas Secretary of Labor Jim Garner was among the officials calling Thursday for a broader extension of unemployment insurance. The U.S. House of Representatives voted earlier in the week to extend unemployment insurance benefits by 13 weeks in states with unemployment rates of 8. (Wichita Business Journal, KS)
Write Your Own Health Reform Bill! Sep 22, 2009
John Cornyn, R.-Texas, has an amendment that would require the secretary of labor to certify that a "free rider" tax won't result in lower wages or higher employment. This seems mainly an attempt to embarrass the Obama administration. (Slate)
Hispanic Contractors wins OSHA grant Sep 19, 2009
Safe jobs are our priority, Secretary of Labor Hilda Solis says. Providing workers and employers the knowledge and tools they need to ensure safe working conditions is the best way to prevent workers from getting injured or killed on the job. (San Antonio Business Journal, TX)
LETTER: Keep health care plan in people's best interest Sep 18, 2009
father bob wrote on Sep 14, 2009 1:17 PM:" interesting that no one has said a word about president bush's Medicare Part D fiasco which has cost the seniors of this country a few trillion or so....and forget the "gang of six"...Following the president's speech last week, Max Baucus announced that he is more amenable to a public option. A bill will be forthcoming, he said.Two points:1. Robert Reich, former Secretary of Labor, questioned on his blog last week why the "Gang" had so much power.The... (Mattoon Journal-Gazette, IL)
Job cuts in Mass. slow in August Sep 18, 2009
But recent trends are hopeful, said Suzanne Bump, state secretary of labor and workforce development. Stripping out government job losses, private employers have added about 11,000 jobs since April, the first sustained private sector job growth since the first quarter of 2008, she said. (Boston Globe)
Labor Secretary Backs Las Vegas Vets Sep 12, 2009
U.S. Vets is a local organization helping some of these veterans and Friday Secretary of Labor Hilda Solis toured their facility. While there, she addressed veterans about the importance of getting them back into the workforce and taking care of them and their families. (KLAS-TV.com, NV)
Kenosha Chrysler workers eligible for aid Sep 11, 2009
Auto workers around the country are facing reduced hours and layoffs as a direct result of foreign competition, U.S. Secretary of Labor Hilda Solis said. These workers deserve our support as they upgrade current skills or seek out new careers in promising regional industries. (Milwaukee Business Journal, WI)
U.S. Labor Department issues reports on international child labor and forced labor Sep 10, 2009
"It is my strong hope that consumers, firms, governments, labor unions and other stakeholders will use this information to translate their economic power into a force for good that ultimately will eliminate abusive child labor and forced labor," said Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis. The TVPRA List informs the public about 122 goods from 58 countries that ILAB has reason to believe are produced by forced labor, child labor or both in violation of international standards. (PR Newswire)
Statement by U.S. Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis on reports detailing international child labor and forced labor Sep 10, 2009
Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis issued the following statement. "Child labor and forced labor are inexcusable abuses of human rights, and these reports show that they continue to be a problem in 21st century society. We must do everything in our power to end these shameful practices. "While the United States is fundamentally opposed to the exploitation of any worker, the plight of children and adults working in forced labor is especially severe. (PR Newswire)
Workers deported Sep 8, 2009
When any vacancy occurs in these positions the same shall be filled by the secretary of labor, with the approval of the council of national defense. In all cases of individual grievances, the administrator shall render his decision within five days after the case is submitted to him, and in all grievances of a general character, the administrator shall render his decision within 30 days after the case is submitted to him. (Sierra Vista Herald, AZ)
Secretary Of Labor Visiting El Paso Sep 8, 2009
She is the first Hispanic Secretary of Labor. Her visit comes after trips to the borderland by house majority leader Steny Hoyer, Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano, and Border Czar Alan Bersin, among others. (KFOXTV.com, TX)
ELAINE L. CHAO: Prosperity light years away with Obama's plan Sep 8, 2009
Elaine L. Chao, who served as secretary of labor in the Bush administration, is a distinguished fellow at The Heritage Foundation. Readers may write to her in care of The Heritage Foundation, 214 Massachusetts Avenue NE, Washington, D.C. 20002. (Fresno Bee -- Opinion)
Statement by U.S. Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis for Labor Day Sep 5, 2009
WASHINGTON, Sept. 4 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis today issued the following statement for Labor Day. "On Monday, Sept. 7, we will celebrate a great American holiday - Labor Day. Over the years, it may have become a time for backyard barbecues. But the real intent behind today's holiday is honoring the contributions of American workers. "Labor Day differs significantly from other holidays. (PR Newswire)
State jobless pay to end for many Sep 5, 2009
They shouldn t give up hope, said Suzanne Bump, state secretary of labor and workforce development. They should continue job searches, no matter how discouraging the results have been. (Boston Globe)
Winston & Strawn Picks Up Bush's Solicitor of Labor Sep 4, 2009
Jacob has had a varied government career, including serving as senior adviser to the secretary of Labor, as special assistant to President George W. Bush for domestic policy, specializing in immigration and justice issues, and as attorney-adviser in the Justice Department's Office of Legal Counsel, where he was awarded the Exceptional Civilian Service Award by the Defense Department. "Greg brings a highly valued and diverse labor and employment background," said Thomas Mills, managing partner of... (Law.com)
SIRIUS XM Radio To Celebrate Labor Day Weekend With Special Music Programming Sep 3, 2009
Listeners will hear specials with Brooks Jimmy Buffett, Grateful Dead, Reba McEntire, Rick Springfield and more Secretary of Labor Hilda Solis to host Labor Day special on The Spectrum ... The Spectrum's Labor Day Weekend with the Secretary of Labor ... Secretary of Labor Hilda Solis will play music about work and will honor the American workforce with songs by Bruce Springsteen, John Lennon, The Clash, They Might Be Giants and others. (Yahoo! Wire -- Entertainment News)
Thompson: Thurmond may have to aim higher Aug 30, 2009
"I appreciate the opportunity afforded by Secretary of Labor Hilda Solis and Assistant Secretary Jane Oates to serve in the Obama administration. However, after much thought and prayer, I have decided to continue focusing my energy and efforts on helping nearly half-a-million jobless Georgians get back to work," the announcement read, in its entirety. Thurmond's announcement fueled speculation that he might make a run at the lieutenant governor's office, possibly in some sort of coordinated... (Athens Banner-Herald)
Thurmond passes on move to Washington Aug 28, 2009
I appreciate the opportunity afforded by Secretary of Labor Hilda Solis and Assistant Secretary Jane Oates to serve in the Obama administration. However, after much thought and prayer, I have decided to continue focusing my energy and efforts on helping nearly half-a-million jobless Georgians get back to work. (Atlanta Journal-Constitution -- Metro)
Easing the pain of a shutdown Aug 28, 2009
When we first heard of the Jabil closure, we did not know that a new standard for assisting laid-off workers would be set, said Suzanne Bump, the state s secretary of Labor and Workforce Development. Yesterday s event created a model closure and recruitment effort that we would like to see replicated where job losses could be offset by this kind of creative collaboration. (Boston Globe)
Federal officials release guidelines for flu season Aug 20, 2009
Keeping our nation s workers safe is a top priority, said Deputy Secretary of Labor Seth Harris, who participated in the announcement. Faced with a renewed H1N1 challenge during the coming flu season, we are developing tools that will help ensure America s workers stay healthy and our businesses remain viable. (Denver Business Journal, CO)
What FDR could teach Obama Aug 20, 2009
In hearings before the Senate Finance Committee, a senator from Oklahoma accusingly asked President Franklin D. Roosevelt's secretary of Labor, Frances Perkins, Isn't this socialism. When Perkins emphatically answered no, the senator leaned forward and, with a conspiratorial whisper, pressed, Isn't this a teeny-weeny bit of socialism. (Brainerd Daily Dispatch)
What a sweet job she had Aug 20, 2009
Statement of U.S. Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis on death of Eunice Kennedy Shriver. Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis today issued the following statement on the death of Eunice Kennedy Shriver. (Fresno Bee -- Opinion)
Today In History Aug 18, 2009
- 1954, Assistant Secretary of Labor James E. Wilkins became the first black official to attend a meeting of a president's Cabinet, as he sat in for Labor Secretary James P. Mitchell. - 1963, James Meredith became the first black student to graduate from the University of Mississippi. (Erie Times-News, PA)
NFL Alumni President To Speak At FM Chamber Luncheon Aug 16, 2009
At the request of former U.S. Secretary of Labor Elizabeth Dole, Krauser also has served on the national JTPA Advisory Board. In 1991, he was recognized as the JTPA Volunteer of the Year by then President George Bush. (The Fort Meade Leader, FL)
Another View: What Franklin D. Roosevelt can teach Obama Aug 15, 2009
In hearings before the Senate Finance Committee, a senator from Oklahoma accusingly asked President Franklin D. Roosevelt's secretary of Labor, Frances Perkins, "Isn't this socialism?" When Perkins emphatically answered no, the senator leaned forward and, with a conspiratorial whisper, pressed, "Isn't this a teeny-weeny bit of socialism?". Unlike today, however, the political rhetoric never gained traction in 1935. (Hanford Sentinal, CA)
Small actions bring individual fulfillment Aug 13, 2009
Massachusetts Secretary of Labor and Workforce Development Suzanne Bump agrees. Massachusetts is in a good position to bounce back from this. (Kingston Mariner, MA)
Grant will assist laid-off Featherlite workers Aug 10, 2009
National Emergency Grants are part of the secretary of labor s discretionary fund and are awarded based on a state s ability to meet specific guidelines. For more information, visit. (Mason City Globe-Gazette, IO)
Almost a clean getaway Aug 9, 2009
If Ortiz never cheated, he has the right to summon the words of former Secretary of Labor Raymond Donovan, who, when acquitted of larceny charges, famously said, Which office do I go to get my reputation back. We re trained to be cynical of accused cheaters who claim innocence. (Boston Globe)
Nothing To Fear by Adam Cohen Aug 8, 2009
Frances Perkins, Secretary of Labor. Henry A. Wallace, Secretary of Agriculture. (Suite101.com)
Rules of Apostrophe Usage Aug 7, 2009
Tom mistakenly went to the Secretary of Labor s office to file for unemployment. Tom thought his mother-in-law s cooking was atrocious. (Suite101.com)
U.S. Department of Labor certifies almost 2,000 auto workers in Michigan, Indiana, South Carolina and Mississippi are eligible for Trade Adjustment Assistance Aug 5, 2009
"Workers employed in auto-related fields in these states have sacrificed enormously, and they deserve our support as they look to transfer their considerable skills to new careers in promising regional industries," said Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis. "With Trade Adjustment Assistance, workers impacted by these layoffs will have the opportunity to apply for employment-related services that will help them get good jobs paying family-supporting wages.". (PR Newswire)
U.S. Labor Department's OSHA national emphasis program targets workplaces that release highly hazardous chemicals Jul 29, 2009
"Several catastrophic incidents have been caused by failure to comply with the requirements of the PSM standard," said acting Assistant Secretary of Labor for OSHA Jordan Barab. "This situation has resulted in loss of workers' lives. This national emphasis program allows OSHA inspectors to verify that employers are complying with the requirements of the PSM standard.". (PR Newswire)
QuikTrip agrees to pay nearly 750K in back pay Jul 28, 2009
"I am pleased that this case has resulted in almost 750,000 in back wages being paid to thousands of workers across nine states," Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis said in a statement Monday. "I am committed to ensuring that every worker is paid the full wages he or she is due, and that those who work overtime receive the compensation to which they are legally entitled.". (Sioux City Journal, IO)
Raising minimum wage a good startFriday, July 24, 2009 Jul 25, 2009
Now, as the U.S. secretary of labor, it s my role to vigorously enforce this law ... Hilda L. Solis is the U.S. secretary of Labor. (Missoulian, MT)
Robert Reich says Obama ready to "knock heads" on health care reform Jul 25, 2009
Robert Reich, the U.S. secretary of labor in the Clinton administration, told a conclave of healthcare executives in San Francisco Thursday afternoon that President Barack Obama needs to start knocking heads on health reform if he intends to get a major bill through Congress this fall. Reich said Obama learned from some of Bill Clinton s errors, which is why he didn t send a detailed bill to Congress that would have been dead on arrival, like the Clinton reform proposals of the early 1990s. (New Mexico Business Weekly, NM)
U.S. Department of Labor announces $220 million competition to fund programs that prepare workers for careers in health care industry Jul 25, 2009
- During a visit to the Shawnee County Community Health Center as a stop on the Obama administration's Rural Tour, Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis announced a 220 million competition to fund projects that prepare workers for careers in the health care and other high-growth industries. "An important part of our nation's continued economic recovery is ensuring that workers have the necessary skills to enter high growth industries," said Secretary Solis. (Chatham Star Tribune, VA)
Budget strife may violate right to pay Jul 25, 2009
If employers fail to comply, the U.S. Secretary of Labor can bring suit for back wages and interest, according to the department's Web site. Civil penalties also could be assessed. (Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, PA)
Minimum wage hits $7.25 as some businesses strain Jul 24, 2009
25 per hour, says Secretary of Labor Hilda Solis. Workers in 30 states and industries covered by the federal Fair Labor Standards Act are entitled to the new wage. (USA Today -- Money)
Minimum wage hike helps women Jul 24, 2009
Now, as the U.S. secretary of labor, it s my role to vigorously enforce this law ... Hilda L. Solis, a Democrat, is U.S. secretary of labor. (Atlanta Journal-Constitution -- Opinion)
Idled West Union workers get federal training aid Jul 24, 2009
(older than 14 days). Article rated a 0 by 0 users. (Waterloo-Cedar Falls Courier)
For Sheehan, a Labor of love on Holbrook cable Jul 23, 2009
Stephen Lynch, and Massachusetts Secretary of Labor Suzanne Bump. One of the programs Sheehan found most rewarding was when he discussed the issue of whether to do aerial sprayings for mosquitoes in areas of towns, he said. (Holbrook Sun, MA)
New national minimum wage takes effect Friday Jul 23, 2009
This administration is committed to improving the lives of working families across the nation, and the increase in the minimum wage is another important step in the right direction, said Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis. This well-deserved increase will help workers better provide for their families in the face of todays economic challenges. (Green River Star, WY -- Local)
Akaka chairs confirmation hearing for former Hawaii official Jul 23, 2009
Daniel K. Akaka, chairman of the Veterans' Affairs Committee, held a hearing today reviewing two nominations, including the nomination of former Honolulu resident Ray Jefferson to be Assistant Secretary of Labor for Veterans' Employment and Training. Jefferson, a disabled veteran, previously served the state of Hawaii as deputy director for the Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism. (Honolulu Advertiser)
Labor grant will help Spencer workers Jul 23, 2009
The money headed to Iowa Workforce Development comes in the form of National Emergency Grants from the U.S. Department of Labor. The money will be used to provide employment-related services such as skills assessments, career counseling or training for those workers. (Sioux City Journal)
Money available for job training in health care field Jul 22, 2009
While U.S. Secretary of Labor Hilda Solis was in Reserve on Monday, she announced that $220 million will be awarded to agencies and schools to fund education projects in health care and other high growth industries. The grants are especially intended to help people without jobs. (WWLTV.com, LA)
Minimum Wage Is Set to Rise Jul 22, 2009
"This well-deserved increase will help workers better provide for their families in the face of today's economic challenges," Secretary of Labor Hilda Solis said in a July 16. "I am especially pleased that the change will benefit working women, who make up two-thirds of minimum-wage earners.". (BusinessWeek)
Federal Minimum Wage Will Increase to $7.25 on July 24 Jul 22, 2009
"This administration is committed to improving the lives of working families across the nation, and the increase in the minimum wage is another important step in the right direction," said Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis. "This well-deserved increase will help workers better provide for their families in the face of today's economic challenges. I am especially pleased that the change will benefit working women, who make up two-thirds of minimum wage earners.". (Missourian Publishing, MO)
"Last of the Survivors" Jul 17, 2009
The duo are, as Robert Reich, a Cal-Berkeley professor and former secretary of labor in the Clinton administration, says, "the last of the survivors." J.P. Morgan Chase CEO James Dimon told analysts yesterday "the bank may start thinking about a range of actions that weren't on the table a few months ago, including potentially and buying back its stock," The Wall Street Journal writes. And, yes, the acquisitive Dimon is keeping his eyes open for new deals. (Slate)
1st Chinese-American congresswoman sworn in U.S. Jul 17, 2009
Chu filled the House seat for 32nd district in California left open by Hilda Solis, who resigned to become U.S. Secretary of Labor earlier this year. Pelosi said in a statement that as the first Chinese-American woman elected to Congress, Chu's victory is "a source of pride to many.". (Xinhuanet, China)
Three reflections on the economy Jul 11, 2009
One is an from former Secretary of Labor Robert Reich. He rhetorically asks when the recovery will begin. (Atlanta Journal-Constitution -- Business)