Unemployment Falls to 5.7 Percent
The House Republican Caucus continues to support pro-jobs initiatives including legislation that has encouraged private sector business growth, stopped lawsuit abuse and enacted unemployment compensation reform. Those successful efforts have led to an unemployment rate that is the lowest in nearly six years.
The Commonwealth’s jobless rate dropped by three-tenths of a point in April to 5.7 percent, the lowest it’s been since September 2008. While we still have much work to do, there’s no denying that this is a very good sign.
Preventing West Nile Virus
The first detection in 2014 of a West Nile virus-carrying mosquito was found recently in central Pennsylvania. Last year, West Nile virus was detected in 42 counties, resulting in 11 human cases reported statewide.
Although most people do not become ill when infected with the virus, all are at risk. Older adults and those with compromised immune systems are at the highest risk of becoming ill and developing severe complications.
In 2004, Pennsylvania began its pest management program, which has improved control of mosquito populations. For more information and tips on prevention, please click here.
Honoring Their Sacrifice
Monday, May 26, is Memorial Day, a time to honor and remember those who have died in service to the United States of America. I would like to offer my special thanks to those who serve, those who previously served, and the surviving family and friends of those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
The first Memorial Day was established and recognized by the Grand Army of the Republic in 1868. It was not until 1971 that Memorial Day was declared a national holiday by Congress.
PennDOT Driver License, Photo Centers Closed for Holiday
All PennDOT driver license and photo centers will be closed Saturday, May 24, through Monday, May 26, in observance of the Memorial Day holiday. However, customers may still obtain a variety of driver and vehicle products and services online through PennDOT’s Driver and Vehicle Services website.
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