Job Gap Between Women and Men in Economic Recovery
IWPR analysis of data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (updated on September 1) finds that, in the economic recovery, women are lagging behind men in job gains. While men lost more jobs during the recession, women's unemployment has remained relatively stable since June 2009--while men's unemployment has decreased.
Steps for Improving Women's Employment
In a briefing paper, the Womens Scholars Forum, a group of economics and policy experts, outlined several steps that the administration could take to address women's unemployment and close the job gap. The group met with members of President Obama's economic team in the days leading up to the announcement of the American Jobs Act on September 9.
American Jobs Act and Women
IWPR's briefing paper on boosting employment for women was cited in a fact sheet released by the White House that discusses the impact of the American Jobs Act on women.
Media Coverage of IWPR's Job Gap Research:
- The Huffington Post, "Obama Jobs Plan: Women Pleasantly Surprised" (August 9)
- MarketWatch, "Job Recovery Gap Between Men, Women: Study" (September 7)
- The New York Times Economix Blog, "Public Job Creation" (September 5)
- The Huffington Post, "What's Good for Women Is Good for the Nation: Jobs, Livable Wages and Equal Pay" (September 4)
Seattle Adopts Paid Sick Leave Legislation
On September 12, Seattle joined two other cities, Washington, DC and Milwaukee, WI, in adopting paid sick leave legislation that will require businesses and employers to offer workers paid time off for an illness. This law will help to ensure employees are not penalized or fired for taking time off from work to treat an illness or care for a sick family member. IWPR research helped to inform community leaders' efforts to pass the law.
IWPR Research on Paid Sick Days: Impact on Employment
IWPR continues to research the impact of paid sick days legislation. In August, IWPR released a fact sheet showing that San Francisco, CA, maintained lower unemployment levels than surrounding counties--even after enforcement of the city's paid sick leave ordinance began in 2007.
Pending Paid Sick Days Law in Denver
Paid sick leave legislation is pending in cities and states nationwide. Denver, CO, is set to decide on a paid sick leave law in a November ballot initiative.
Media Coverage of IWPR Research on Paid Sick Days:
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