Whitmer on 8 Months of Declining Unemployment

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

September 15, 2021

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Governor Whitmer Statement on Eight Straight Months of Declining Unemployment

Governor highlights August jobs report showing lowest unemployment level since March 2020, touches on proposed investments in small business, childcare, health, housing, and more

LANSING, Mich.—Governor Gretchen Whitmer issued the following statement after the release of Michigan’s August unemployment numbers. The state’s unemployment last month was down to 4.7%, below the national average and the lowest level since March 2020.

“Michigan’s economy is headed in the right direction, but we know we still have more to do to get Michiganders back to work. Our unemployment rate is below the national average, businesses are staffing up, and personal income is up 19.1%, year over year, the fourth-highest nationwide. There is plenty to be optimistic about, but despite eight straight months of declining unemployment, we have more to do to ensure every family, community, and small business can thrive as we usher in a new era of prosperity for our state.

“I have laid out a range of plans that utilize the massive influx of federal funds we have received to make game-changing investments in the kitchen-table, fundamental issues that matter most to Michiganders. This includes a plan to expand access to childcare, invest in small businesses and entrepreneurship, upgrade our state and local parks, build affordable housing units, bolster public health departments and mental health resources, and more.

“I look forward to working with anyone who wants to put Michiganders first. Together, we can power our economy to new highs, build on the progress we have made, and get things done for our families, communities, and small businesses.”

Michigan’s economy grew 7.6% in the first quarter of 2021, the best in the Midwest. The state also went from a projected $3 billion deficit to a $3.5 billion surplus and continues to lead the nation in automotive manufacturing. Personal income was up 19.1% in the first quarter of 2021 compared to the first quarter of 2020, the fourth-largest increase in the nation.

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