Many people are finding themselves without a Pennsylvania career.

According to a press release, the State of Pennsylvania’s non-farm employment dropped by 27,100 jobs during December, while the unemployment rate increased to 6.7 percent. While not many jobs have been gained, the state’s unemployment rate has been equal to or less than the national unemployment rate for 70 of the past 72 months.

“We are experiencing some of the most significant job losses we’ve seen in 18 years,” Governor Edward G. Rendell said in the release. “These are difficult times for Pennsylvania’s working families, and even more difficult for those who have lost their jobs due to the current economic conditions. I want to reassure residents that we are committed to providing them with the resources they need to make it through these tough times.”

(more…)

While a new liquefied natural gas facility could create new Maryland construction jobs, the idea of such a plant is already causing controversy throughout the state.

The U.S. Federal Energy Regulatory Commission recently issued a conditional approval of an application for a liquefied natural gas facility and pipeline in Sparrow’s Point, Md. The move not only could create several Maryland construction jobs, but also some other permanent jobs at the plant. However, the state’s government feels the plant will only cause trouble.

Governor Martin O’Malley issued a press release stating that the construction of the plant could have catastrophic security and environmental implications for the entire state, including potentially severe impacts to the Chesepeake Bay area and the fishermen and boaters who use it.

(more…)

In a time when many employees are looking for stable careers that will help the environment and be more self-fulfilling, there is a new focus on DC green jobs.

With newly-elect President Barack Obama ready to take office, many environmentalists are asking politicians that more green initiatives be included in his plan to help the economy by boosting public works spending. According to an article by The Baltimore Sun, the nation as a whole has come up with more than 15,000 public works projects at a cost of $96 billion. If approved, these projects could result in the creation of 1 million jobs.

In Washington D.C., the Blue Plains sewage treatment plant needs about $3.2 billion to improve its ability to keep harmful nutrients out of the Potomac River. The Baltimore and Annapolis areas are hoping to complete more than 50 projects at a cost of $380 million.

(more…)

More Virginia manufacturing jobs will soon be created thanks to the expansion of a well-known fitness company.

Nautilus Inc. recently announced its plan to invest $1.7 million into expanding its operations in Grayson County, a move that will create 60 new manufacturing jobs. The company plans to add a cardio exercise equipment line to its manufacturing roster. Virginia beat out Oregon and China for the project.

“Nautilus has been a major employer in Grayson County for 33 years,” Governor Timothy M. Kaine said in a press release. “The success of Virginia’s existing businesses is more crucial than ever in these times of economic downturn and I am thrilled to bring good news of jobs and investment.”

(more…)