The Bureau of Labor Statistics released the September unemployment numbers on October 5, showing the economy gained 114,000 jobs and the unemployment rate dropped to 7.8 percent. The following is a statement from BlueGreen Alliance Executive Director David Foster:
“Capping a summer season of moderate growth on a high note, today’s jobs numbers are encouraging news for American workers. This month’s economic growth can set the wheels in motion for more significant gains in the coming months.
“However, if Congress continues to ignore proven job-creating green investments like the Production Tax Credit, the Advanced Energy Project Credit (48C) and the Investment Tax Credit, we won’t fully realize our economic potential. The Production Tax Credit for the wind industry works to grow manufacturing and construction jobs. But, because Congress has not acted, people like Pennsylvania wind industry worker Ryan Motel are getting furloughed when they should be building the wind blades that will power our nation now and in the future.
“Indisputably, a greener future is one that is better for everyone and better for the economy. It’s better when the auto industry is cranking out the fuel-efficient vehicles that consumers want. It’s better when we begin to utilize the vast offshore wind energy potential America has to power our coasts and beyond. And, it’s better when even more workers are employed in the good, clean economy jobs that are boosting American competitiveness and sustaining the environment.
“Congress must start with renewing the Production Tax Credit for wind, the Advanced Energy Project Credit (48c) and the Investment Tax Credit for offshore wind to protect current jobs and spur job growth now. From there, we can renew investments in the industries of the future, like those in the Jobs21! plan — transportation, clean energy, energy efficiency, infrastructure, recycling, manufacturing, and more — that have grown America’s economy and will payoff for years to come.”
[mappress]
Press release, October 7, 2012; Image: BlueGreen Alliance