CBIA Response to January 2023 Employment Report

The state’s largest business organization issued the following response to today’s release of the revised 2022 and January 2023 employment reports.

“With 8,700 jobs gained in January, the year is off to a very strong start,” CBIA president and CEO Chris DiPentima said.

“Connecticut added 35,300 jobs over the past 12 months, a 2.1% increase, which  brings our COVID recovery rate up to 95%.

“We do need to keep in mind where we stand compared with the rest of the country—the national 12-month job growth rate is 2.9% with pandemic recovery at 114%.

“We’re coming up on four years since COVID upended our economy and must accelerate efforts to solve the worker shortage crisis.”

CBIA’s Chris DiPentima

“We’re coming up on four years since COVID upended our economy and must accelerate efforts to solve the worker shortage crisis, which remains the biggest threat to our economy. 

“Policymakers are considering numerous proposals addressing the factors driving the worker shortage and it’s critical they seize this opportunity to implement meaningful, sustainable solutions.

“However, we’re concerned that some are choosing this moment to pursue additional, costly workplace mandates that are particularly harmful to small businesses, the heart of our economy.

“Connecticut has one of the lowest quits and separation rates in the country, highlighting how effectively our employers responded to the pandemic to meet and address the changing needs of employees.

“We need solutions that address the high costs of living and running a business here, that expand career pathways and support small businesses—not policies that will only drive employers away.”

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CBIA is Connecticut’s largest business organization, with thousands of member companies, small and large, representing a diverse range of industries from every part of the state. For more information, please contact Scott Beaulieu (860.244.1929).