CBIA Response to May 2022 Employment Report

The state’s largest business organization issued the following response to today’s release of the May 2022 employment report.

“Connecticut’s year to date job growth is 0.8% which is half that of the national rate and the lowest in New England,” said Chris DiPentima, president and CEO of CBIA. 

“Connecticut residents are more concerned than ever about the state’s economy. We need to hear solutions from candidates on the campaign trail that will address the state’s labor shortage and help business owners who are already struggling with the cost of inflation. 

“It is discouraging to see the construction sector lose 1,300 jobs and manufacturing lose 200 positions. These sectors are critical to driving economic growth in Connecticut. 

“The state’s unemployment rate is 4.2% and remains one of the highest in the region. However, even if every unemployed person found a job, we would still have 31,300 left to fill. 

“CBIA urges lawmakers to focus on attracting and keeping skilled workers by making it easier to obtain occupational licenses in Connecticut, exploring ways to become a more immigrant-friendly state, and keeping college students here following graduation.”

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 Ali Warshavsky (860.244.1929).