Pennsylvania s nonfarm jobs have surged past pre-pandemic levels, and a new report called it a full recovery for the state s labor market. The report, from the Pennsylvania Workforce Development Association, said the state has added 1.2 million positions in less than four years. Rebecca O Shea, director of workforce initiatives for the association, said the numbers reveal strength in the fields of trade, transportation and utilities. .
Efforts to close ambulance service gaps in Minnesota are taking shape. A special legislative task force is gathering findings about the severity of the issue and holds its next meeting this Wednesday. Late last week, the Emergency Medical Services Task Force had its first meeting, which highlighted findings from state auditors. .
Arkansas is set to reduce income tax rates for individuals and corporations starting next year. Opportunity Arkansas is advocating for the elimination of the state income tax altogether. Nicholas Horton, founder and CEO of the group, said the new top tax rate of 4.4% still penalizes people for earning more money. .
The low-income advocacy group Alabama Arise recently unveiled a three-part strategy to improve Alabama’s workforce participation rate, which at 57%, remains among the lowest in the country.
Alabama Arise, a statewide advocacy group, is fighting for marginalized communities affected by poverty. The organization recently unveiled its 2024 policy priorities, highlighting the importance of expanding Medicaid and ending the state sales tax on groceries to improve residents overall well-being. Robyn Hyden, executive director of the group, believes addressing the issues will create lasting effects on communities and improve communication with legislators. .