Statement from Congressman Fitzpatrick on July Unemployment Report

LANGHORNE, Pa –  Congressman Mike Fitzpatrick (PA-08) issued the following statement on the Department of Labor’s announcement that the national unemployment rate for July increased to 8.3% from 8.2% in June:

"With an unemployment rate stuck above 8%, July 2012 marks yet another month of the worst economic recovery since the Great Depression.  At this point after the previous five recessions, economic growth averaged 4.4%, or double the current rate of our recovery.   We are faced with an economy which desperately wants to recover, but is restrained by uncertainty from Washington and the failure of a Senate which refuses to act, and a President who fails to lead.  During my meetings with 100 Businesses in 100 Days, I have heard from local businesses struggling under the weight of a complicated tax code, ineffective and onerous regulations, and rising healthcare costs.   I will continue to pursue pro-growth economic policies which address these concerns, reward innovation, encourage investment and create good, family-sustaining jobs."