Congressman Cole Praises New Oklahoma Job Numbers

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Tom Cole today lauded the news that the unemployment rate in Oklahoma fell to 3.8 percent in August. This is the first time that the statewide rate has dropped below 4.0 percent since October 2001.

"This is very exciting news for workers in Oklahoma. Businesses are hiring and people are finding good jobs," Congressman Cole said. "I believe the tax packages of 2001 and 2003 have helped restore confidence in the market and have given businesses incentives to hire more workers."

"Yesterday the House passed another comprehensive tax relief package that will continue to ease tax obligations on America's families and businesses. I believe that continued growth depends on further tax relief for all Americans," Congressman Cole said.

Since January, the number of unemployed Oklahomans has declined by nearly 18,000. According to the Oklahoma Employment Security Commission, Oklahoma has added 1,100 non-farm jobs in August.

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