Jobs report raises public policy questions.
Economists predicted that about one million jobs would be added to the economy in April. But only 266,000 jobs were added.
The April report arrives as companies post help wanted signs and report they can’t find workers to hire.
The Biden Administration’s federal relief package is one reason for the labor shortages, business owners point out. The package included a $300 weekly jobless bonus.
The generous federal unemployment bonus is on top of regular state benefits — so today the national average unemployment recipient receives more in benefits than working full time at $15 an hour.
There are plenty of available jobs – 7.4 million – but where are the willing workers?