News
Update: A new tool to help Kentuckians understand benefits cliffs
As the costs of basic needs have skyrocketed during this period of rapid inflation, it is worth revisiting the impact of cliff effects on workers in low-wage jobs. The Kentucky Center for Statistics has revamped its Family Resource Simulator, making it easier to use and ensuring it will stay updated and relevant in a changing economy.
Data is a Four Letter Word
Setting goals for quality and equity are important, but benchmarking and measuring progress is just as crucial. The data will tell the story over time.
The importance of immigrants to the region's labor force
Given the current demand for workers, it is worth highlighting the importance of immigrants to the labor supply within the Louisville region.
What updated occupation data shows for the Louisville region
The latest occupation data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that some of the region’s most common occupations do not provide a living wage. Compared to other metro areas, Louisville has lower overall wages, even after adjusting for the cost of living.
The role of child care in the labor force participation rate among women
Research shows that mothers of young children accounted for nearly a quarter of the unanticipated employment loss related to COVID-19. Access to affordable, reliable child care was a challenge before the pandemic, and has only gotten worse since. The low-wage-work/high-cost-service conundrum of the child care sector has led the Treasury Department to deem the industry a market failure. This implies a need for public sector support, and given the impact to businesses in need of a labor supply, also suggests a role for employers to step in.