Columbus, OH – Rea S. Hederman Jr., executive director of the Economic Research Center and vice president of policy at The Buckeye Institute, commented on the newly released jobs report from the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services.

“Ohio’s unemployment rate held steady in September at 4.5 percent, and at the same time, the labor force participation rate ticked up to 62.4 percent, indicating that more people are looking for work. This is in comparison to the national unemployment rate, which declined to 4.1 percent, and the national labor force participation rate of 62.7 percent, both stronger than Ohio’s measures.

“September’s report contained good news, with 9,500 new private-sector jobs erasing August’s job loss. Although private-sector job growth has continued throughout 2024, growth remains slow, with some down months slowing the overall upward trend. 

“There is reason for policymakers to be cautious. Ohio’s fiscal picture is not as rosy as it was two years ago, with slower economic growth reducing tax surpluses. Lawmakers must prepare for a tighter biennial budget and focus on protecting taxpayers and adopting policies that will attract employers and grow Ohio’s economy.”

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