The RI Department of Labor and Training announced today that the total non-farm employment in the state has reached an historic high this month with 496,300 Rhode Island-based jobs. This is the fifth time in the past seven months that Rhode Island has broken its own employment record.

On a related note, RI resident employment-the number of Rhode Islanders working anywhere in the country-also achieved a near-record high (553,700) in March.

Non-farm jobs include all workers employed at private businesses, religious organizations ( i.e. churches and schools) and in the public sector. Student workers-those employed at a college or university in which they are enrolled-and those working solely on commission (i.e. insurance, real estate) are also included.

Excluded are the self-employed, agricultural workers and private household employment (domestic help).

The Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training offers a wide array of employment and training services to both the general public and to individuals with unusual barriers to employment. DLT is ready to assist any job seeker, whether the goal is a first job, a better job, or a career change. Rhode Island's workforce is protected through the enforcement of labor laws, prevailing wage rates, and workplace health and safety standards. Temporary income support is available to unemployed, sick, or injured workers and a comprehensive rehabilitation program is available to those injured on the job.

DLT is dedicated to the growth and competitiveness of Rhode Island industry, administering a variety of training grants, tax credits, and apprenticeship programs to help employers. Economic indicators and labor market information are available for long-range planning. The Agency engages in active outreach, helping large and small employers retain their best workers or retrain their existing work force. At no cost to the employer, DLT will also screen job applicants, post job vacancies, and help businesses institute cost-sharing programs that can avert layoffs.

For more information on the innovative programs and services available to all Rhode Islanders at the Department of Labor and Training, please call (401) 462-8000 or visit the web site at www.dlt.ri.gov

Equal Opportunity Employer/Program
Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities.
TDD (401) 462-8006