Berkley on Nevada jobless numbers: “I am doing everything in my power”

Following the report that Nevada's unemployment rate increased to 14 percent in May, Rep. Shelly Berkley put out the following statement:

“I know how hard it is for Nevadans struggling in this economy, especially those who remain without jobs, and I am doing everything in my power to make it better. These new unemployment figures are the reason I continue fighting for programs that promote hiring and give small businesses the help they need to grow.

“With the jobless rate in the Silver State now at 14%, we desperately need an extension of unemployment benefits for our neighbors who remain without work and who count on these checks for food and rent.

“In Congress, I am working every day to pass critical legislation that gives businesses incentives to put workers back on the job and that puts money back in the pockets of Nevada families through tax relief. My package extends the ability for Nevadans to save through the sales tax deduction, child care credit, property tax deduction and the college tuition credit and helps restore the flow of credit so that small businesses can expand and hire new workers.

“Nevada must also continue to tap our clean energy potential -- which is already creating new business opportunities and jobs in harnessing solar, geothermal and wind to power our economy. I also support more funding for retrofitting homes and offices in Las Vegas and across Nevada as a means to increase energy efficiency, put workers back on the job and reduce power bills.

“The economic challenges we face in Nevada are great, and when mom or dad is unemployed, families have a hard time just making ends meet. I hope that we can come together and pass an extension of unemployment assistance to help those who are struggling, while also providing tax savings to Nevada families and incentives for small businesses to create jobs.”