Federal Labor Secretary Thomas Perez joined U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal of Connecticut, local workers and politicians in Hartford today to discuss a minimum wage increase. The current federal minimum wage is $7.25. In Connecticut the wage is higher at $8.70 an hour, and is set to increase to $9.00 next year.
The projected surplus for the state budget has slipped just slightly, according to the latest forecast from the Governor's office. In a letter to state Comptroller Kevin Lembo, budget chief Ben Barnes says he now estimates the surplus at $504 million down from a previous projection of $506 million.
Program Helping Only a Few Jobless Veterans
A program to help jobless veterans has found employment for only a fraction of eligible Connecticut workers since its launch two years ago. The state Department of Labor reports just 18 unemployed veterans were hired before the program expanded to include all honorably discharged veterans.
American Academy of Pediatrics Warns Parents About In-Store Clinics
A report from the American Academy of Pediatrics is warning parents to avoid retail clinics in stores like CVS and Walgreens. The AAP is advising parents to use a regular pediatrician as often as possible and if a retail clinic is being used it should be one that is connected with the child's doctor or health care center.
Sikorsky Layoffs
Sikorsky Aircraft officials announced on Friday that the company will lay off 600 workers. This affects salaried and hourly workers. A spokesman said the cuts were necessary to protect the company's competitiveness and future.