Nixon: I want every Missourian who wants a job to have one

(From Gov. Jay Nixon)

As our state and nation enjoy the long holiday weekend, it’s important to remember that Labor Day is about more than parades, barbeques and a symbolic end to the summer. It’s about honoring our dedicated workforce – the hardworking Missourians who are moving our economy forward and providing for their families.

To weather these challenging economic times, many Missourians have had to do more to make ends meet. Taking on longer hours or maybe a second job. Or going back to school to learn new skills. Doing whatever it takes. It’s those workers we honor today.

I firmly believe that there’s nothing more rewarding than a hard day’s work – and I want every Missourian who wants a job to have one. That’s why my top priority as Governor has been helping Missouri’s businesses create new jobs – and making sure Missouri workers have the skills needed to compete for those jobs.

And on that front, we’re seeing steady progress. Unemployment is at a two-year low, we’ve seen a growth of $1 billion in Missouri-made exports and three national organizations have recently ranked Missouri one of the 10 top states to do business. Just a couple weeks ago, our state’s perfect AAA credit rating was reaffirmed.

But there’s much more work to do.

That’s why I’ve called our legislature back into a special session to pass the “Made in Missouri” job-creation package. This comprehensive plan would create thousands of jobs and make Missouri companies more competitive in a global economy. It would increase our investments in science and technology, while also reforming our tax credit system to ensure our continued fiscal responsibility.

This plan already has strong bi-partisan support in the legislature and is supported by leaders in the business community and in organized labor. We’re going to work hard to get it done.

As you celebrate this Labor Day holiday, I encourage you to thank someone who has gone the extra mile this past year to provide for their family. Working people built our state and nation. And they remain our state’s most valuable asset.

Enjoy a safe and healthy holiday weekend.