When I was studying such things, there was a phenomenon known as "frictional unemployment". This term described people who were voluntarily "between jobs". I believe that used to be figured at 3%, and was a constant in unemployment figures. It appears this has been expanded to include such people as recent college graduates who are voluntarily not employed while awaiting an opportunity in the field of their choice. I am not sure how this adds to the discussion, but thought I would throw it in.

I have also noticed the arrival of a new phrase among recent graduates, "I am working as". As in "I have a degree in Marketing but I am working as a house painter".

The "unemployment rate" that gets reported in the media provides only a very rough sketch of the actual labor trends of a state. Using the unemployment number alone to evaluate the economic health or unhealth of a state is grossly irresponsible (looking at you, Chafee, GA, and media enablers). Over a long enough recession or period of economic hardship, the unemployment rate will almost inevitably fall simply because of the way it is calculated and who is excluded over time.

A much better way of evaluating the issue, as you point out, is looking at the trends in the job force versus how many "eligible" workers there are in the state. A state could have a 4% unemployment rate with half of its healthy, eligible workforce sitting on welfare or disability (or running a progressive blog), not looking for gainful employment. I don't think even the most deluded defender of the status quo would consider that a healthy situation.

Just had to throw this one in. This morning I looked at a small multi-family (3 units) near Angell Sq. The price was $220,000 and the tax bll is $12,000. I suppose this could be "made to work" for a live in owner, but what a tax burden. I have always assumed that the East Side carries the city, but 6-7% of the value annually?

"nuff" said........Same as it ever was....

news.providencejournal.com/breaking-news/2013/03/ris-unemployment-rate-for-2012-one-of-highest-in-the-nation-ready.html

Does anyone know how much income tax revenue the state brought in last year then fiscal year 07 when there were more jobs?