WORK: Story behind the numbers

We’ve all noticed the “Help Wanted” or “We’re Hiring” signs posted at most local businesses. There was a recent Letter to the Editor that expressed frustration with those in the community who might be unwilling to go back to work due to the increased unemployment insurance payments.

In Idaho, when you are temporarily unemployed, your employer confirms that your work hours have been reduced. This is especially applicable to individuals who couldn’t work during the shutdowns in the spring of 2020. The other part of that equation is that you cannot refuse to go back to work when your employer offers you work, otherwise you are disqualified from continuing to receive benefits.

For the week ending June 12, the Idaho Department of Labor statistics for Kootenai County reported 73 initial claims for unemployment benefits and 49 continuing claims. This is reflective of the requirement to accept work if offered.

As of June 21, The Idaho Works Job Seeker site listed 5,049 open job listings within 50 miles of Coeur d’Alene. Those on unemployment couldn’t possibly fill every position.

The same letter that admonished the so-called “languishing lazies” mentioned the increasing cost of housing and high rent costs.

It isn’t that people are sitting at home unwilling to work, it’s that many of the individuals who might work in the positions that are now unfilled have made the smart decision to move somewhere else that is more affordable.

JAMES CASPER

Executive Director

Habitat for Humanity of North Idaho, Inc.