Why should I be interested in educating myself about labor exchange services?

• As employers pay into the unemployment system, they should understand how it works so they can minimize their costs.

• As employers pay for services in the labor exchange program, they should realize that listing with the DOL could save them dollars! Remind the employer that if they choose classified advertising they can be overwhelmed with responses. But with the DOL we can provide only as many referrals as they choose to interview thus causing the process to be less cumbersome on the employer.

• By attending a JSEC meeting the employer can gain a great deal of DOL information in a very short period of time - employers can pick and choose from any array of subject matter which they could benefit from such as current DOL legislation, labor market information, tax incentives, hiring practices, preparing for UI hearings and or appeals.

• Training Activities - Employer input is necessary in order to meet local community needs.

• Employment Services - Basic labor exchange participation is becoming increasingly important especially with staff of the Department to telephone claim centers and what we do best - labor exchange services. After all employers pay for these services and if they are to receive their moneys worth, their input and support in improving the system is vital.

• Unemployment Insurance Activities - Employers should be kept apprised of pending UI legislation, UI reform, to document and prepare for UI hearings and appeals. Employers understanding the law can assist them in perhaps avoiding unnecessary fines, or preparing them in a uniformed way for an unemployment insurance hearing.

Employers can provide a valuable perspective about services being offered at CSC's. They can evaluate and provide feedback on how effectively the DOL is providing services and identify those services that are lacking or are in need of emphasis.

As mandated changes occur that allow a degree of flexibility, it is vital to understand the employers viewpoint. By doing so, it can lessen duplication of effort, increase efficiency of tax dollars spent and reduce overall impact on employers.

Committee Suggested Changes - The DOL is very much aware of the taxes employers pay for services rendered by the DOL and the value to the point of provided by the employer.Therefore, at the local, state, and regional level suggestions by JSECs are explored and considered.

• Employer Suggested Proposed Legislation - JSECs do have a voice to be reckoned with, and government listens to that voice.

• Proposed Agency Legislation - Often the DOL will propose legislation to address specific concerns. Without employer input the concern may be identified and a singular point of view may be proposed, which may or may not match the needs or desires of the employer community. JSEC provides the DOL with what they want or do not want from the DOL.

• Participation in Agency Evaluations - Employers input adds a very valuable perspective. Input can affect positive and prompt change when necessary.