Daily Reads Express: 2/10/2010

1. Sick at Work

From: Economix blog on NY Times

   Paid sick leave: a smaller piece of reform that could make a big difference. 

2. Rich people still have jobs, poor people don't

From: Time: The Curious Capitalist

The distribution of the unemployment rate across income levels: 

Range of incomes (by decile)Unemployment rate$12,160 or less--30.8%
$12,160-$20,725--19.1%
$20,725-$29,680--19.7%
$29,680-$39,000--12.2%
$39,000-$50,000--9.0%
$50,000-$63,000--7.8%
$63,000-$79,100--6.4%
$79,100-$100,500--5.0%
$100,150-$138,700--8.0%
$138,700+--3.2%


3.  How a New Jobless Era Will Transform America

From: The Atlantic: Don Peck

     The Great Recession may be over, but this era of high joblessness is probably just beginning. Before it  ends, it will likely change the life course and character of a generation of young adults. It will leave an indelible imprint on many blue-collar men. It could cripple marriage as an institution in many communities. It may already be plunging many inner cities into a despair not seen for decades. Ultimately, it is likely to warp our politics, our culture, and the character of our society for years to come.

4. Message: Focused On Jobs

It's the actual jobs that matter, not the trying to look like you're doing something on jobs.

Realities of Congress, blah blah blah, but occasionally it'd be nice if that charismatic guy in the White House would try to move public opinion.

 Enough Said.

5.  Funniest Thing: Wal-Mart Cuts Over 13,000 Of What It Calls Jobs

From: The Onion

     This is quickly becoming one of my favorite sites.