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Office of Advocacy Appoints Steve Owen as Region 9 Advocate
WASHINGTON, April 30 -- The Small Business Administration's Office of Advocacy issued the following news release:
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Office of Advocacy Appoints Steve Owen as Region 9 Advocate
The Office of Advocacy (Advocacy), the independent voice for small businesses within the executive branch, is pleased to announce Steve Owen has been named Region 9 Advocate. As the Region 9 Advocate, a role that has been vacant since 2021, Owen serves as the voice in Washington, D.C. for over 5 million small businesses in Arizona, California, Hawaii, Nevada, and the U.S. Pacific Territories.
Born and raised in California,
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WASHINGTON, April 30 -- The Small Business Administration's Office of Advocacy issued the following news release:
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Office of Advocacy Appoints Steve Owen as Region 9 Advocate
The Office of Advocacy (Advocacy), the independent voice for small businesses within the executive branch, is pleased to announce Steve Owen has been named Region 9 Advocate. As the Region 9 Advocate, a role that has been vacant since 2021, Owen serves as the voice in Washington, D.C. for over 5 million small businesses in Arizona, California, Hawaii, Nevada, and the U.S. Pacific Territories.
Born and raised in California,Owen is a first-generation American. As Region 9 Advocate, Owen brings with him a broad range of experience to this position. His professional background includes extensive experience working with tech startups and senior management roles with KPMG and Apple. Owen's goal is to let "business do business" without being bogged down by unnecessary bureaucracy.
"I am thrilled to welcome Steve Owen as the Region 9 Advocate for the Office of Advocacy," said Everett Woodel, Jr., Acting Chief Counsel for Advocacy. "Steve's background makes him well-suited for this role as he assists small businesses in the deregulatory process."
"Drawing on my experience as an economist and my work with both startups and global companies, I am committed to identifying and addressing excessive, burdensome regulations," said Owen. "My goal is to ensure that common-sense wins, and that small businesses in my region and throughout the country can focus on what they do best: innovating, creating jobs, and driving growth in communities nationwide."
Owen can be reached at stephen.owen@sba.gov.
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Created by Congress in 1976, the Office of Advocacy of the U.S. Small Business Administration is an independent voice for small business within the executive branch. Appointed by the President and confirmed by the U.S. Senate, the Chief Counsel for Advocacy directs the office. The Chief Counsel advances the views, concerns, and interests of small business before Congress, the White House, federal agencies, federal courts, and state policymakers. Economic research, policy analyses, and small business outreach help identify issues of concern. Regional Advocates and an office in Washington, DC, support the Chief Counsel's efforts. For more information on the Office of Advocacy, visit advocacy.sba.gov or call (202) 205-6533.
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Original text here: https://advocacy.sba.gov/2026/04/29/office-of-advocacy-appoints-steve-owen-as-region-9-advocate/
Office of Advocacy Appoints Apollo Fuhriman as Region 10 Advocate
WASHINGTON, April 30 -- The Small Business Administration's Office of Advocacy issued the following news release:
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Office of Advocacy Appoints Apollo Fuhriman as Region 10 Advocate
The Office of Advocacy (Advocacy), the independent voice for small businesses within the executive branch, is pleased to announce Apollo Fuhriman has been named Region 10 Advocate. Fuhriman, who served in this role during the first Trump Administration, will once again work to slash unnecessary federal regulations affecting small businesses in Washington, Idaho, Oregon, and Alaska.
In addition to his work with
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WASHINGTON, April 30 -- The Small Business Administration's Office of Advocacy issued the following news release:
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Office of Advocacy Appoints Apollo Fuhriman as Region 10 Advocate
The Office of Advocacy (Advocacy), the independent voice for small businesses within the executive branch, is pleased to announce Apollo Fuhriman has been named Region 10 Advocate. Fuhriman, who served in this role during the first Trump Administration, will once again work to slash unnecessary federal regulations affecting small businesses in Washington, Idaho, Oregon, and Alaska.
In addition to his work withAdvocacy, Fuhriman most recently served as Regional Administrator for the U.S. Small Business Administration's Pacific Northwest Regional Office. He has held roles in both the public and private sectors, including at Microsoft, the U.S. Department of Commerce, professional baseball with the San Francisco Giants, and clerking at the U.S. Attorney's Office in Seattle.
"It is wonderful to welcome Apollo back to the Office of Advocacy at the Region 10 Advocate," said Everett Woodel, Jr., Acting Chief Counsel for Advocacy. "Apollo was an outstanding advocate during the Trump 45 Administration, and I have no doubt he will once again be an effective voice for small businesses."
"I am thrilled to return to Advocacy and advance its mission of helping to provide small businesses much-needed regulatory relief," said Fuhriman. "I look forward to connecting with small businesses throughout my region and nationwide."
Fuhriman can be reached at apollo.fuhriman@sba.gov.
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Created by Congress in 1976, the Office of Advocacy of the U.S. Small Business Administration is an independent voice for small business within the executive branch. Appointed by the President and confirmed by the U.S. Senate, the Chief Counsel for Advocacy directs the office. The Chief Counsel advances the views, concerns, and interests of small business before Congress, the White House, federal agencies, federal courts, and state policymakers. Economic research, policy analyses, and small business outreach help identify issues of concern. Regional Advocates and an office in Washington, DC, support the Chief Counsel's efforts. For more information on the Office of Advocacy, visit advocacy.sba.gov or call (202) 205-6533.
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Original text here: https://advocacy.sba.gov/2026/04/29/office-of-advocacy-appoints-apollo-fuhriman-as-region-10-advocate/
NOAA Fisheries Certifies Two State Recreational Fishing Surveys to Improve Catch Estimates
WASHINGTON, April 30 (TNSrep) -- The U.S. Department of Commerce National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration issued the following news:
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NOAA Fisheries Certifies Two State Recreational Fishing Surveys to Improve Catch Estimates
Alabama and Mississippi creel surveys certified as valid sources of data to inform recreational fishery management.
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NOAA Fisheries has certified Alabama's and Mississippi's creel surveys (https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/recreational-fishing-data/transitioning-new-recreational-fishing-survey-designs#certification) as part of a move to advance federal-state
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WASHINGTON, April 30 (TNSrep) -- The U.S. Department of Commerce National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration issued the following news:
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NOAA Fisheries Certifies Two State Recreational Fishing Surveys to Improve Catch Estimates
Alabama and Mississippi creel surveys certified as valid sources of data to inform recreational fishery management.
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NOAA Fisheries has certified Alabama's and Mississippi's creel surveys (https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/recreational-fishing-data/transitioning-new-recreational-fishing-survey-designs#certification) as part of a move to advance federal-statepartnerships for recreational fisheries management strategies. These surveys aim to produce more timely and precise estimates of state-specific recreational fishing catch and trip activity. This certification marks a significant milestone in the initiatives NOAA is undertaking to improve recreational fishing data.
Certification means AL Creel and MS Creel were found to be statistically valid approaches to provide key recreational fishing statistics. Both surveys are now eligible to receive NOAA Fisheries' funding as it becomes available.
"This certification is a testament to the hard work of our data collection partners in Alabama and Mississippi and the close coordination of our teams throughout the process," said Dr. Katherine Papacostas, director, NOAA Fisheries Office of Science and Technology, Recreational Fisheries Statistics - Program Management Branch. "Certification is a core component of meeting NOAA Fisheries' national recreational fishing survey and data standards, and we were pleased to provide technical support to help our partners achieve this rigorous benchmark."
We worked closely with both states to coordinate the independent peer review of these surveys. Both surveys--modeled after Louisiana's LA Creel Survey, which is also NOAA certified--received favorable reviews for certification with recommendations for continued improvement. Both designs use shore-based in-person surveys to estimate recreational catch and off-site telephone surveys of licensed anglers to estimate fishing effort.
"The certification of the Mississippi Creel and Alabama Creel surveys represents a collaborative achievement between the state agencies, Gulf States Marine Fisheries Commission, and federal partners to produce timely, statistically rigorous, and multi-species recreational catch estimates that enhance regional consistency across the Gulf and provide data necessary for more accurate stock assessments and sound fisheries management," said Trevor Moncrief, director of marine fisheries, Mississippi Department of Marine Resources. "We at the Mississippi Department of Marine Resources are incredibly grateful for the partnership of our neighboring states, especially the guidance received by Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries staff, and the efficiency at which this effort was able to be completed by our colleagues at NOAA Fisheries."
Gulf of America Recreational Fishing Data Transition Process
The peer review notes that making these state survey designs similar to LA Creel "should facilitate direct comparisons between state fisheries that are targeting similar stocks and can lead to synergies in developing future methodological improvements."
Improving and implementing new data collection systems that result in comparable estimates is a central component of the ongoing, collaborative Gulf of America recreational fishing data transition process. The goal of this process is to effectively incorporate Gulf state survey data into regional recreational catch and effort estimates. This will provide a consistent historical time series of data for the Gulf--leading to more informed sustainable fisheries management.
While NOAA Fisheries' certification validates the scientific integrity of a survey, there is more work to be done for the data to be used to inform decision making.
For example, the current Annual Catch Limits for establishing the private recreational red snapper season in both states were established using historical data from previous survey methods. The states and NOAA Fisheries will work together to place the new survey data and the historical data into a consistent scale for assessments and management. This includes rescaling the new catch estimates to align with existing Annual Catch Limits.
"We are excited that AL Creel has received federal certification from NOAA Fisheries," said Chris Blankenship, commissioner of the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. "Transitioning to the AL Creel survey will allow our fishery managers to provide more accurate recreational fishing estimates that will aid in the development of timely management strategies specific to Alabama. This will benefit both our anglers and Alabama's marine resources."
NOAA Fisheries will work with state and regional partners to facilitate the effective transition to the new survey designs and the integration of the resulting survey data into stock assessment and management processes.
Recreational Angler Partnership Improvement Directive
"The successful certification of these state surveys through federal and regional coordination is a prime example of what we are intending to achieve as part of the Recreational Angler Partnership Improvement Directive," said Tim Sartwell, NOAA special advisor for recreational fisheries and lead for the directive.
The directive, announced in early 2026, is a transformational stage toward a new state-federal partnership model for recreational fisheries data collection. Additionally, RAPID is a highlighted interim commitment we are taking to advance the updated National Saltwater Recreational Fisheries Policy prior to the 2027 National Saltwater Recreational Fisheries Summit. The national policy guides our approach to recreational fisheries and affirms our commitment to sustainable and accessible recreational fisheries for the benefit of the nation.
"Through RAPID, our goal is to modernize the recreational data collection enterprise by increasing data collection capabilities and strengthening state data streams and regional partnerships--ultimately leading to improved data precision, accessibility, and trust," said Sartwell.
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Original text here: https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/feature-story/noaa-fisheries-certifies-two-state-recreational-fishing-surveys-improve-catch
FBI and U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Massachusetts Release Findings on Brown University and Brookline Shootings
WASHINGTON, April 30 -- The FBI issued the following news release:
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FBI and U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Massachusetts Release Findings on Brown University and Brookline Shootings
The Boston Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Massachusetts have concluded a significant portion of the investigation into the mass shooting at Brown University that took place on December 13, 2025, in Providence, Rhode Island, and the murder of Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Professor Dr. Nuno Loureiro on December
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WASHINGTON, April 30 -- The FBI issued the following news release:
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FBI and U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Massachusetts Release Findings on Brown University and Brookline Shootings
The Boston Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Massachusetts have concluded a significant portion of the investigation into the mass shooting at Brown University that took place on December 13, 2025, in Providence, Rhode Island, and the murder of Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Professor Dr. Nuno Loureiro on December15, 2025, in Brookline, Massachusetts.
The FBI and U.S. Attorney's Office received valuable assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; the Providence Police Department; the Rhode Island State Police; the Brookline Police Department; the Massachusetts State Police; the Rhode Island Attorney General's Office; the Norfolk County District Attorney's Office; and the U.S. Attorney's Offices for the Districts of Rhode Island and New Hampshire.
The FBI has worked closely with its law enforcement partners across the United States and around the world on a coordinated and comprehensive investigation. After recovering more than 112 pieces of evidence, running down more than 490 leads, combing through more than 11,000 files of surveillance footage, analyzing 815 videos and 1,327 audio files found on the shooter's electronic devices, and conducting more than 260 interviews, the investigative team has reached the following conclusions.
The investigation found that Claudio Manuel Neves Valente, a Portuguese national and a legal permanent resident living in Miami, Florida, acting alone, committed the mass shooting at Brown University and the murder of Dr. Loureiro. His actions were determined to have no nexus to terrorism.
Neves Valente was born in Torres Novas, Santarem, Portugal, and was 48 years old. He arrived in the United States in August 2000 on a student visa at Brown University after completing a physics program at Instituto Superior Tecnico in Portugal. That fall, Neves Valente enrolled in a doctoral program at Brown University but subsequently withdrew in May 2001 and left the United States. In 2017, Neves Valente obtained lawful permanent residency while living in Miami, Florida, and briefly worked as a rideshare driver. At the time of the shootings, Neves Valente was unemployed and had no criminal record or prior documented contacts with law enforcement.
The two 9mm pistols recovered by the FBI's Evidence Response Team in Salem, New Hampshire, with the body of Neves Valente were legally purchased by him from a pawn shop in Florida. The first firearm, a Glock 34 9mm, was purchased on July 19, 2020, and was used in the Brown University shooting. The second, a Glock 26 9mm, purchased on March 22, 2022, is positively correlated with the murder of Dr. Loureiro.
Following the shootings, Neves Valente made a series of audio files and short videos in which he confessed to committing these crimes, showed no remorse, and provided no reason for his actions.
Neves Valente stated he began planning the attack at Brown University in 2022, which is when he acquired the storage unit in Salem, New Hampshire, and transported his firearms to that location.
The investigative team took diligent steps to determine the reason or reasons why Neves Valente decided to commit these shootings. The FBI's Behavioral Analysis Unit (BAU), based in Quantico, Virginia, further assisted the local investigative team in answering these questions.
Based on analysis of the information and evidence gathered throughout the investigation, the FBI assesses Neves Valente's victims were symbolic in nature. Brown University as a whole and Dr. Loureiro represented to the shooter his personal failures and injustices he perceived were inflicted by others over time. By attacking them, Neves Valente was likely able to overcome his shame and envy by using violence to punish those communities that he perceived contributed to his downfall.
The FBI has determined that Neves Valente was committed to conducting the attack and had completed his planning. He considered, planned, and prepared for the mass shooting at Brown University in increments over a period of several years in isolation, spanning multiple geographic locations. Neves Valente's transient lifestyle, long-term planning, and social isolation provided little to no opportunity for bystanders to observe and contextualize the significance of his behaviors. The shooter lacked traditional support, such as family, peers, and authority figures, who would have been able to observe any potential warning signs and contact law enforcement.
Additionally, the FBI assesses Neves Valente was driven by an accumulation of grievances that he collected throughout his life. He appeared to struggle with how he viewed his life achievements and felt he was considerably marginalized by others. The shooter's inflated sense of self contributed to interpersonal conflicts in his life and led him to believe he was being treated unjustly, preventing him from reaching his perceived full potential.
The FBI believes the shooter experienced a failure to thrive, long-standing suicidality, and his current situation was incongruent to where he felt he should be at this stage in his life. As his failures outweighed successes, his paranoia increased, compounding his continued inability to thrive, leading to him being mentally unwell and committed to dying. However, mental health stressors alone cannot fully explain the attacks that occurred.
It is important to note that only Neves Valente knew the real reason why he committed these heinous acts. However, at this time, the FBI is confident, based on the evidence collected, the shooter's own writings and recordings, and interviews with those who knew him best, that the above assessment is accurate.
Based on the evidence seized and analyzed to date, investigators continue to believe there aren't any ongoing public safety threats associated with the shootings. This remains an ongoing investigation and no further information will be released at this time. Additional updates will be provided if new information is developed, following appropriate victim notification.
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Original text here: https://www.fbi.gov/news/press-releases
CFACC Visits Deployed Forces
SHAW AFB, South Carolina, April 30 -- The U.S. Air Forces Central, the air component of U.S. Central Command, issued the following news:
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CFACC visits deployed forces
U.S. CENTRAL COMMAND AREA OF RESPONSIBILITY -- U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Derek C. France, 9th Air Force (Air Forces Central) commander, and Chief Master Sgt. Joshua J. Wiener, AFCENT command chief, recently concluded a multi-day tour of AFCENT units across the CENTCOM AOR to assess force readiness and personally engage with the Airmen serving in the Arena.
The visit allowed the commander to get a firsthand look at the operational
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SHAW AFB, South Carolina, April 30 -- The U.S. Air Forces Central, the air component of U.S. Central Command, issued the following news:
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CFACC visits deployed forces
U.S. CENTRAL COMMAND AREA OF RESPONSIBILITY -- U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Derek C. France, 9th Air Force (Air Forces Central) commander, and Chief Master Sgt. Joshua J. Wiener, AFCENT command chief, recently concluded a multi-day tour of AFCENT units across the CENTCOM AOR to assess force readiness and personally engage with the Airmen serving in the Arena.
The visit allowed the commander to get a firsthand look at the operationalposture, day-to-day challenges, and thank Airmen for their focus and warrior spirit. During his engagements, Lt. Gen. France recognized the historic nature of the efforts being executed and acknowledged the personal sacrifices being made by Airmen and their families.
"I've had the privilege of looking these incredible Airmen in the eye and telling them how proud, yet humbled, I am to serve alongside them," France said. "Their unwavering fighting spirit and professionalism is inspiring. Their resilience under pressure is a testament to their training, their character, and their commitment to the mission and to each other."
Within AFCENT, President Theodore Roosevelt's 'Man in the Arena' passage is a leadership maxim, the themes of daring greatly and commitment to a worthy cause are tightly aligned into the vision and direction of the command.
"These Airmen are writing history at a time of consequence of the Arena," France said. "The deeds and duty of these Airmen, are creating important results and continue our heritage and legacy for others to follow."
The journey also spurred reflection on the ultimate sacrifices made by AFCENT Airmen. The general made it a point to address the loss of the crew of Zeus 95 which occurred on March 12th and resulted in the loss of six Airmen.
"We are a family, and we feel the loss of our fallen teammates to our core," France said. "The crew of Zeus 95 made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our nation. Their bravery, and the bravery of their families, will never be forgotten. Their memory continues to guide us and motivate our efforts. We will honor their memory by remaining steadfast in our mission."
Lt. Gen. France's visit reinforces AFCENT's commitment to its teammates and the collective security of the region. The command remains postured to meet security objectives and stands ready to respond when required.
"It is clear the opponent seeks to break the will of our Airmen and blunt the impact of airpower in this fight," France said. "Based on my interactions and candid conversations--our Airmen are unyielding. They remain focused, ready, and determined to meet this moment."
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Original text here: https://www.afcent.af.mil/News/Article/4471951/cfacc-visits-deployed-forces/
BLS Issues Report on Metropolitan Area Employment and Unemployment February 2026
WASHINGTON, April 30 (TNSLrpt) -- Metropolitan Area Employment and Unemployment February 2026 - A report from U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics - April 29, 2026 (24 pages)
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Unemployment rates were higher in February than a year earlier in 236 of the 387 metropolitan areas, lower in 110 areas, and unchanged in 41 areas, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported today. A total of 10 areas had jobless rates of less than 3.0 percent and 13 areas had rates of at least 8.0 percent. Nonfarm payroll employment increased over the year in 8 metropolitan areas, decreased in 7 areas,
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WASHINGTON, April 30 (TNSLrpt) -- Metropolitan Area Employment and Unemployment February 2026 - A report from U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics - April 29, 2026 (24 pages)
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Unemployment rates were higher in February than a year earlier in 236 of the 387 metropolitan areas, lower in 110 areas, and unchanged in 41 areas, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported today. A total of 10 areas had jobless rates of less than 3.0 percent and 13 areas had rates of at least 8.0 percent. Nonfarm payroll employment increased over the year in 8 metropolitan areas, decreased in 7 areas,and was essentially unchanged in 372 areas. The national unemployment rate in February was 4.7 percent, not seasonally adjusted, up from 4.5 percent a year earlier.
This news release presents statistics from two monthly programs. The civilian labor force and unemployment data are based on the same concepts and definitions as those used for the national household survey estimates. These data pertain to people by where they reside. The employment data are from an establishment survey that measures nonfarm employment, hours, and earnings by industry. These data pertain to jobs on payrolls defined by where the establishments are located. For more information about the concepts and statistical methodologies used by these two programs, see the Technical Note.
Metropolitan Area Unemployment (Not Seasonally Adjusted)
In February, Urban Honolulu, HI, had the lowest unemployment rate, 2.2 percent. The next lowest rates were in Burlington-South Burlington, VT; Kahului-Wailuku, HI; and Rapid City, SD, 2.5 percent each. El Centro, CA, had the highest rate, 17.6 percent. A total of 218 areas had February jobless rates below the U.S. rate of 4.7 percent, 155 areas had rates above it, and 14 areas had rates equal to that of the nation. (See table 1 and map 1.)
The largest over-the-year unemployment rate increase in February occurred in Wildwood-The Villages, FL (+2.5 percentage points). Forty-eight other areas had rate increases of at least 1.0 percentage point. Asheville, NC, had the largest over-the-year rate decrease in February (-2.4 percentage points). Eleven other areas had rate declines of at least 1.0 percentage point.
Of the 56 metropolitan areas with a 2020 Census population of 1 million or more, Urban Honolulu, HI, had the lowest jobless rate in February, 2.2 percent. Fresno, CA, had the highest rate, 9.1 percent. Thirty-nine large areas had over-the-year unemployment rate increases, 12 had decreases, and 5 had no change. The largest rate increases occurred in Hartford-West HartfordEast Hartford, CT (+1.5 percentage points), and Jacksonville, FL (+1.4 points). The largest jobless rate decline occurred in Columbus, OH (-0.8 percentage point), followed by Cincinnati, OH-KY-IN, and Grand Rapids-Wyoming-Kentwood, MI (-0.7 point each).
Metropolitan Division Unemployment (Not Seasonally Adjusted)
Thirteen of the most populous metropolitan areas are made up of 37 metropolitan divisions, which are essentially separately identifiable employment centers. In February, Miami-Miami Beach-Kendall, FL, had the lowest division unemployment rate, 2.8 percent. Detroit-DearbornLivonia, MI, had the highest rate among the divisions, 6.7 percent. (See table 2.)
In February, 29 metropolitan divisions had over-the-year unemployment rate increases, 5 had decreases, and 3 had no change. The largest increases occurred in Tacoma-Lakewood, WA; Tampa, FL; and West Palm Beach-Boca Raton-Delray Beach, FL (+1.4 percentage points each). Six other divisions had rate increases of at least 1.0 percentage point. The largest unemployment rate decline from February 2025 occurred in Lake County-Porter County-Jasper County, IN (-0.8 percentage point).
Metropolitan Area Nonfarm Employment (Not Seasonally Adjusted)
In February 2026, nonfarm payroll employment increased over the year in 8 metropolitan areas, decreased in 7 areas, and was essentially unchanged in 372 areas. The largest over-the-year employment increases occurred in San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA (+17,400), Fresno, CA (+8,900), and Stockton-Lodi, CA (+6,100). The largest over-the-year percentage gains in employment occurred in Barnstable Town, MA (+5.5 percent), Merced, CA (+3.9 percent), and Yuba City, CA (+3.8 percent). The largest over-the-year employment decreases occurred in Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV (-119,000), Portland-Vancouver-Hillsboro, OR-WA (-30,200), and Boston-Cambridge-Newton, MA-NH (-27,200). The largest over-theyear percentage decreases occurred in Yuma, AZ (-5.0 percent), Sierra Vista-Douglas, AZ (-4.6 percent), and Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV (-3.5 percent). (See table 3 and map 2.)
Over the year, nonfarm employment decreased in 3 metropolitan areas with a 2020 Census population of 1 million or more, increased in 2 areas, and was essentially unchanged in 51 areas. The over-the-year decreases in employment occurred in Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DCVA-MD-WV (-3.5 percent), Portland-Vancouver-Hillsboro, OR-WA (-2.4 percent), and BostonCambridge-Newton, MA-NH (-1.0 percent). Over the year, employment increased in Fresno, CA (+2.0 percent), and San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA (+1.5 percent).
Metropolitan Division Nonfarm Employment (Not Seasonally Adjusted)
In February, nonfarm payroll employment decreased over the year in 4 metropolitan divisions and was essentially unchanged in 33 divisions. The over-the-year decreases in employment occurred in Washington, DC-MD (-63,100, or -5.5 percent), New York-Jersey City-White Plains, NY-NJ (-58,300, or -0.9 percent), Arlington-Alexandria-Reston, VA-WV (-32,000, or -2.0 percent), and Frederick-Gaithersburg-Bethesda, MD (-23,900, or -3.9 percent). (See table 4.)
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The State Employment and Unemployment news release for March is scheduled to be released on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. (ET). The Metropolitan Area Employment and Unemployment news release for March is scheduled to be released on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. (ET).
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Technical Note
This news release presents civilian labor force and unemployment data from the Local Area Unemployment Statistics (LAUS) program (tables 1 and 2) for 387 metropolitan statistical areas, plus 6 areas in Puerto Rico. Estimates for 37 metropolitan divisions also are presented. Nonfarm payroll employment estimates from the Current Employment Statistics (CES) program (tables 3 and 4) are provided for the same areas. State estimates were previously published in the State Employment and Unemployment news release and are republished in this news release for ease of reference. The LAUS and CES programs are both federal-state cooperative endeavors.
Civilian labor force and unemployment--from the LAUS program
Definitions. The civilian labor force and unemployment data are based on the same concepts and definitions as those used for the official national estimates obtained from the Current Population Survey (CPS), a sample survey of households that is conducted for the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) by the U.S. Census Bureau. The LAUS program measures employed people and unemployed people on a placeof-residence basis. The universe for each is the civilian noninstitutional population 16 years of age and older. Employed people are those who did any work at all for pay or profit in the reference week (typically the week including the 12th of the month) or worked 15 hours or more without pay in a family business or farm, plus those not working who had a job from which they were temporarily absent, whether or not paid, for such reasons as labor-management dispute, illness, or vacation. Unemployed people are those who were not employed during the reference week (based on the definition above), had actively looked for a job sometime in the 4-week period ending with the reference week, and were currently available for work; people on layoff expecting recall need not be looking for work to be counted as unemployed. The civilian labor force is the sum of employed and unemployed people. The unemployment rate is the number of unemployed as a percent of the civilian labor force.
Method of estimation. Estimates for states, the District of Columbia, the Los Angeles-Long Beach-Glendale metropolitan division, and New York City are produced using time-series models with real-time benchmarking to national CPS totals. Model-based estimates are also produced for the following areas and their respective balances: the ChicagoNaperville-Schaumburg, IL Metropolitan Division; Cleveland, OH Metropolitan Statistical Area; Detroit-Warren-Dearborn, MI Metropolitan Statistical Area; Miami-Miami BeachKendall, FL Metropolitan Division; and Seattle-TacomaBellevue, WA Metropolitan Statistical Area. Modeling improves the statistical basis of the estimation for these areas and provides important tools for analysis, such as measures of errors and seasonally adjusted series. For all other substate areas in this news release, estimates are prepared through indirect estimation procedures using a building-block approach. Estimates of employed people, which are based largely on "place of work" estimates from the CES program, are adjusted to refer to place of residence as used in the CPS. Unemployment estimates are aggregates of people previously employed in industries covered by state Unemployment Insurance (UI) laws and entrants to the labor force from the CPS. The substate estimates of employment and unemployment, which geographically exhaust the entire state, are adjusted proportionally to ensure that they add to the independently estimated model-based area totals. A detailed description of the estimation procedures is available from BLS upon request.
Annual revisions. Civilian labor force and unemployment data shown for the prior year reflect adjustments made at the beginning of each year, usually implemented with the issuance of January estimates. The adjusted model-based estimates typically reflect updated population data from the U.S. Census Bureau, any revisions in other input data sources, and model re-estimation. All substate estimates then are reestimated using updated inputs and adjusted to add to the revised model-based totals. In early 2025, implementation of synthetic intercensal population estimates for states and the 2020-based delineations for federal statistical areas necessitated the replacement of substate estimates back to their series beginnings. For more information, see www.bls.gov/lau/geography-and-data-changes-in-2025.htm.
Employment--from the CES program
Definitions. Employment data refer to people on establishment payrolls who receive pay for any part of the pay period that includesthe 12th of the month. People are counted at their place of work rather than at their place of residence; those appearing on more than one payroll are counted on each payroll. Industries are classified on the basis of their principal activity in accordance with the 2022 version of the North American Industry Classification System.
Method of estimation. CES State and Area employment data are produced using several estimation procedures. Where possible, these data are produced using a "weighted link relative" estimation technique in which a ratio of current month weighted employment to that of the previous-month weighted employment is computed from a sample of establishments reporting for both months. The estimates of employment for the current month are then obtained by multiplying these ratios by the previous month's employment estimates. The weighted link relative technique is utilized for data series where the sample size meets certain statistical criteria. For some employment series, the estimates are produced with a model that uses direct sample estimates (described above) combined with other regressors to compensate for smaller sample sizes.
Annual revisions. Employment estimates are adjusted annually to a complete count of jobs, called benchmarks, derived principally from tax reports that are submitted by employers who are covered under state unemployment insurance (UI) laws. The benchmark information is used to adjust the monthly estimates between the new benchmark and the preceding one and also to establish the level of employment for the new benchmark month. Thus, the benchmarking process establishes the level of employment, and the sample is used to measure the month-to-month changes in the level for the subsequent months. Information on recent benchmark revisions is available online at www.bls.gov/web/laus/benchmark.pdf.
Seasonal adjustment. Payroll employment data are seasonally adjusted for states, metropolitan areas, and metropolitan divisions at the total nonfarm level. For states, data are seasonally adjusted at the supersector level as well. Revisions to historical data for the most recent 5 years are made once a year, coincident with annual benchmark adjustments.
Payroll employment data are seasonally adjusted concurrently, using all available estimates, including those for the current month, to develop sample-based seasonal factors. Concurrent sample-based factors are created every month for the current month's preliminary estimate as well as the previous month's final estimate.
Reliability of the estimates
The estimates presented in this news release are based on sample surveys, administrative data, and modeling and, thus, are subject to sampling and other types of errors. Sampling error is a measure of sampling variability--that is, variation that occurs by chance because a sample rather than the entire population is surveyed. Survey data also are subject to nonsampling errors, such as those which can be introduced into the data collection and processing operations. Estimates not directly derived from sample surveys are subject to additional errors resulting from the specific estimation processes used. The sums of individual items may not always equal the totals shown in the same tables because of rounding.
Use of error measures
Civilian labor force and unemployment estimates. Measures of sampling error are not available for metropolitan areas or metropolitan divisions. Model-based error measures for states are available on the BLS website at www.bls.gov/lau/lastderr.htm. Measures of nonsampling error are not available for the areas contained in this news release.
Employment estimates. Changes in metropolitan area nonfarm payroll employment are cited in the analysis of this news release only if they have been determined to be statistically significant at the 90-percent confidence level. Measures of sampling error for the total nonfarm employment series are available for metropolitan areas and metropolitan divisions at www.bls.gov/web/laus/790stderr.htm. Measures of sampling error for more detailed series at the area and division level are available upon request. Measures of sampling error for states at the supersector level and for the private service providing, goods-producing, total private and total nonfarm levels are available on the BLS website at www.bls.gov/web/laus/790stderr.htm.
Area definitions
The substate area data published in this news release reflect the delineations issued by the U.S. Office of Management and Budget on July 21, 2023. A detailed list of the geographic definitions is available online at www.bls.gov/lau/lausmsa.htm.
Additional information
Estimates of unadjusted and seasonally adjusted civilian labor force and unemployment data for states and seven substate areas are available in the news release State Employment and Unemployment. Estimates of civilian labor force and unemployment for all states, metropolitan areas, counties, cities with a population of 25,000 or more, and other areas used in the administration of various federal economic assistance programs are available online at www.bls.gov/lau/. Employment data from the CES program for states and metropolitan areas are available on the BLS website at www.bls.gov/sae/.
If you are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.
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LABOR FORCE DATA NOT SEASONALLY ADJUSTED
Table 1. Civilian labor force and unemployment by state and metropolitan area
Table 1. Civilian labor force and unemployment by state and metropolitan area -- Continued
Table 1. Civilian labor force and unemployment by state and metropolitan area -- Continued
Table 1. Civilian labor force and unemployment by state and metropolitan area -- Continued
Table 1. Civilian labor force and unemployment by state and metropolitan area -- Continued
Table 1. Civilian labor force and unemployment by state and metropolitan area -- Continued
Table 1. Civilian labor force and unemployment by state and metropolitan area -- Continued
Table 2. Civilian labor force and unemployment by state, selected metropolitan area, and metropolitan division1
ESTABLISHMENT DATA NOT SEASONALLY ADJUSTED
Table 3. Employees on nonfarm payrolls by state and metropolitan area, not seasonally adjusted
Table 3. Employees on nonfarm payrolls by state and metropolitan area, not seasonally adjusted -- Continued
Table 3. Employees on nonfarm payrolls by state and metropolitan area, not seasonally adjusted -- Continued
Table 3. Employees on nonfarm payrolls by state and metropolitan area, not seasonally adjusted -- Continued
Table 3. Employees on nonfarm payrolls by state and metropolitan area, not seasonally adjusted -- Continued
Table 3. Employees on nonfarm payrolls by state and metropolitan area, not seasonally adjusted -- Continued
Table 3. Employees on nonfarm payrolls by state and metropolitan area, not seasonally adjusted -- Continued
Table 3. Employees on nonfarm payrolls by state and metropolitan area, not seasonally adjusted -- Continued
Table 4. Employees on nonfarm payrolls by state, selected metropolitan area, and metropolitan division, not seasonally adjusted1
Map 1. Unemployment rates for metropolitan areas, not seasonally adjusted, February 2026
Map 2. Over-the-year percentage change in employment, by metropolitan area, not seasonally adjusted, February 2026
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View original text plus charts and tables here: https://www.bls.gov/news.release/pdf/metro.pdf
Army Lt. Gen. Rafferty Assumes Command of Space & Missile Defense Command During Redstone Arsenal Ceremony
REDSTONE ARSENAL, Alabama, April 30 -- The Army Space and Missile Defense Command issued the following news:
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SMDC welcomes new leader
By Jason Cutshaw , U.S. Army Space and Missile Defense Command
Lt. Gen. John L. Rafferty assumed command of U.S. Army Space and Missile Defense Command from Lt. Gen. Sean A. Gainey during a Change of Command hosted April 29 at the Von Braun III auditorium.
Rafferty acknowledged the responsibility of leadership, noting that he and his spouse, Tracey, look forward to working alongside the Soldiers, civilians and family members of USASMDC.
"Tracey and I
... Show Full Article
REDSTONE ARSENAL, Alabama, April 30 -- The Army Space and Missile Defense Command issued the following news:
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SMDC welcomes new leader
By Jason Cutshaw , U.S. Army Space and Missile Defense Command
Lt. Gen. John L. Rafferty assumed command of U.S. Army Space and Missile Defense Command from Lt. Gen. Sean A. Gainey during a Change of Command hosted April 29 at the Von Braun III auditorium.
Rafferty acknowledged the responsibility of leadership, noting that he and his spouse, Tracey, look forward to working alongside the Soldiers, civilians and family members of USASMDC.
"Tracey and Iare still serving because we love being on great teams and we still want to make a difference," Rafferty said. "We know here at SMDC we're on a great team and no one is making a bigger difference than our Soldiers and units deployed right now and those that are standing watch."
Rafferty said the command is going to continue transforming into an operational headquarters with two priorities: warfighting and people. He added that you can't do one without the other.
"Across this entire command, we'll work together with maximum effort against our enduring priorities," he said. "Number one, we're going to protect the homeland. That's our purpose for being. Number two, we're going to provide combat ready forces around the world. That's our commitment to the joint force.
"Innovation is part of warfighting," Rafferty added. "We're going to ensure that we win tomorrow, that we win next week, and then we win next year with relevant research and development, industry partnership, and capability development. That's our obligation to our Soldiers."
Prior to the change of command ceremony, Gen. Joseph A. Ryan, commanding general of U.S. Army Western Hemisphere Command, promoted Rafferty from major general to lieutenant general, marking a significant milestone ahead of his assumption of command.
During the ceremony, the SMDC colors were formally passed from Gainey to Gen. Christopher C. LaNeve, vice chief of staff of the Army, who then entrusted them to Rafferty. The passing of the colors is a longstanding military tradition symbolizing the transfer of responsibility, authority and accountability from one commander to the next.
LaNeve emphasized the importance of continuity in leadership and expressed full confidence in Rafferty's ability to lead the command forward.
"John is tested, and he is the right man, at the right place, at the right time to lead this organization," LaNeve said. "You're taking command of an organization that sits at the center of how the Army fights and supports the joint force. It's grown in relevance, its responsibility and in expectations.
"You're an incredibly bright gifted leader," he added. You have all the assets, talent and people supporting you. I have full confidence in your abilities and know you'll do an outstanding job. I wish you and Tracey the best of luck as you navigate the challenges and opportunities ahead."
LaNeve then emphasized that Gainey's greatest legacy has been his investment in the people he led and served alongside throughout his 36-year career.
"Today we say goodbye to a leader who has steered this command with tremendous foresight and determination," LaNeve said. "We owe a great deal for the strides made under his command. He's one of a handful of officers who can say they handed the Army something significantly better than what they walked into.
"Every professional measure of Lt. Gen. Gainey's career has been overwhelming success," he added. "He's led Soldiers in combat, managed billion-dollar portfolios, and helped deliver the next generation of Army warfighting capabilities. Sean steps away from this stage into another and leaves behind an invaluable generation of officers, NCOs and civilians who care more about the person than the problem because they watched him."
As he retired, Gainey, who took command of USASMDC in January 2024, addressed the team one final time, reflecting not only on the Army he leaves behind but also on the SMDC family he said he will miss.
"I have been very fortunate," Gainey said. "It's been a true honor to lead this amazing command, and I look forward to seeing what you all will continue to do in the future."
Gainey then spoke of how his wife, Vera, has supported him throughout his 36-year Army career, sharing in the sacrifices and commitments that come with military service.
"Vera, I love you more than anything," Gainey said. "The part I most cherish about retirement is that you're here and stepping into retirement with me as we move forward."
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Original text here: https://www.dvidshub.net/news/563933/smdc-welcomes-new-leader
