JOB FORECAST PRESENTS CHALLENGES FOR MISSOURI DEVELOPMENT

It is one sign of a strong economy that both national and Missouri unemployment figures are low. Nationally, the jobless rate dipped to 5.2 percent in March, and the state's jobless rate was down to 4.8 percent as of February, the latest month for which figures are available.

Low unemployment has a significant impact on the economy, and the jobless rate is a closely watched economic barometer. In the Cape Girardeau area, unemployment is so low that at times it causes problems in filling some jobs. For some time, employers here have frequently found it difficult to match job needs with available applicants. Other communities in a similar situation have started recruiting efforts to bring prospective employees from other areas of the country where jobs aren't quite so plentiful.

Of particular concern is filling openings that required trained or skilled workers. This is a challenge that involves economic development folks and educational institutions, as well as human resources departments.

Offsetting the current low unemployment figures, though, are some forecasts from economists at the University of Missouri. They say the remaining years of this century are likely to produce fewer job openings than there will be workers to fill them, which could increase unemployment overall in Missouri.

Adding pressure to this trend, if it proves to be accurate, will be federal and state efforts to reduce welfare rolls. Already there are programs in place or in the works to shift welfare recipients to full employment. These efforts will increase the worker pool substantially.

At the same time, Missouri has seen an increase of more than 18,000 jobs in just one month -- February, which is some indication of the current success in expanding the opportunities for Missourians who are seeking work.

The acid test for the state in coming years will be to develop economic development and other efforts that result in more jobs. Lower taxes, special benefits and other enticements are generally the tools of the economic development trade. It can be hoped that the state is prepared to meet this challenge and make sure there are plenty of jobs for Missourians.