Job opportunities rise, future status of economy still uncertain

The recent news of the dipped unemployment rate may serve as a positive sign for the American workforce, but substantial gains in the economy may not be seen just yet, The Ledger reports. Last week, it was revealed by the U.S. Census Bureau that the unemployment rate fell to 8.6 percent. The addition of jobs was so profound that the United States hadn't seen such growth within the employment industry since 2006, according to the news source. Some individuals relying on short-term financing solutions to cover their monthly costs may feel the economy is building and opportunities are becoming prevalent. However, according to the ongoing European economic crisis, as well as national obstacles, the U.S. economy may only see a growth of 2 percent during 2012, according to the news source. President Barack Obama encouraged Congress to agree on a payroll tax cut extension before year's end in hopes of further boosting the American economy. "Now is not the time to slam the brakes on the recovery," Obama said in a statement. "Right now it’s time to step on the gas. We need to get this done. I expect that it’s going to get done before Congress leaves. Otherwise, Congress may not be leaving, and we can all spend Christmas here together."