Associated Press (04/11/12) Christopher S. Rugaber

The decrease in hiring in March as reported by the U.S.
Department of Labor could be temporary, according to a survey of
business conditions by the U.S. Federal Reserve showing that
hiring either rose or held steady across the country from
mid-February through April 2. The “beige book” report
indicates that the manufacturing, shipping, information
technology, and professional business services sectors saw job
gains. John Canally, an economist at LPL Financial, says, “I
didn’t see any companies say that they’re scaling back
sharply on hiring because demand is slowing.” However, in
three districts, employers said they would delay expanding their
work forces until growth strengthens. Rising gas prices remain a
concern for employers in most areas.