We'll bend over backwards to help them find other jobs with the state government or with the private sector.

At the time of the press release, there were 20 vacant positions and 14 early retirements [in place]. That's how we arrived at the 30 positions. We are hoping to bring that number down.

The soft economy -- and regulations which our competitors don't face -- have combined to force us to cut expenses and jobs,

Government has rewarded companies that create jobs.

However, before we make the mistake of patting ourselves on the back, let's remember: government does not create jobs. It only helps create the conditions that make jobs more or less likely. The real credit for our economic renewal belongs to the people of Alabama .

The government is racking its brains to create jobs as it braces itself for a really tough year.