This issue of Poverty Research Now contains a sampling of work that explores today’s labor markets and how they affect low-wage workers. We hope they make a real contribution to policies that reduce U.S. poverty.

In this issue:

The Challenges of Low-wage Work
by Ariel Pihl and Ann Huff Stevens, UC Davis

Wage Growth and Increased Hours Reduce Poverty
By Ariel Pihl, UC Davis

Distance From Jobs May Be a Factor in Employment Discrimination
David Phillips, Hope College

Work Stability May Improve Mental Health
By Bill McCarthy and Angela Carter, UC Davis; and Mikael Jansson and Cecilia Benoit, University of Victoria

Paid Family Leave May Keep Women in the Workforce
By Ariel Pihl and Gaetano Basso, UC Davis