Planned Layoffs Decline in April

Chicago, IL, May 2, 2013 -- Planned layoffs dropped 23% in April from March to their lowest level since December, according to outplacement firm Challenger, Gray and Christmas.

April job cuts totaled 38,121, down from 49,255 in March and from 40,599 a year earlier.

"The economic slowdown that began late in the third quarter and is expected to turn into another summer slump has yet to result in increased or widespread downsizing," said Challenger Chief Executive John A. Challenger.