The theft of more than $44 million in federal funds meant for unemployed Pennsylvanians was thwarted by government agencies and banking institutions, the U.S. Attorney’s office of the Eastern District of Pennsylvania announced on Tuesday.

The creation of a state-administered Family and Medical Leave Insurance Program that would allow Pennsylvania workers to receive compensation while caring for their families during medical emergencies has industry leaders split on its viability in the private sector.

From now until Jan. 21, state officials are accepting comments for Gov. Tom Wolf’s federally mandated four-year workforce development plan, which seeks to coordinate the efforts of the state's educational institutions, economic development programs and employers of the region’s major industries to create a pathway to optimal employment.

Pennsylvania’s unemployment rate is at a 43-year-low after 10,000 Pennsylvanians found jobs last month.