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Construction employment declined in 151 out of 337 metropolitan areas between November 2011 and November 2012, increased in 126 and was stagnant in 60, according to a new analysis of federal employment data released today by the Associated General Contractors of America.  Association officials noted that metro areas in New York and New Jersey in particular experienced significant construction declines in the first full month after Hurricane Sandy. “The uncertainty about 2013 federal tax and spending rates likely prompted firms in many parts of the country to hold back on hiring,” said Ken Simonson, the association’s chief economist.  “Construction workers in the New York area, meanwhile, suffered as existing projects were put on hold in the weeks following Hurricane Sandy.” Read the full press release .