“Government layoffs account for about two-thirds of jobs lost by women since President Barack Obama assumed office, said Heidi Hartmann, president of the institute. The firings began as tax revenues were squeezed, meaning women generally were let go on a delayed timeline when compared with men.

“Education was hit when state budgets took a hit,” Hartmann said. “That would also explain why women’s recovery is slower. They have to wait for the states to get back revenue after the economy improves elsewhere before they can start hiring.”