Unemployment rate increases to 25-year high

The jobless rate in the Northeast Georgia area rose one-tenth of one percentage point from a revised 7.2 percent in October.

Meanwhile, the state’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate rose to 7.5 percent in November, the highest rate since July 1983 when it was also 7.5 percent.

The jobless rate was up 3.0 percentage points from 4.5 percent at this same time last year. The November unemployment rate was up six-tenths of one percentage point from a revised 6.9 percent in October.

The state rate remained above the national rate of 6.7 percent for the 10th straight month. At present, 365,244 unemployed Georgians are looking for work.

“My Christmas wish is that all Georgians will embrace the true meaning of this holiday season,” said State Labor Commissioner Michael Thurmond in a statement issued before Christmas.

“During this unprecedented economic crisis, we should remember to give the gift of love and encouragement to unemployed family members and friends. It is also important to reassure those facing economic uncertainty that expensive gifts they can ill-afford to purchase are not expected or needed,” he continued.

Thurmond encouraged jobseekers to remain positive and take advantage of the employment services offered by the Georgia Department of Labor. The department’s Website www.dol.state.ga.us includes accessible listings of current job openings, as well as information about job search, career planning, and education and training opportunities. A complete listing of all 53 career centers is also provided.

Over the last year, the number of payroll jobs in Georgia decreased 94,400 or 2.3 percent. Manufacturing, construction, and trade, along with administrative and support services, including temporary employment agencies, were the hardest hit industries.

In Madison County, unemployment insurance claims have decreased by three percent from 227 in October to 219 in November.