Unemployment Down in Northwest Georgia |  Local News

Georgia Labor Commissioner Bruce Thompson said all of Georgia’s regional commissions reported declines in unemployment rates in September.

“Georgia is the ultimate destination for business and economic opportunity,” Thompson said. “However, with recent workforce reductions at Geico, Yellow Freight and other companies across the state, we must be cognizant of the financial pressures that are creating some instability within our existing business community. In today’s ever-changing global marketplace, we must remain vigilant and lead with innovation.”

The workforce increased in all areas except the Coastal Georgia Regional Commission.

In northwest Georgia:

• The unemployment rate fell by six tenths to 3.2% over the course of the month, compared to 2.7% a year ago.

• The labor force increased by 1,567 for the month and by 11,251 for the year to 439,618, an all-time high.

• The number of employees increased by 3,898 for the month and by 8,754 for the year to 425,496, an all-time high.

• Initial claims increased by 166 (8%) for the month and fell by 552 (-20%) for the year to 2,237.