First-time unemployment claims down 14 percent in March

CARSON CITY — The number of people filing for first-time unemployment benefits in March totaled 13,267, down 14 percent from the same month a year ago, state officials reported today.

The number compares with an average 12,500 monthly claims before the onset of the recession, said Bill Anderson, chief economist for the state Department of Employment, Training and Rehabilitation.

He said the latest jobs report indicates Nevada is close to a stable employment market. Initial monthly claims for unemployment benefits have fallen for 16 straight months when compared to the same month the previous year.

“Combined with the increases in the overall number of jobs in the state, this suggests that the Nevada labor market is firmly on the mend,” he said.

Unemployment in March stood at 8.5 percent in Nevada.

Share