Regional and State Unemployment in 2011

The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics recently issued a news release regarding the 2011 averages for regional and state unemployment statistics.



According to the news release, annual average unemployment rates declined in 48 states and rose in 2 states and the District of Columbia. Eight of the nine geographic divisions reported statistically significant decreases in unemployment rates in 2011. For the fourth year in a row, the Pacific area recorded the highest unemployment rate (11 percent in 2011).



Employment-population ratios (the proportion of the civilian population 16 years old or older with a job) decreased in 24 states and the District of Columbia, increased in 19 states, and remained unchanged in 7 states. West Virginia reported the lowest employment-population ratio, 49.5 percent; this state has held the lowest employment-population ratio each year since 1976.



The overall jobless rate in the United States in 2011 was 8.9 percent, and the overall employment-population ratio was 58.4 percent.



The attorneys at Clouse Dunn LLP represent employers in employment-related matters, including those regarding unemployment issues. To speak to a Dallas, Texas employment lawyer about an employment law matter, contact the employment lawyers at Clouse Dunn LLP via email at info@clousedunn.com or telephone at 214 220 3888.