The unemployment numbers released by the Alabama Department of Labor on Thursday show 28,985 Alabamians filed jobless claims during the latest reporting period.
This number represents a steep decline in weekly claims, which reached a peak of 106,739 for the week ending April 4.
A total of 448,332 of the state’s residents have filed initial unemployment claims since February 8. Governor Kay Ivey declared a State of Emergency due to the COVID-19 outbreak on March 13.
Six counties had more than 1,000 claims in the most recent week.
They are as follows:
Baldwin: 1,280
Jefferson: 3,985
Madison: 1,964
Mobile: 3,353
Montgomery: 1,665
Tuscaloosa: 1,137
The U.S. Department of Labor reported 3.2 million claims nationally for the week ending May 2.
Ivey’s most recent public health order allows retail outlets to operate at 50% capacity and permits elective medical procedures. The order is set to expire on May 15.
Barbershops, salons and in-person dining at restaurants remain impermissible business activities. In addition, gatherings of more than 10 persons are prohibited, keeping worship services virtual for at least another week.
The federal government releases its jobs report on Friday. The report is expected to show a record number of losses.
Tim Howe is an owner of Yellowhammer Multimedia
