SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) - California's unemployment rate dipped in September to 10.2 percent, down from 10.6 percent the previous month.

The state Employment Development Department said… Click to Read More and see additional updates

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) - California's unemployment rate dipped in September to 10.2 percent, down from 10.6 percent the previous month.

The state Employment Development Department said on Friday that California added 8,500 nonfarm payroll jobs last month, showing the state's economy was continuing its gradual improvement.

The rate in September was more than a full percentage point better than the 11.7 percent unemployment rate at the same time a year ago.

Half a dozen sectors grew in September, including education, finance and hospitality.

The drop in California's jobless rate follows the national trend.

The overall unemployment rate dropped in September to 7.8 percent, falling below 8 percent for the first time since the month President Barack Obama took office.

(Copyright 2012 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

WASHINGTON (AP) - Unemployment rates fell or held steady last month in nine key swing states at the center of this year's presidential election.

Rates dropped in Ohio, Florida, Wisconsin, Colorado, Iowa, Nevada and North Carolina. They were unchanged in New Hampshire and Virginia.

The declines could help President Barack Obama at a critical time. With just 18 days until Election Day, polls show GOP challenger Mitt Romney gaining momentum with voters.

Overall, the Labor Department says rates fell in 41 states last month, rose in six and were unchanged in three. The national unemployment rate dropped in September to 7.8 percent, the lowest level since Obama's first month in office.

Still, many key states are facing high unemployment. The rate was 11.8 percent in Nevada and 9.6 percent in North Carolina.

WASHINGTON (AP) - Weekly applications for U.S. unemployment benefits jumped 46,000 last week to a seasonally adjusted 388,000, the highest in four months. The increase represents a rebound from the previous week's sharp drop. Both swings were largely due to technical factors.

The Labor Department says the four-week average of applications, a less volatile measure, fell slightly to 365,500, a level consistent with modest hiring.

Last week, California reported a large drop in applications, pushing down the overall figure to the lowest since February 2008. This week, it reported a significant increase as it processed applications delayed from the previous week.

A department spokesman says the seasonally adjusted numbers "are being distorted ... by an issue of timing."

Applications are a proxy for layoffs. When they decline, it suggests hiring is improving.

NEW YORK (AP) - Stocks are rising in early trading on Wall Street after the government reported that the U.S. unemployment rate fell below 8 percent for the first time in almost four years.

The Dow Jones industrial average rose 66 points to 13,641 shortly after the opening bell Friday. The Dow is heading for its first winning week following two weeks of losses.

The broader Standard & Poor's 500 index climbed eight points to 1,469. The Nasdaq composite rose 14 points to 3,162.

The Labor Department said the unemployment rate dropped to 7.8 percent in September, matching the rate in January 2009, when President Barack Obama took office.

The yield on the 10-year U.S. Treasury note rose to 1.73 percent from 1.68 percent as investors shifted money from bonds into stocks.

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WASHINGTON (AP) - Unemployment rates fell in nearly 90 percent of large U.S. metro areas in August, mainly because more people gave up looking for work.

The Labor Department says unemployment rates dropped in 329 large cities, the most in four months. Rates rose in 24 cities and were unchanged in 19.

The decline in rates across America's cities was largely for a bad reason: The government only counts people as unemployed if they are actively looking for work.

The trend closely matched the national figures. The U.S. unemployment rate fell in August to 8.1 percent from 8.3 percent also because more people stopped searching for jobs and weren't counted.

The metro data are more volatile than the national figures because they aren't adjusted for seasonal factors, such as summer hiring.

(Copyright 2012 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) - California's unemployment rate dipped slightly in August to 10.6 percent, down from 10.7 percent the previous month.

The state Employment Development Department released the latest jobs numbers on Friday. They are an improvement over California's 11.9 percent unemployment rate a year ago and show the state's economy is continuing its slow recovery.

California added more than 12,000 nonfarm payroll jobs in August.

The biggest jobs gains were in the educational and health services sectors. Mining and logging, transportation and government were among the sectors that saw job losses.

A forecast released this week projected that employment in the state would pick up slowly in the coming year, with the unemployment rate dropping to 8.5 percent in 2014.

The national unemployment rate in August was 8.1 percent.

(Copyright 2012 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

WASHINGTON (AP) - Unemployment rates rose in more than half of U.S. states last month, the latest evidence that hiring remains tepid across the country.

The Labor Department says rates increased in 26 states. They fell in 12 states and were unchanged in the other 12. Unemployment also rose in seven of the 11 key swing states in this year's presidential election.

Nationwide, hiring employers added only 96,000 jobs in August, below July's gain of 141,000 and the average of 226,000 jobs a month added in January-March quarter.

The U.S. unemployment rate fell to 8.1 percent from 8.3 percent in July. But that was only because many people gave up looking for work. The government only counts people as unemployed if they are actively searching for jobs.

WASHINGTON (AP) - The number of Americans seeking unemployment benefits fell only slightly last week to a seasonally adjusted 382,000. The level suggests hiring remains weak.

The Labor Department says applications declined by 3,000 from the previous week, which was revised up. The four-week average, a less volatile measure, rose for the fifth straight week to 377,750, the highest level in nearly three months.

Applications were skewed higher two weeks ago by the fallout from Hurricane Isaac. A Labor Department spokesman said there were no special factors last week.

Weekly applications are a measure of the pace of layoffs. When they consistently top 375,000, it is usually a sign that hiring isn't strong enough to push down the unemployment rate.

Employers added only 96,000 jobs last month, below July's total of 141,000.

WASHINGTON (AP) - The number of people seeking unemployment benefits rose a slight 4,000 last week to a seasonally adjusted 372,000, evidence that the job market's recovery remains modest and uneven.

The Labor Department says the four-week average, a less volatile measure, increased to 368,000.

Applications are a measure of the pace of layoffs. When they fall consistently below 375,000, it generally suggests hiring is strong enough to lower the unemployment rate.

Applications have risen for two straight weeks. But they are still lower than they were five weeks ago. That suggests hiring could improve slightly this month.

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WASHINGTON (AP) - The number of Americans applying for unemployment benefits edged up slightly last week but remained at a level consistent with modest gains in hiring.

The Labor Department says unemployment benefit applications rose by 2,000 to 366,000. The less volatile four-week average fell by 5,500 to 363,750. That was the lowest level since late March.

Applications have trended lower in the past two months, a sign that companies are laying off fewer workers and hiring is picking up. When applications fall consistently below 375,000, it generally suggests hiring is strong enough to lower the unemployment rate.

The economy and hiring improved in July after falling into a midyear slump. Employers added 163,000 jobs last month, the best job growth since February.

WASHINGTON (AP) - U.S. companies in March posted the highest number of job openings in nearly four years, a sign that hiring could strengthen in the coming months after slowing this spring.

The Labor Department says employers advertised 3.74 million job openings in March. That's up from a revised 3.57 million in February. The March figure was the highest since July 2008, just before the financial crisis erupted that fall.

The 4.8 percent increase in openings suggests job growth could pick up in May. It usually takes one to three months for employers to fill openings.

Still, more than 12.7 million people were unemployed in March. That means an average of 3.4 people competed for each open job. In a healthy job market, the ratio is usually around 2 to 1.

NEW YORK (AP) - Small business owners recovered some of their optimism during April, but they're still wary about the economy.

The National Federation of Independent Business says its index of small business optimism rose 2 points last month to 94.5. That makes up for the 2 points lost in March, but only returns the index to its February 2011 level. William Dunkelberg, the NFIB's chief economist, still classifies the reading as weak.

Dunkelberg says owners' plans to hire rose during April. But he notes that news about the economy and Europe's debt crisis is still bad. He predicts only small improvements in hiring, optimism and spending for the rest of the year.

The index was compiled from a survey of NFIB members. The group represents and lobbies on behalf of 350,000 business owners.

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) - California's unemployment rate rose back to 11 percent in March after two months of decline.

The rate released Friday was up just one-tenth of a percentage point from the previous month but was the first time since December that California's jobless rate hit or exceeded 11 percent.

The uptick in California contrasts with the national trend. The nationwide jobless rate fell in March to 8.2 percent.

Despite the increase, California's rate in March was still nearly a full percentage point better than the 11.9 percent unemployment rate a year ago.

The state Employment Development Department reported Friday that more than 18,000 nonfarm payroll jobs were created in March. That adds to a total gain of nearly 386,000 jobs since the recovery began in September 2009.

(Copyright 2012 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

NEW YORK (AP) - Stocks are pulling back sharply as Wall Street reacts to a slowdown in hiring in the United States in March.

The Dow Jones industrial average dropped 155 points to 12,905 shortly before noon Monday. The Standard & Poor's 500 index was off 19 at 1,379, and the Nasdaq composite lost 38 points to 3,042.

The losses were broad. All 10 industry groups in the S&P 500 fell, led by financial stocks. Bank of America was off 3 percent, Citigroup 2.5 percent.

The U.S. added just 120,000 jobs in March, about half the pace from December through February. The slowdown interrupted the strongest stretch of job growth since the Great Recession. The government released its jobs report on Friday, but the stock market was closed for the Good Friday holiday.

(Copyright 2012 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

WASHINGTON (AP) - The number of people seeking U.S. unemployment benefits fell to a four-year low last week, as layoffs slow and the job market strengthens.

The Labor Department says weekly unemployment benefit applications dropped 6,000 to a seasonally adjusted 357,000. That's the fewest since April 2008.

The four-week average, a less volatile measure, fell to 361,750, also the lowest in four years. The average has fallen nearly 13 percent in the past six months.

When unemployment benefit applications drop consistently below 375,000, it usually signals that hiring is strong enough to lower the unemployment rate.

The decline coincides with the best three months of job growth in two years. On Friday, the government issues its March jobs report, which is expected to show the fourth straight month of strong hiring.

WASHINGTON (AP) - The number of people seeking U.S. unemployment benefits fell to a four-year low last week, as layoffs slow and the job market strengthens.

The Labor Department says weekly unemployment benefit applications dropped 6,000 to a seasonally adjusted 357,000. That's the fewest since April 2008.

The four-week average, a less volatile measure, fell to 361,750, also the lowest in four years. The average has fallen nearly 13 percent in the past six months.

When unemployment benefit applications drop consistently below 375,000, it usually signals that hiring is strong enough to lower the unemployment rate.

The decline coincides with the best three months of job growth in two years. On Friday, the government issues its March jobs report, which is expected to show the fourth straight month of strong hiring.

(Copyright 2012 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

WASHINGTON (AP) - Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke says that without faster economic growth, it could take "a few more years" for unemployment to decline to a normal rate.

In an interview with ABC News, Bernanke says he is sleeping better these days because the U.S. financial system looks stronger, and threats from Europe's debt crisis look less worrisome. He says the jump in gas prices should have only a moderate effect on growth.

But Bernanke says the economy isn't strong enough to continue to reduce unemployment quickly. The unemployment rate has declined from 9 percent in September to the current 8.3 percent.

Further declines to a healthy level between 5 percent and 6 percent would require a pickup in economic growth, Bernanke says.

(Copyright 2012 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) - California's unemployment rate remained unchanged in February at 10.9 percent.

The state Employment Development Department reported Friday that the jobless rate held the same from January, when it dipped below 11 percent for the first time in three years.

Officials said the state added 4,000 nonfarm jobs since the January survey, pointing to a gradual improvement in the state's economy. That builds off a slight gain of 1,500 jobs in January based on revised figures.

The state has added 333,100 jobs since the economic recovery officially began in September 2009.

The number of unemployed people in California remains above 2 million but it was down by 6,000 over the month.

Stocks are drifting lower after a pair of positive economic reports.

The government said early Thursday that unemployment claims fell last week, matching a four-year low reached last month. The job market has been strengthening, with employers adding jobs quickly enough to absorb thousands of new workers streaming into the labor force.

A separate report showed prices paid by wholesalers rose less than expected in February, despite high gas prices.

The Dow is down 22 points at 13,172 in the first 15 minutes of trading. The Standard & Poor's 500 index is down 1 at 1,392. The Nasdaq composite average is down 1 at 3,039.

If the Dow Jones industrial average closes higher, it would mark its first seven-session winning streak in more than a year.

(Copyright 2012 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

WASHINGTON (AP) - Fewer people sought unemployment benefits last week, adding to signs that the job market is strengthening.

The Labor Department says weekly unemployment benefit applications dropped 14,000 to a seasonally adjusted 351,000. That matches a four-year low reached last month. The four-week average, which smooths fluctuations, was unchanged at 355,750.

Applications have leveled off in the past few weeks after falling for six months. The average has declined 14 percent since October.

The steady decline has coincided with the best three months of hiring in two years. From December through February, employers have added an average of 245,000 jobs per month.

When unemployment benefit applications drop consistently below 375,000, it usually signals that hiring is strong enough to lower the unemployment rate.

(Copyright 2012 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

WASHINGTON (AP) - The unemployment rate fell in 45 U.S. states in January, a sign that nearly all of the country is benefiting from an improving economy and job market.

The Labor Department said that only New York state reported a higher unemployment rate in January than the previous month. Unemployment rates were unchanged in four states.

That's better than December, when rates fell in 37 states, were unchanged in 10 and rose in three.

Nationwide, the unemployment rate fell to 8.3 percent in January from 8.5 percent. Employers added 284,000 jobs in January, the second-highest total in six years.

Nevada had the nation's highest unemployment rate in January, at 12.7 percent, down from 13 percent in the previous month. California and Rhode Island had the next-highest rates, each with 10.9 percent.

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WASHINGTON (AP) - The number of people seeking unemployment aid fell to nearly a four-year low last week, an encouraging sign of continued improvement in the job market.

The Labor Department says weekly applications for unemployment benefits fell 15,000 to a seasonally adjusted 358,000. That's the second-lowest level since April 2008.

The four-week average, a less volatile measure, fell to 366,250, the lowest since late April 2008.

The figures come a week after the government reported that employers added 243,000 net jobs last month. That pushed the unemployment rate down to 8.3 percent, the lowest in nearly three years.

When applications fall consistently below 375,000, it usually signals that hiring is strong enough to lower the unemployment rate.

(Copyright 2012 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

WASHINGTON (AP) - The unemployment rate fell for the fifth straight month after a surge of January hiring, a promising shift in the nation's outlook for job growth.

The Labor Department says employers added 243,000 jobs in January, the most in nine months. The unemployment rate dropped to 8.3 percent from 8.5 percent in December. That's the lowest in nearly three years.

Employers have added an average of 201,000 jobs per month in the past three months. That's 50,000 more jobs per month than the economy averaged in each month last year.

The January jobs report was filled with other encouraging data and revisions. Hiring was widespread across many high-paying industries. Pay increased. And the economy added 200,000 more jobs in 2011 than first thought.

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WASHINGTON (AP) - The number of people seeking unemployment aid fell last week, a sign that companies are cutting fewer jobs and likely stepping up hiring.

The Labor Department says weekly unemployment applications fell 12,000 to a seasonally adjusted 367,000. The four-week average, a less volatile measure, dropped for the third straight week to 375,750.

That's the second-lowest level for the four-week average since June 2008. When applications stay consistently below 375,000, it usually signals that hiring is strong enough to lower the unemployment rate.

The report comes a day before the government will issue its jobs report for January. Economists forecast that the report will show that employers added 155,000 jobs last month, while the unemployment rate remained at 8.5 percent.

(Copyright 2012 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

WASHINGTON (AP) - The number of people seeking unemployment benefits rose last week to a seasonally adjusted 377,000, after a nearly four-year low the previous week.

The Labor Department says weekly applications increased 21,000. Applications had plummeted two weeks ago to their lowest level since April 2008. The four week average, a less volatile measure, is down to 377,500.

Applications have trended downward over the past few months. The average has fallen about 9 percent since Oct. 1.

Unemployment applications have been particularly volatile this month because employers have cut temporary workers hired for the holidays. The department adjusts for seasonal trends. But doing so accurately can be difficult.

Applications generally need to fall consistently below 375,000 to signal that hiring is strong enough to lower the unemployment rate.

(Copyright 2012 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

WASHINGTON (AP) - The Federal Reserve has downgraded its outlook for economic growth this year but is slightly more optimistic about the unemployment rate.

The Fed expects the economy to grow between 2.2 percent and 2.7 percent this year. That's down from November's forecast of between 2.5 percent and 2.9 percent.

But it sees unemployment falling as low as 8.2 percent, an improvement from November's bottom rate of 8.5 percent.

The updated quarterly forecast also shows that some Fed members wanted to extend the period of record-low interest rates beyond 2014.

Earlier Wednesday, the Fed said in its policy statement that it doesn't plan to raise its benchmark interest rate before 2014.

The Fed also offered a firmer target for inflation - 2 percent - in a statement of its long-term policy goals.

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) - Buoyed by seasonal hiring, California's unemployment rate dipped slightly in December to 11.1 percent, down two-tenths of a percent from the previous month.

Nonfarm payroll jobs increased by 10,700 last month, for a total gain of 240,300 jobs in 2011.

Officials at the Employment Development Department said Friday's report shows California is continuing a gradual economic improvement.

The biggest growth came in areas of construction, information, professional and business services, educational and health services and government.

Meanwhile, areas including mining, manufacturing, transportation, financial activities and hospitality all reported job losses.

California remains above the national jobless rate of 8.5 percent.

California's unemployment rate was near 12 percent for months and has been above 11 percent since 2009.

The state's rate fell to 11.3 percent in November, the lowest since May 2009.

(Copyright 2012 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

WASHINGTON (AP) - The number of people seeking unemployment benefits fell further in the final week of 2011, a positive sign for hiring one day ahead of Friday's December employment report.

The Labor Department says weekly applications dropped 15,000 to a seasonally adjusted 372,000 last week. It was the fourth drop in five weeks. The four-week average, which smooths fluctuations, declined to 373,250, the lowest level since June 2008.

When applications drop below 375,000 - consistently - they generally signal that hiring is strong enough to reduce the unemployment rate.

Applications have declined steadily over the past three months. The four-week average fell 11 percent in 2011, evidence that companies are laying off fewer workers. But many employers have been slow to add jobs.

WASHINGTON (AP) - Unemployment rates fell in 43 states in November, reflecting a modest pickup in the nation's job market.
The Labor Department says only three states reported increases in their unemployment rates in November. Four states showed no change.
Nationally, the unemployment rate dropped in November to 8.6 percent, the lowest since March 2009. Employers added a net total of 120,000 jobs.
Nevada again had the highest state unemployment rate: 13 percent. It was followed by California at 11.3 percent. North Dakota again enjoyed the lowest unemployment rate: 3.4 percent.

WASHINGTON (AP) - The unemployment rate fell last month to its lowest level in more than two and a half years, as employers stepped up hiring in response to the slowly improving economy.

The Labor Department says the unemployment rate dropped sharply to 8.6 percent last month, down from 9 percent in October. The rate hasn't been that low since March 2009, during the depths of the recession.

Employers added 120,000 jobs last month. And the previous two months were revised up to show that 72,000 more jobs added - the fourth straight month the government revised prior months higher.

Still, one reason the unemployment rate fell so much was because roughly 315,000 people gave up looking for work and were no longer counted as unemployed.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

WASHINGTON (AP) - The number of people seeking unemployment benefits ticked up slightly last week after two months of steady declines. But the increase isn't enough to reverse the downward trend.

The four-week average of applications, a less volatile measure, fell to its lowest level since April. The decline in the average signals that companies are laying off fewer workers.

The Labor Department says weekly applications for unemployment aid rose 2,000 to a seasonally adjusted 393,000. It's the second increase in six weeks.

The four-week average fell to 394,250. That's the eighth drop in the past nine weeks.

Even so, weekly applications would need to stay below 375,000 consistently to push down the unemployment rate significantly. They haven't been at that level since February.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

WASHINGTON (AP) - Congressional Democrats and Republicans rallied on a rare patch of common ground Wednesday, moving to pass a bill helping unemployed veterans and government contractors.
The GOP-run House was expected to give the measure near unanimous approval, less than a week after the Democratic-led Senate passed it 95-0. It would represent the first tiny shred of President Barack Obama's ambitious, nearly $450 billion job-creation package, to become law.
Despite the newfound party unity on this single, narrow issue, Democrats and Republicans also used the floor discussion to highlight their political differences.
Republicans said it was time for the Senate to approve nearly 20 House-passed bills that they say would create jobs, mostly by repealing or blocking energy and other regulations, and they touted Wednesday's vote as part of that drive.
"It sends a message to America's job creators that jobs are our No. 1 priority and that Congress is committed to undoing policies that stand in the way of restoring prosperity," said Rep. Wally Herger, R-Calif.
Rep. Sander Levin said the bill's provisions were modest steps toward resuscitating the ailing job market and said Republicans needed to go much further.
"Passage of this bill represents a challenge to the majority in this House: End your blockade of comprehensive jobs legislation" proposed by Obama, the Michigan Democrat said.
Obama proposed a $447 billion jobs program in September, a proposal that would have continued reduced payroll taxes for workers and employers, extended unemployment insurance benefits and provided money to build roads, modernize schools and hire teachers, police and firefighters.
Enactment of the bill debated Wednesday would let Obama and lawmakers claim credit for protecting jobs at a time when the public is clearly furious over the nation's unemployment rate, which has been stuck at around 9 percent. With the president and congressional Republicans in strong disagreement over how to fix the sluggish economy, he and lawmakers may not have many other job-related accomplishments to show voters in time for next year's presidential and congressional elections.
The bill would repeal a 2006 law requiring the federal, state and local governments to withhold 3 percent of their payments to many companies with which they do business. That statute, which doesn't take effect until 2013, was supposed to pressure contractors to fully pay their taxes, but lawmakers now say the withholding would deny cash to companies that they could better use to hire more workers.
Trying to keep the pressure on, a coalition of around 200 industry groups - from aeronautical repair businesses to water treatment companies - wrote to House members this week urging passage of the bill.
"The profit margin for many businesses is often less than 3 percent, meaning that the withholding tax will create significant cash flow problems for day-to-day operations as well as draining capital that could be used for job creation and business expansion," they wrote.
Many economists have said annulling the withholding law would have a minimal impact on hiring.
Erasing the law would reduce federal revenues by an estimated $11.2 billion over the coming decade. It would be paid for by making it harder for some elderly people to qualify for Medicaid by changing the formula used to determine their eligibility.
The bill would also establish new or more generous tax credits for companies hiring unemployed veterans, up to $9,600 for disabled vets who have looked for work for more than half a year. The size of the credit would be based on the worker's salary and how long the worker was unemployed.
Obama proposed the new tax credits in his $447 billion jobs bill in September. The credits would cost an estimated $95 million over 10 years, far less than 1 percent of the overall bill's price tag.
Lawmakers have rejected or ignored most of Obama's jobs plan. The president has made repeated speeches and campaign-style trips promoting it and blaming Congress for not approving the package.
The measure the House was debating Wednesday would also expand education and job training benefits for veterans, improve job counseling that troops get before leaving the military and provide an additional year of job services for disabled veterans.
The hiring tax credits and veterans' programs would be financed by extending a fee the Veterans Affairs Department charges to back mortgages.

The rules have changed when it comes to jobseekers.
"The method of looking for a job is different than it was even five years ago," said Kathy Marcove of the Business and Career One Stop of San Luis Obispo.
Gone are the paper resumes. In, are social media sites and online resumes.
"This has been the toughest most competitive job market in our lifetime," said Marcove.
Which explains why so many collect unemployment benefits, sometimes up to the allotted 99 weeks, now that we're in a "new normal" for the unemployed.
"The last job I applied for, there were 500 applicants," said Rick Pinherio, an unemployed database manager.
According to the latest figures from the EDD, unemployment benefit claims have dropped to their lowest levels in San Luis Obispo County, since 2009.
In August of this year, 6034 unemployment benefit claims were filed.
But to put that into perspective, there were only 1539 claims in May of 2007... that's a 292-percent increase.
At their highest levels in March of 2010, San Luis Obispo County had 8658 claims, that's a 462-percent increase since 2007.
"There were record amounts of benefits being paid," said Loree Levy, spokesperson for the Employment Development Department.
"We've just never seen anything like this magnitude," said Levy.
It's a similar scenario in Santa Barbara County, where the unemployment benefits claims peaked in February of 2010 at 12,837.
But less than three years earlier, only 2488 claims were filed, that's a 415 percent increase.
The latest figures there also show a steady drop in the number of people filing for unemployment benefits.
According to the EDD, 8224 claims were filed in August... that's the lowest number since December of 2008.
For those receiving benefits, the average amount -- just 293.55 a week.
Not much to live on, and the stats show, many try to take advantage of the system.
"The most common kind of fraud, is when a claimant finds a new job, goes back to work and neglects to tell EDD.. and that is fraud," said Levy.
From 2008 to 2010, the EDD estimates the number of overpayments has almost tripled from 88 million to 250 million a year.
"We will find those cases through our cross matching system, and when we do... we assess a 30% fee," said Levy.
And that's just to start. Levy says the state could also take what's theirs... from tax refunds and future unemployment benefits.
But the major concern, for most law abiding jobseekers... is getting off unemployment. And for that, there are resources right in our own backyard.
"We have workshops, we have mock interviews, access to the internet for free, photocopy machines, fax machines, setting up an email, searching for jobs, resume writing," said Marcove.
And it's all free, at the Business and Career One Stop in San Luis Obispo County.
In Santa Maria, it's called the Workforce Resource Center.
For jobseekers like Pinherio, who's been looking for work for about a year, it's a place to brush up on skills, and hopefully connect with an employer.
"They've helped me fine tune my resume. I'm a little wordy in my resume," said Pinherio.
In this climate, persistence pays off.
"People are getting jobs everyday, so you cannot give up hope," said Marcove.

WASHINGTON (AP) - Hiring slowed in October as employers faced more uncertainty over future economic growth.

The Labor Department says the economy added 80,000 jobs last month, the fewest in four months and below September's revised total of 158,000. The unemployment rate dipped to 9 percent.

Businesses added 104,000 jobs, below September's total. Government shed 24,000 jobs.

The report included some positive signs. The government revised August and September's figures upward by 102,000. Average hourly earnings rose. And the unemployment rate fell for the first time since July, because a separate survey of households showed more people found work.

The report suggests that President Barack Obama will likely face the voters with the highest unemployment rate of any postwar president.

WASHINGTON (AP) - The Federal Reserve has lowered its growth forecasts and raised its unemployment projections, suggesting the economy has a longer path to recovery.

The central bank's latest forecast predicts the economy will grow just 1.6 percent to 1.7 percent for all of 2011. For 2012, growth will range between 2.5 percent and 2.9 percent. Both forecasts are roughly a full percentage point lower than the Fed's projections from June.

The unemployment current is currently 9.1 percent. The Fed doesn't see that changing this year. It predicts it will fall between 8.5 percent and 8.7 percent next year. In June, the Fed had
predicted unemployment would drop next year to as low as 7.8 percent.

The new forecast takes into account the substantial slowdown in growth that occurred earlier this year.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

California's unemployment rate slipped a bit last month, a trend that was mirrored locally.

The California Employment Development Department Friday released its monthly jobless report. The rate for September stands at 11.9 percent, down from 12.1 percent a month earlier.

Some jobs were filled here at home. In San Luis Obispo County, the unemployment rate dropped to 9.3 percent. That's down from 9.7 percent in August. The jobless rate stands at 8.6 percent in Santa Barbara County right now, down from 8.8 percent in August.

There are more than 31,000 looking for work on the Central Coast.

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) - California's unemployment rate dipped slightly to 11.9 percent in September but has not moved significantly from where it has been through most of the recession.

The state Employment Development Department reported Friday that California added 11,800 nonfarm jobs, led by construction, professional and business services, and leisure and hospitality.

The September number was down from August's jobless rate of 12.1 percent and lower than during the same month a year ago, when the unemployment rate stood at 12.5 percent.

A survey of businesses showed nonfarm jobs in the state totaled 14.1 million in September. California reported 2.1 million people without jobs, roughly the same as the previous month month.

California has the second highest unemployment rate in the nation, behind Nevada's 13.4 percent. The national rate is 9.1 percent.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

WASHINGTON (AP) - Unemployment rates fell in half of U.S. states last month, a sign that September's pickup in hiring was felt around the country.

The Labor Department says unemployment rates dropped in 25 states, rose in 14 and stayed the same in 11. That's a modest improvement from August, when unemployment rose in 26 states.

Nationwide, employers added 103,000 net jobs in September, nearly double the number created in August. Still, that's not enough to lower the unemployment rate, which stayed at 9.1 percent for the third straight month.

Nevada reported the highest unemployment rate for the 16th straight month. It stayed at 13.4 percent for the second consecutive month. California was next. The rate there fell from 12.1 in August to 11.9 percent. Michigan had the third-highest
rate, at 11.1 percent.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

WASHINGTON (AP) - The number of people applying for unemployment benefits declined slightly last week, leaving applications above levels consistent with a healthy economy.

The Labor Department says weekly applications dropped 6,000 to a seasonally adjusted 403,000. The department revised last week's figure upward to 409,000.

Applications are slowly edging down. The four-week average fell for the fourth straight week to 403,000. A month ago it was 422,250.

Still, applications need to fall consistently below 375,000 to signal sustainable job growth. They haven't been below that level since February.

Economists have been closely watching the unemployment benefits report since fears of another recession intensified in August.

Layoffs and applications tend to rise at the beginning of recessions. The slow decline in applications suggests hiring remains sluggish but layoffs aren't worsening.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

WASHINGTON (AP) - Unemployment rates fell in roughly two-thirds of U.S. cities last month, despite zero job growth nationwide.

The Labor Department says unemployment rates dropped in 237 of the nation's largest metro areas in August from July. They rose in 103 and stayed the same in 32. That's an improvement from July, when rates fell in 193 areas and rose in 118.

The U.S. economy added no net jobs in August, the least amount of hiring in almost a year. The national unemployment rate remained 9.1 percent for the second straight month.

Unemployment dropped the most last month in Yuba City, Calif., a heavily agricultural area in Northern California. Metro unemployment data is not adjusted for seasonal changes, such as the beginning of harvest season.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

According to new figures released Friday by the California Employment Development Department, the state's unemployment rate rose slightly to 12.1 percent in August as nonfarm payroll jobs decreased by 8,400. The state had an unemployment rate of 12 percent in July.

Preliminary numbers for the Central Coast show San Luis Obispo County's unemployment rate was 9.7 percent in August, down from 10.5 percent in July. Santa Barbara County's unemployment rate stood at 8.8 percent in August, down from 9.1 percent in July.

WASHINGTON (AP) - The number of people seeking unemployment benefits ticked up slightly last week, evidence that the job market isn't improving.

The Labor Department says weekly applications for unemployment benefits rose 2,000 to a seasonally adjusted 414,000.

The report suggests companies aren't significantly increasing layoffs, despite weak economic growth. But it also signals that little hiring is taking place. Applications need to fall below 375,000 to indicate sustainable job growth. They haven't been below
that level since February.

The four-week average, a less volatile measure, increased for the third straight week to 414,750.

Hurricane Irene didn't affect applications. But the government estimated figures for several states because the Labor Day holiday delayed some reporting of data.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

California's unemployment rate jumped back up to 12 percent in the month of July.

The state's Unemployment Department released the new numbers Friday. The unemployment rate was 11.8 percent in June, and the last time it was up at 12 percent was in March.

The state has also released preliminary numbers for the Central Coast.

In San Luis Obispo County, the unemployment rate stands at 10.5 percent for the month of July. That's up from 9.9 percent in June.

In Santa Barbara County, the unemployment rate is at 9.1 percent for July. That's up from 8.9 percent in June.

WASHINGTON (AP) - Unemployment rates rose in July in more than half the states for the second straight month, evidence that job growth remains weak nationwide.

The Labor Department says unemployment increased in 28 states, fell in nine and remained unchanged in 13. Those are nearly the same figures as in June, when unemployment rose in 28 states, fell in eight and was unchanged in 14.

Nationwide, hiring picked up slightly in July. The economy added 117,000 jobs, roughly double the number in each of the previous two months. The unemployment rate fell to 9.1 percent. Still, hiring has slowed sharply this year - from an average of 215,000 net jobs a month from February through April to an average of 72,000 in May through July.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

NEW YORK (AP) - Stocks are rising at the opening of trading after fewer people joined the unemployment line last week.

The Dow Jones industrial average is up 143 points, or 1.3 percent, at 10,863. The S&P 500 is up 14, or 1.3 percent, at 1,136. The Nasdaq is up 41, or 1.7 percent, at 2,422.

The number of people filing for unemployment benefits for the first time fell below 400,000 last week for the first time in four months. It may be a sign that the job market is slowly improving.

Cisco Systems Inc. reported profit for its latest quarter that topped analysts' expectations.

The Dow has moved more than 400 points every day this week, the first time it has done that three days in a row since 2008. It fell more almost 520 points on Wednesday.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

WASHINGTON (AP) - Hiring picked up slightly in July and the unemployment rate dipped to 9.1 percent, an optimistic sign after the worst day on Wall Street in nearly three years.

The Labor Department says employers added 117,000 jobs last month. That's an improvement from the past two months.

The mild gain may ease investors' concerns after the Dow Jones industrial average plummeted more than 500 points over concerns that the U.S. may be entering another recession.

Still, the economy needs twice as many net jobs per month to rapidly reduce unemployment. The rate has topped 9 percent in every month except two since the recession officially ended in June 2009.

The unemployment rate fell partly because some unemployed workers stopped looking for work. That means they are no longer counted as unemployed.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

Local unemployment rates went up in June, following suit with the state's unemployment rate.

The state's unemployment rate rose to 11.8 percent in June, from 11.7 percent in May of this year. Year-over-year, however, the rate is down. In June of 2010, the state unemployment rate sat at 12.4 percent.

Locally, the unemployment rate rose in both San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara counties.

In San Luis Obispo county, the unemployment rate rose to 10 percent in June. That's compared to 9 percent in May, and 9.3 percent in April of this year. There are 13,700 people looking for work in that county.

In Santa Barbara county, the unemployment rate increased to 8.9 percent. That's up from 8.1 percent in May and 8.5 percent in April. Some 19,900 people are unemployed in Santa Barbara county.

Those numbers are according to the California Economic Development Department.

In June, the national unemployment rate increased to 9.2 percent.

The California unemployment increased to 11.8 percent in June.

The California Economic Development Department says the rate increased from 11.7 percent in May. But that's still down year-over-year. In June 2010 the unemployment rate was 12.4 percent.

The national unemployment rate sits at 9.2 percent.

WASHINGTON (AP) - The number of Americans seeking unemployment benefits was mostly unchanged last week, evidence that the struggling economy isn't generating many jobs.

The Labor Department says unemployment benefit applications ticked down 1,000 to a seasonally adjusted 428,000. Applications have topped 400,000 for 12 straight weeks. Applications had fallen in February to 375,000, a level that signals sustainable job growth. They stayed below 400,000 for seven of nine weeks. But applications then surged to an eight-month high of 478,000 in April and have shown only modest improvement since that time.

The four-week average, a less volatile measure, has been stuck at about 426,000 for a month. Companies have pulled back on hiring in the face of high gas prices, which cut into consumer spending.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

WASHINGTON (AP) - More Americans applied for unemployment benefits last week, adding to evidence that the labor market is weakening.

The Labor Department says applications rose by 9,000 to a seasonally adjusted 429,000 last week. It was the second increase in three weeks and the biggest jump in a month.

Applications have been above 400,000 for 11 straight weeks. Applications had fallen in February to 375,000, a level that signals sustainable job growth. They stayed below 400,000 for seven of the next nine weeks. But then applications surged to an eight-month high of 478,000 in April and have shown only modest
improvement since that time.

Companies pulled back on hiring in the spring in the face of higher gas and food prices, which cut into consumer spending on other items.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

WASHINGTON (AP) - Fewer Americans applied for unemployment benefits last week, though applications remain above levels consistent with a healthy economy.

The Labor Department says unemployment benefit applications fell 16,000 to a seasonally adjusted 414,000, the second drop in three weeks. That's a positive sign that layoffs are slowing. Still, applications have been above 400,000 for 10 straight weeks, evidence that the job market is weak compared to earlier this year.

Applications had fallen in February to 375,000, a level that signals sustainable job growth. They stayed below 400,000 for seven of nine weeks. But applications surged in April to 478,000 - an eight-month high - and they have declined slowly since then. The four-week average, a less volatile measure, was unchanged.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

LOS ANGELES (AP) - California will receive nearly $1 billion from the federal government to help the unemployed.

The U.S. Department of Labor announced Wednesday that it will immediately release nearly $839 million in U.S. Recovery Act funding. The money can be used to pay for unemployment benefits, provide employment services or administer the state's unemployment insurance program.

In a statement, Gov. Jerry Brown says the money will help 26,000 unemployed Californians. California qualified for the funding by modernizing and expanding its unemployment insurance program. It's the most that any state has received under the modernization program.

California was hard-hit by the recession and while the unemployment rate has dropped recently it's still well above 11 percent.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

New data out Friday, shows local county and state unemployment numbers were down last month.

In San Luis Obispo County, the unemployment rate dropped to 9.4 percent in April, from 9.9 percent in March. Santa Barbara County saw a larger dip with an unemployment rate of 8.5 percent. That's down from 9.6 percent in March.

The state's unemployment rate dipped to 11.9 percent in April. It's the first dip below 12 percent since August 2009.

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) Officials: California unemployment rate dips to 11.9 percent, lowest point since August 2009

WASHINGTON (AP) - The number of people applying for unemployment benefits fell sharply for the second straight week, suggesting the job market is slowly recovering.

The Labor Department says applications for benefits dropped 29,000 last week to a seasonally adjusted 409,000. The four-week average, a less volatile measure, rose slightly to 439,000, the sixth straight increase.

The declines come after applications spiked last month, largely the result of temporary factors. The department reported two weeks ago that applications had surged to an eight-month high of 474,000.

That was nearly 100,000 above February's three-year low of 375,000 - a level typically consistent with sustainable job growth. Weekly applications peaked during the recession at 659,000.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

WASHINGTON (AP) - The number of people applying for unemployment benefits plummeted last week, reversing nearly all the sharp rise reported the previous week.

The Labor Department says that the number of people seeking benefits dropped 44,000 to a seasonally adjusted 434,000. That is the steepest weekly fall since February 2010.

The drop suggests that the increase of 47,000 reported two weeks ago was mostly due to temporary factors. The state of New York reported that applications jumped by more than 24,000 two weeks ago, because more school systems had spring break than usual. That
led to a spike in temporary layoffs.

Still, applications are far above the 375,000 level typically consistent with sustainable job growth. Weekly applications peaked during the recession at 659,000.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

WASHINGTON (AP) - The number of people applying for unemployment benefits surged last week to the highest level in eight months, a sign the job market may be weakening.

The Labor Department says applications rose by 43,000 to 474,000 in the week ended April 30, the third increase in four weeks. The four-week average, a less volatile measure, rose for the fourth straight week to 431,250.

A department spokesman blamed much of the increase on an unexpected spike in applications from New York, where more school systems than usual closed for spring break last week. That resulted in 25,000 layoffs. The department didn't anticipate the closures when making seasonal adjustments, the spokesman said.

Applications near 375,000 are typically consistent with sustainable job growth. Weekly applications peaked during the recession at 659,000.



(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

WASHINGTON (AP) - More people sought unemployment benefits last week, the second rise in three weeks, a sign the job market's recovery is slow and uneven.

The Labor Department says applications for unemployment benefits jumped 25,000 to a seasonally adjusted 429,000 for the week ending April 23. That's the highest total since late January.

The four-week average of applications, a less volatile measure, rose to 408,500, its third straight rise and the first time it has topped 400,000 in two months.

Applications near 375,000 are consistent with sustained job creation. Applications peaked during the recession at 659,000.

Some economists predicted that auto factory shutdowns, stemming from supply disruptions in Japan, would cause applications to rise. But a Labor Department analyst said only one state reported auto-related layoffs and the increase was modest.


(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

WASHINGTON (AP) - Fewer people applied for unemployment benefits last week, partly reversing a sharp jump in applications the previous week.

The Labor Department says the number of people applying for unemployment benefits dropped 13,000 to a seasonally adjusted 403,000 in the week ending April 16. The decline comes after applications rose 31,000 a week earlier.

Applications near 375,000 are consistent with sustainable job growth. Applications peaked during the recession at 659,000. The four-week average, a less volatile measure, rose for the second straight week to 399,000. That's about 10,000 higher than it was a month ago.

The average has fallen about 7 percent since late January, but applications have plateaued in recent weeks. Most economists expect applications to continue declining as the economy improves. Businesses have stepped up hiring in recent months.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

WASHINGTON (AP) - The unemployment rate fell in two-thirds of the nation's states last month, the latest evidence that the strengthening economy is encouraging many employers to boost hiring.

The Labor Department says the unemployment rate dropped in 34 states in March. That's the largest number of states to record a decline since June. The rate rose in seven states and was unchanged in nine and Washington, D.C.

Employers hired more workers in 38 states. A government survey of employer payrolls finds only 12 states plus Washington, D.C. lost jobs last month, the fewest since October.

Nationally, the unemployment rate fell in March to a two-year low of 8.8 percent, and private employers added more than 200,000 jobs for the second consecutive month.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

Our state unemployment rate fell to 12 percent last month, from 12.4 percent in February. But the number of jobs available actually fell, too.

The number of jobs in California declined by more than 11,000 from February to March, with only four out of 11 industries adding jobs. The state has added about 188,000 jobs since March of last year.

In San Luis Obispo County, the jobless rate actually went up in March compared to February. It now stands at 9.9 percent, up from 9.8 percent in February. Some 13,600 people are without jobs in SLO Co.

In Santa Barbara County, the unemployment rate saw no change from February to March at 9.6 percent. However, there are about 100 more people without work compared to February, with 21,000 people looking for jobs.

NEW YORK (AP) - Stocks are sliding in midday trading after claims for unemployment benefits rose unexpectedly.

The Labor Department said Thursday that 412,000 people applied for unemployment benefits last week. It was the first rise in three weeks. Economists expected claims to fall.

Applications for benefits peaked at 659,000 during the recession and have dropped by roughly 6 percent in the past four months.

Ford Motor Co. fell 2 percent. The car maker announced that it was expanding its recall of its F-150 pickup truck because of a problem with air bags.

The Dow Jones industrial average is down 58 points, or 0.5 percent, to 12,214. The S&P 500 index is down 6, also 0.5 percent, to 1,307. The Nasdaq composite is down 18, or 0.7 percent, to 2,743.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

WASHINGTON (AP) - More people applied for unemployment benefits last week, the first increase in three weeks. Still, the broader trend points to a slowly healing jobs market.

The government says applications for unemployment benefits rose 27,000 to a seasonally adjusted 412,000 for the week ended April 9. That left applications at their highest point since mid-February. Applications near 375,000 are consistent with a sustained increase in hiring. Applications peaked during the recession at 659,000.

The four-week average of applications, a less volatile measure, rose to 395,750. Applications have dropped by about 6 percent over the past two months.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

WASHINGTON (AP) - Fewer people applied for unemployment benefits last week, a sign that layoffs are dropping and employers may be hiring more workers.

The Labor Department says the number of people seeking benefits dropped 10,000 to 382,000 in the week ending April 2. That's the third drop in four weeks. The four-week average of applications, a less volatile measure, declined to 389,500.

Applications near 375,000 are consistent with a sustained increase in hiring. Applications, which reflect the pace of
layoffs, peaked during the recession at 659,000.

The number of people seeking benefits has fallen for several months. The four-week average has dropped by 28,750, or nearly 7 percent, in the past eight weeks. At the same time, businesses are stepping up hiring.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

WASHINGTON (AP) - The unemployment rate fell to a two-year low of 8.8 percent in March and companies added workers at the fastest two-month pace since before the recession began.

The Labor Department says the economy added 216,000 new jobs last month, offsetting layoffs a local governments. Factories, retailers, education, health care and an array of professional and financial services expanded payrolls. Private employers, the backbone of the economy, drove nearly all of the gains. They added 230,000 jobs last month, on top of 240,000 in February. It was the first time private hiring topped 200,000 in back-to-back months since 2006 - more than a year before the recession started.

The unemployment rate dipped from 8.9 percent in February to 8.8 percent in March. The rate has fallen a full percentage point over the last four months, the sharpest drop since 1983.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

Fewer people were unemployed in February on the Central Coast over January, according to the Employment Development Department.

In San Luis Obispo County, February's unemployment rate was 9.8%. That's down from 10.3% in January. It's also down from February 2010, when the rate was 10.3%.

In Santa Barbara County, unemployment was at 9.6% last month. In January, it was 10%. In February 2010, the unemployment rate was 10.1%.

Both counties follow a state-wide trend. California's overall unemployment rate was 12.2% last month, down from 12.4% in January.

California's unemployment rate dipped in January, mirroring a national trend.

The California Employment Development Department (EDD) Friday released its February jobless report. Last month, the state unemployment rate dropped to 12.2 percent. That's down from 12.4 percent in January 2011.

The EDD says California businesses added 96,500 in February. The year-over-year change shows an increase of 196,300 jobs, up 1.4 percent.

WASHINGTON (AP) - The number of people seeking unemployment benefits rose last week, only the second increase in six weeks.

The Labor Department says applications rose by 26,000 to a
seasonally adjusted 397,000 during the week ended March 5. The rise comes after applications fell to their lowest level in nearly three years in the previous week. The latest report covers the week after the Presidents' Day
holiday, when many government offices were closed.

Applications usually rise in weeks following holiday-shortened weeks. Most economists expect applications will continue to decline as the economy improves.

Applications below 425,000 signal modest job growth. But they need to fall consistently below 375,000 to signal a decline in the unemployment rate. Unemployment benefit applications peaked during the recession at 651,000.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

The first unemployment figures for 2011 are now in, and it has gone up both statewide and here on the Central Coast. California's unemployment rose slightly in January from 12.5 percent to 12.7 percent. San Luis Obispo County reported 10.3 percent unemployment in January, compared to 10.0 percent in December. Santa Barbara County also went up from 9.7 percent in December to 10.1 percent in January.

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) California's unemployment rate has dipped slightly but still remains far higher than the national average.

The state Employment Development Department on Friday reported that California's jobless rate was 12.4 percent in January. That was down slightly from 12.5 percent in December.

The state's jobless rate has been at or above 12 percent for 17 months. Also Friday, the U.S. Labor Department reported that the national unemployment rate had fallen to 8.9 percent, the lowest level since April 2009.

California added 12,500 nonfarm jobs in January, bringing the state's total to nearly 14 million. Gains were seen in five of 11 sectors surveyed, including construction, manufacturing and government.

Education and financial, health and business services reported job losses. About 2.2 million Californians remain out of work still.

NEW YORK (AP) - Stocks are jumping higher after an unexpected drop in new applications for unemployment benefits and higher February sales reports from retailers.

The Labor Department said Thursday that first-time claims for unemployment insurance fell to their lowest level since May 2008. Separately, the Institute of Supply Management reported that hiring by service companies rose to its highest level since April 2006.

Retailers Limited Brands Inc., Macy's and Nordstrom Inc. all reported sales gains.

The Dow Jones industrial average is up 158 points, or 1.3 percent, to 12,225 in midday trading. The S&P 500 is up 17, or 1.3 percent, to 1,326. The Nasdaq composite is up 44, or 1.6 percent, to 2,792.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

WASHINGTON (AP) - The number of people requesting unemployment benefits last week plunged to a nearly three-year low, bolstering hopes that companies will hire more this year.

The government says applications for unemployment benefits fell by 20,000 to a seasonally adjusted 368,000. It was the third decline in the last four weeks. Applications are now at their lowest level since late May 2008.

Applications below 425,000 tend to signal modest job growth. But they would need to dip consistently to 375,000 or below to indicate a significant decline in the unemployment rate. Applications for benefits peaked during the recession at 651,000.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

WASHINGTON (AP) - More people applied for unemployment benefits last week, one week after claims had fallen to the lowest level in nearly three years.

The Labor Department says 410,000 people sought unemployment assistance last week, a jump of 25,000 from the previous week. The rise was much larger than economists had expected.

Applications are well below their peak of 651,000, reached in March 2009, when the economy was in the depths of the recession. Applications below 425,00 are viewed as a signal of modest job growth but they would need to dip consistently to 375,000 or below to indicate a significant and steady decline in the unemployment rate.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

WASHINGTON (AP) - The number of people applying for unemployment benefits plunged last week to the lowest level in nearly three years, boosting hopes that companies will step up hiring this year as the economy strengthens.

Applications sank by a seasonally adjusted 36,000 to 383,000,
the lowest point since early July 2008. Unemployment applications reflect the level of layoffs, but also
can indicate whether companies are willing to hire.

Applications below 425,000 tend to signal modest job growth. But they would need to dip consistently to 375,000 or below to indicate a significant and steady decline in the unemployment rate.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

Joblessness is a reality for millions of Americans and it affects more than just household finances.

A recent USA Today gallup poll shows one in four people who are unemployed report major problems in their relationships. Nearly half have had to deal with depression. One in five say they're so discouraged, they're no longer actively looking for work.

Cayucos resident David Buckland says he's all too familiar with the hopeless feelings, but with new tools, he's working through the unemployment blues.

In the final part of our special a local expert explains how, you, too can keep your head up in these uncertain times.

David Buckland of Cayucos has been in and out of the workforce for years. The military veteran struggles with his job search, his finances, and his health. Doctors have operated on his heart twice.

"So here I am 12 years later after my second surgery and I've just been in survival mode," and Buckland says he says he's not getting any younger. "I keep looking worse and worse on paper, and of course, now the economy."

Buckland says physical activity can be extremely painful but he's ready to take any job he can get. He was laid off in September 2009 and is barely scraping by on monthly unemployment checks. "The man part of me that just wants to provide, it's like ok, I will just go out there and do what I have to."

He says years of setbacks have taken a toll on his confidence, and some days, hope is hard to come by. "It's frustrating that suddenly it's like nobody wants you."

Dr. Beverly Ford is a psychologist who specializes in treating the unemployed. She says Buckland's feelings of sadness and frustration are normal, but giving into negative feelings can be dangerous.

"Sadness and some of the change that happens for individuals can be ongoing, and when it gets to be ongoing, then we look at that as a possible concern for depression," said Dr. Ford.

Dr. Ford points out that losing a job means losing a routine, and that can be very scary for someone used to working.

It often times sends people like Buckland into a tailspin.

"Now they have nothing but time off, so their routine is broken a little bit," she said.

Buckland knows the feeling. "You can't sleep and then your sleep cycle gets messed up, and the next thing you know, you're waking up at noon and two in the afternoon."

Dr. Ford suggests sticking to a schedule. Set your alarm clock, shower every morning, and make your job finding a job.

"Routine is so important," said Dr. Ford. "Make it your friend if you're going through these kinds of challenges."

Dr. Ford also reminds her patients to eat well, and eat regularly. "You're going to find now that you're home, you're going to be able to cook and it won't be so much on the run kind of cooking," she said. "You'll save money that way, which is a good part of it too and you may be finding that you're eating things that you've missed out on for a while."

It may be tough, but Dr. Ford says staying positive is essential. Surround yourself with positive people, watch positive TV, and take notice of everything that is right in your life.

Buckland says it's something he reminds himself of everyday. "In spite of how much we've struggled with finances, health, I still have a marriage, 36 years, I've got incredible children. I have hope."

When it comes to family, Dr. Ford says parents should always include everyone in the conversation. Children, she says, are resilient. If you can't afford to pay for one of their activities, let them know why.

"You might be surprised that kids will say you know, I didn't really like doing that or I think I'll try this, and that's within the budget and so everyone wins that way," said Dr. Ford.

If there's no money in the budget for family outings, schedule time with your kids to have fun at home. Most importantly, Dr. Ford says know that things will get better.

"The main thing right now is for everyone to remember we're all kind of going through this in our own special way, as to how we're doing things, and it's going to turn around, it always has in america," said Dr. Ford. "Pull together and don't be afraid to ask for help."

"Learn from the past, hope for the future, and make today as profitable as I can because I don't know what tomorrow will bring," said Buckland.

Dr. Ford says if you need professional help getting through these tough times and can't afford it, there are several free resources on the Central Coast. You can dial 211 for more information. She also says many insurance companies cover the cost of counseling. We've made her coping strategies and additional resources available here.

Buckland says he's making positive steps toward changing his life since doing this story with KSBY.

In a letter of thanks, Buckland said the following:

"The bottom line for me is that you have collectively validated my efforts to remain a productive citizen despite the limitations of past injuries and heart surgeries. I hope to find a career that accommodates those challenges and allows me to continue contributing to society. After operating in survival mode for so many years, I hope you can understand my excitement & hope for the future."

NEW YORK (AP) - Stocks are rising modestly in early trading after a mixed employment report said that the unemployment rate fell last month but that new jobs remain scarce.

The government said unemployment in January dropped to 9.0 percent from 9.4 percent in December. But the report said that only 36,000 new jobs were created, the fewest in four months.

Before the market opened, health insurer Aetna said its fourth quarter revenues were higher than analysts expected. Its shares jumped 13 percent.

The Dow Jones industrial average is up 15 points, or 0.1 percent, to 12,075. The S&P 500 is up 2, or 0.1 percent, to 1,309. The Nasdaq composite index is up 5, or 0.2 percent, to 2,759.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

WASHINGTON (AP) - The unemployment rate dropped sharply last month to 9 percent, the lowest level in nearly two years. But the economy generated only 36,000 net new jobs, the fewest in four months.

The January report illustrates how job growth remains the
economy's weakest spot, even as other economic indicators point to a recovery that is strengthening.

Friday's report offered a conflicting picture on hiring.
Unemployment fell because the Labor Department's household survey determined that more than a half-million people without jobs found work. The department conducts a separate survey of businesses, which showed tepid job creation. The two surveys sometimes diverge.

Severe winter weather likely reduced the number of jobs created. Harsh snowstorms last month cut into construction employment, which fell by 32,000, the most since May.

In one bright spot, manufacturing added 49,000 jobs, the most since August 1998.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

WASHINGTON (AP) - The number of people applying for unemployment benefits rose sharply last week as snowstorms in some parts of the country forced companies to lay off workers.

Applications surged by a seasonally adjusted 51,000 to 454,000, the highest level since late October. However, much of the increase was blamed on bad weather in four
Southern states. That caused some companies to temporarily shut down, a government analyst says.

Snowstorms several weeks ago had kept people from filing claims. Requests for unemployment benefits fell sharply in the previous week to 403,000.

Applications below 425,000 tend to signal modest job growth. But they would need to dip consistently to 375,000 or below to indicate a significant decline in the unemployment rate.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

WASHINGTON (AP) - The unemployment rate rose in 20 states last month as employers in most states shed jobs.

The Labor Department says the unemployment rate rose in 20
states and fell in 15. It was unchanged in another 15 states. That's nearly the same as in November, when the rate rose in 21 states, fell in 15 and was the same in 14.

The report is evidence that the job market is barely improving even as the economy grows. Most economists expect hiring to pick up this year, even though the unemployment rate will likely remain high.

Employers in most states didn't add any net new jobs last month. The number of jobs on employer payrolls fell in 35 states in December, the department said. Only 15 states reported gains.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

One of the highest unemployment rates in our area continues to be in the city of Lompoc.

The latest unemployment figure for Lompoc is 16.5 percent. Amy Gray, job seeker, said, "I can understand, Lompoc is not an easy place to find a job." It's up .5 percentage points from the month earlier. Gray said, "I was laid off from a job because of the economy a year and a half ago. For me, it's very frustrating."

It's frustrating news for jobs seekers as well as for business owners such as Steve Byork. His family has owned Sissy's Uptown Cafe in Lompoc since 2002. Byork said, "If people aren't working they're obviously not going out to eat." Denny Anderson, Lompoc Valley Chamber of Commerce CEO and President, said, "We're working very hard trying to bring new economic opportunity into the community."

The chamber pointed to Walmart's expansion plan which is now closer to becoming a reality. It would create 85 full and part time jobs with competitive pay and benefits. There's also the California Space Center project which is expected to be built as part of Vandenberg Air Force Base. It's estimated to create almost 3,000 jobs.

Also in the works, a public safety training complex on Allan Hancock College in Lompoc. The $46 million project is expected to create numerous construction jobs. Byork said, "I just get chills up my spine. The public safety academy and the space center could just transform the town."

The latest unemployment figures for San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara Counties and are mixed. In Santa Barbara County, unemployment was 9.5 percent for December of 2010. That's up from November's 9.2 percent. In San Luis Obispo County, unemployment was at 9.7 percent. It slightly improved from 9.9 percent in November.

Statewide, the unemployment average increased to 12.5 percent in December. Nationally, the unemployment rate decreased in December to 9.4 percent.

The latest unemployment figures show the city of Lompoc's rate has increased to 16.5 percent making it the highest rate in the county.

Overall, the unemployment rate is up for Santa Barbara County in December 2010 but down in San Luis Obispo County.

In Santa Barbara County, the rate was 9.5 percent which is up from 9.2 percent in November.

For San Luis Obispo County, unemployment was at 9.7 percent, down from 9.9 percent in November.

But there is some good news, more jobs are in the way to the Lompoc area.

Watch KSBY News at 5 and 6 for more on this story.

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) - California's unemployment rate ticked up by one-tenth of a percentage point in December, to 12.5 percent.

That means the state's monthly jobless rate remained above 12 percent for all of 2010. Meanwhile, the national unemployment rate decreased in December to 9.4 percent.

The report released Friday by the state Employment Development Department said the number of Californians holding jobs dropped 25,000 from November. The number of jobless Californians rose to nearly 2.27 million, an increase of 3,000 from November.

A survey of California businesses shows the state added 4,900 nonfarm jobs last month, following a gain of 30,500 in November.

The leisure and hospitality industry added 9,300 jobs, the biggest increase for the month. Government jobs posted the largest decline.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) California's unemployment rate ticked up by one-tenth of a percentage point in December, to 12.5 percent.

That means the state's monthly jobless rate remained above 12 percent for all of 2010. Meanwhile, the national unemployment rate decreased in December to 9.4 percent.

The report released Friday by the state Employment Development Department said the number of Californians holding jobs dropped 25,000 from November. The number of jobless Californians rose to nearly 2.27 million, an increase of 3,000 from November.

A survey of California businesses shows the state added 4,900 nonfarm jobs last month, following a gain of 30,500 in November.

The leisure and hospitality industry added 9,300 jobs, the biggest increase for the month. Government jobs posted the largest decline.

NEW YORK (AP) - Stocks are mixed in midday trading after the government reported that more people applied for unemployment benefits last week.

The Labor Department said the number of people applying for unemployment for the first time rose 35,000 from the week before. It was the highest level since October.

A decline in the dollar is limiting stock losses Wednesday. The dollar lost 1.2 percent against an index of six currencies after successful bond auctions by Spain and Italy pushed the euro higher. The dollar's slide helps U.S. companies that rely on exports.

The Dow Jones industrial average is down 10, or 0.1 percent, to 11,745 in midday trading. The S&P 500 is up 1, or less than 0.1 percent, to 1,286. The Nasdaq is up 4, or 0.2 percent, to 2,742.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

WASHINGTON (AP) - More people applied for unemployment benefits last week, one week after applications fell to their lowest level in more than two years.

The Labor Department says applications rose by 18,000 to a
seasonally adjusted 409,000 in the week ending Jan. 1. Applications fell to 391,000 in the previous week, the lowest point since July 2008.

Fewer than 425,000 people seeking unemployment benefits signals modest job growth. But economists say applications need to fall consistently to 375,000 or below to substantially bring down the unemployment rate. Applications for unemployment benefits peaked during the recession at 651,000 in March 2009.

Last week's increase isn't enough to reverse the downward trend. The four-week average, a less-volatile measure, fell to 410,750, its lowest level since late July 2008.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

WASHINGTON (AP) - The number of people applying for unemployment benefits fell sharply last week, a positive sign that the job market is slowly improving.

The Labor Department says applications dropped by 34,000 to 388,000, the lowest number since the week of July 12, 2008. The level of applications has either fallen or remained unchanged in five of the past six weeks.

Unemployment applications below 425,000 signal modest job
growth. But economists say applications need to fall to 375,000 or below to indicate a significant decline in unemployment. Applications for unemployment benefits peaked during the recession at 651,000 in March 2009.

The level of applications can be particularly volatile during the holidays. But a department analyst said there were no unusual factors affecting the report.

(Copyright 2010 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

WASHINGTON (AP) - Slightly fewer people applied for unemployment benefits last week, the second drop in three weeks. That's a sign the job market is slowly healing.

The Labor Department says the number of people seeking benefits edged down by 3,000 to a seasonally adjusted 420,000 in the week that ended Dec. 18.

Weekly unemployment applications at around 425,000 signal modest job growth. But economists say applications would need to dip consistently to 375,000 or below to indicate a significant decline in unemployment.

Weekly applications peaked during the recession at 651,000 in March 2009. The four-week average, a less volatile measure, rose slightly to 426,000. The average had fallen for six straight weeks to the lowest level in more than two years.

(Copyright 2010 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

WASHINGTON (AP) - Unemployment rates rose in 21 states last month, the most number to report an increase since August. The report is a reminder of the job market's struggle to rebound even as the economy is improving.

The Labor Department says unemployment rates fell in 15 states in November and remained the same in 14 states. That's the fewest to see a drop in unemployment since August.

Georgia and Idaho endured the largest increases in unemployment. Georgia's rate rose to 10.1 percent from 9.8 percent. Idaho's jumped to 9.4 percent from 9.1 percent.

Michigan and Pennsylvania saw the biggest declines in unemployment last month. Michigan's rate fell to 12.4 percent from 12.8 percent. Pennsylvania's declined to 8.6 percent from 8.8 percent.

(Copyright 2010 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

WASHINGTON (AP) - Two test votes are scheduled tomorrow in the Senate on whether tax cuts expiring at the end of the year should be extended. But gridlock is the likely outcome, leaving the issue unresolved until next week.

Incoming House Speaker John Boehner is vowing that
Republicans will show the way toward extending tax cuts in 2011 if the outgoing Democrats fail to do it sooner.

Boehner made his comment as partisan wrangling in the Senate slows attempts to pass legislation ensuring that tax cuts enacted in 2001 and 2003 don't expire.

The White House has signaled that President Barack Obama is prepared to sign a bill extending tax cuts at all levels, as Republicans want. But Democrats want the bill to include an extension of unemployment benefits for the long-term unemployed and renewal of tax provisions benefiting college students and companies that hire the jobless and lower- and middle-income workers.

(Copyright 2010 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

NEW YORK (AP) - An unexpected rise in the U.S. unemployment rate is pushing stocks down as investors move money into safer assets.

The government reported that the unemployment rate climbed to 9.8 percent in November, a seven-month high. That's up from 9.6 percent the previous month. Employers added 39,000 jobs. Economists had forecast a gain of 145,000.

The Dow Jones industrial average is down 25, or 0.2 percent, to 11,337.

The S&P 500 index is down 4, or 0.3 percent, to 1,217. The Nasdaq composite index is off 1.51, or 0.1 percent, to 2,577.

The yield on the 10-year Treasury note is down to 2.96 percent from 3.00 percent late Thursday. That yield helps set interest rates on many loans, including home mortgages.

(Copyright 2010 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

WASHINGTON (AP) - More Americans signed up for unemployment benefits last week, but the broader trend in layoffs points to a slowly healing jobs market.

The Labor Department says new claims for unemployment aid rose last week by a seasonally adjusted 26,000 to 436,000. The previous week's claims were revised up slightly to show applications had tumbled by 31,000 to 410,000.

The figures are often volatile during the weeks around the Veteran's Day and Thanksgiving holidays. Even so, the longer-term trend has shown a downward drift.

The four-week moving average of claims, which smooths
volatility, fell to 431,000 last week, a two-year low.

(Copyright 2010 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

If looking for a job wasn't hard enough, here's even more discouraging news for some. Extended unemployment benefits start running out Wednesday for nearly two million Americans.

According to the U.S. Department of Labor, Californians will be hit the hardest. Around 450,000 will be affected. Those unemployed were eligible for up to 99 weeks of benefits.

The federal unemployment benefits have been a lifesaver for some. Santa Maria resident, Pat Tobin, has been looking for a job for more than a year. He said, "Thank God for that because I don't know where I'd be, living in a car or something." But now that it's being cut off, he's concerned how he's going to survive. Tobin said, "I think there's going to be a lot of homeless people that weren't homeless before." Jeff Bangs is an Orcutt resident who has been unemployed for seven months. He has an 11-year-old daughter. Bangs said, "We'll see how much worse it can get."

The state provides 26 weeks of unemployment benefits. Then, there was the potential to get an additional 73 weeks of unemployment through the federal government. But unless Congress changes its mind, those on the federal extension program will lose their benefits. Bangs said, "Social Services is going to get flooded over. It's going to be a big pull on our country."

The good news is there are options for people who have exhausted their benefits. There's food stamps, cash assistance for families with children and health care coverage for certain middle and low income people. Bangs said, "I'm going through that right now actually." In the meantime, folks continue to search for jobs but are worried. Tobin said, "It's scary. I don't know what a lot of people are going to do."

So why are the federal unemployment benefits ending? Opponents say fiscal responsibility should come first. Some House and Senate leaders have said they're open to extending benefits, but not if it means adding to the $13.8 trillion national debt. The Federal Reserve expects the unemployment rate to hover around nine percent next year.

Extended unemployment benefits for nearly two million Americans start running out on Wednesday and it's going to hit our state hard.

According to the United States Department of Labor, Californians will be hit the hardest.

Around 450,000 will be affected.

Those unemployed were eligible for up to 99 weeks of benefits.

KSBY News Reporter Monica Quintero will have a live report from Santa Maria to explain how local families are coping.

Extended unemployment benefits start running out on Wednesday for an estimated two million Americans and it's expected to hit our state hard.

According to the Huffington Post, California has more residents at risk of losing unemployment benefits than 36 other states and Washington D.C. Combined.

How will this affect you if you're on employment? Will there be other state unemployment benefits when the federal ones end?

Watch KSBY News at 5 and 6 as we dig deep to answer some questions that can help you and your family during these tough times.

WASHINGTON (AP) - The number of people applying for unemployment benefits fell sharply last week to the lowest level since July 2008, a hopeful sign that improvement in the job market is accelerating.

The Labor Department says that weekly unemployment claims
dropped by 34,000 to a seasonally adjusted 407,000 in the week ending Nov. 20. Wall Street analysts expected a much smaller drop.

A Labor Department analyst says weekly claims are volatile
during the week between the Veteran's Day and Thanksgiving
holidays. A key question is whether claims will remain this low in future weeks, or bounce back.

(Copyright 2010 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

Santa Barbara County's unemployment numbers for October show signs of improvement.

According to the monthly information released on Friday by the state Employment Development Department (EDD), they dropped to 8.7 percent which is down .3 percent from September.

The highest unemployment rates for Santa Barbara County's cities continues to be Lompoc at 15.3 percent down from September's 15.8 percent.

Guadalupe is at 14.8 percent also down from the 15.3 percent recorded for September.

Meanwhile, Santa Maria is at 13.5 percent which is down from 14.0 percent.

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) - Officials say California's
unemployment rate remained steady at 12.4 percent over the past month.

The state's Employment Development Department released the
latest jobless numbers Friday. The data shows that the unemployment rate has now held at or above 12 percent for 15 months.

California saw a net gain of 39,000 non-farm jobs in October, as the state experienced job growth in eight categories. The area of professional and business services posted the biggest gains.

The financial industry suffered the most job losses, while
mining, logging and information jobs also were on the decline.

California's unemployment rate continues to be higher than the national average, which also held steady at 9.6 percent between September and October.

(Copyright 2010 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

Tuesday, the California Economic Development Department released the state's latest unemployment report. It shows the jobless rate went unchanged, at 12.4 percent in October. Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger reacts to the news:

"California continues to experience a slow recovery, but I am proud that we passed a budget that held the line on tax increases and pleased that the California voters upheld vital employment incentives on the November ballot. These actions will help the private sector expand and hire, which will increase revenue and bolster California's economy. Going forward, we must remember that raising taxes on employers and consumers will only hurt job growth. That is why in the upcoming Special Session, I will present a proposal to bridge the current-year budget gap without any tax increases, and I encourage the legislature and Governor-Elect Jerry Brown to follow that lead as they move forward."

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) - Officials say California's unemployment rate remained steady at 12.4 percent over the past month.

The state's Employment Development Department released the latest jobless numbers Friday. The data shows that the unemployment rate has now held at or above 12 percent for 15 months.

California saw a net gain of 39,000 non-farm jobs in October, as the state experienced job growth in eight categories. The area of professional and business services posted the biggest gains.

The financial industry suffered the most job losses, while mining, logging and information jobs also were on the decline.

California's unemployment rate continues to be higher than the national average, which also held steady at 9.6 percent between September and October.

(Copyright 2010 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) Officials say California's unemployment rate remained steady at 12.4 percent over the past month.

The state's Employment Development Department released the latest jobless numbers Friday. The data shows that the unemployment rate has now held at or above 12 percent for 15 months.

California saw a net gain of 39,000 non-farm jobs in October, as the state experienced job growth in eight categories. The area of professional and business services posted the biggest gains.

The financial industry suffered the most job losses, while mining, logging and information jobs also were on the decline.

California's unemployment rate continues to be higher than the national average, which also held steady at 9.6 percent between September and October.

LOS ANGELES (AP) - With one in every eight workers unemployed and empty state coffers, California is borrowing billions of dollars from the federal government to pay unemployment insurance.

The Los Angeles Times reports that the state owes $8.6 billion already, and will have to come up with a $362-million payment to Washington by the end of next September.

The continued borrowing means federal unemployment insurance taxes are going to increase, upping the annual payroll costs $21 a year per worker.

California tops the list of 32 states that have borrowed a total of $41 billion to pay claims.

The state took out its first loan from the federal government early last year, to deal with rising payment of benefits and number of claims.

---

Information from: Los Angeles Times, http://www.latimes.com

(Copyright 2010 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

LOS ANGELES (AP) With one in every eight workers unemployed and empty state coffers, California is borrowing billions of dollars from the federal government to pay unemployment insurance.

The Los Angeles Times reports that the state owes $8.6 billion already, and will have to come up with a $362-million payment to Washington by the end of next September.

The continued borrowing means federal unemployment insurance taxes are going to increase, upping the annual payroll costs $21 a year per worker.

California tops the list of 32 states that have borrowed a total of $41 billion to pay claims.

The state took out its first loan from the federal government early last year, to deal with rising payment of benefits and number of claims.

___

Information from: Los Angeles Times, http://www.latimes.com

Millions turn out for Election Day every year, but some voters say this one is a little different.

High unemployment and our struggling economy overall are prompting some people to vote for the first time in years.

"You know, I just want my opinion to mean something," said Barbara Furia, a San Luis Obispo voter.

Some are long-time voters.

"I never miss an election," said Jeri Carroll, a San Luis Obispo voter.

Others haven't cast a ballot in thirty years.

"I hadn't voted since Ronald Reagan," said Dane Senser, another voter in San Luis Obispo.

They all have a different opinion when they walk in the voting booth, but they have the same opportunity to voice it.

"For the first time in my life, I had to file unemployment," Senser said. "And my extension runs out, and I still haven't found a job. And so, I'm thinking, 'Wait a minute. Something's not right.'"

Senser says he hasn't voted since 1980 but showed up to vote at 6 a.m.

He says he wasn't the first person in line, though.

That spot went to a woman, who was voting for the first time in her life at 52.

"It inspired me to vote the rest of my life no matter what happens," Seder said. "Because if i'm not voting, then I really shouldn't be complaining."

Anxiety and pessism were found at the polls along with patriotism.

"Basically, what I'm doing is I'm voting the least of the worst," said Theresa Mortilla, a San Luis Obispo voter.

Still, one voice still means one vote--and that's motivation enough for these voters.

It's Election Day indeed, one with ramifications for years to come.

Many voters we talked to say the struggling economy is a huge factor in their voting decision.

The national unemployment is more than 9%.

WASHINGTON (AP) A new Labor Department reports offers fresh evidence that California's job market is struggling to overcome a relentless foreclosure crisis.

Of the 12 metro areas to log jobless rates of at least 15 percent last month, nine were in California.

The Riverside region registered the highest unemployment rate among the nation's 49 largest metro areas, with 14.8 percent. And Modesto, which has the nation's second-highest foreclosure rate, saw its jobless rate climb to 16.4 percent from 15.3 percent a year earlier.

Overall, California's unemployment rate rose to 12.4 percent in August, compared to 12 percent the same month last year.

Moody's Analytics economist Steve Cochrane says the housing slump is likely to continue holding back consumer spending and hiring in many Western states.

The metro report does not adjust its figures to take into account seasonal trends, which can lead to more volatile reports from month to month.

California's unemployment rate rose by a bit in August, to 12.4 percent from 12.3 percent in July. Now Governor Schwarzenegger is responding to the report, released this morning:

"The latest job numbers show that Californians are continuing to suffer from slow job growth, and things will only improve when there is strong hiring in the private sector. That is the number one reason I went on my trade mission - to drum up support for California's products and services and create jobs.

"Another surefire way to boost employment is to make it easier for businesses to invest and hire. The legislature has yet to take action on parts of the California Jobs Initiative I announced in my State of the State address, and I urge them to step up for our economy and pass the hiring incentives, tort reform and streamlined regulations I proposed.

"We must also ensure that burdens are not increased on businesses. Private jobs are California's ticket to recovery, and increasing taxes will only discourage businesses from hiring."

The high unemployment rate in the City of Guadalupe has city leaders taking action.

The latest unemployment figures show it's at 15 percent.

This week, city council approved a new job creation rebate program.

It will remain available for the next three years or until the unemployment rate in Guadalupe is reduced to 7 percent.

KSBY News Reporter Monica Quintero explains how it works on KSBY News at 5 and 6.

More jobs were lost in the state of California last month.

The California Employment Development Department released its monthly unemployment report Friday, revealing that the state's unemployment rate increased to 12.4 percent in the month of August. In July, the state's jobless rate was 12.3 percent. EDD officials say about 33,500 jobs were lost.

The U.S. unemployment stands at 9.6 percent.

NEW YORK (AP) - Investors are selling stocks even after the latest unemployment report beat expectations.

Major indexes are falling modestly Thursday, snapping a recent trend where investors have jumped into the market following reports that top economists' forecasts. The Labor Department says first-time claims for unemployment benefits fell to a two-month low, but still remain at levels that indicate economic growth is
sluggish.

Stocks are also approaching the high end of their recent trading range, which could be putting a lid on the market's September rally.

The Dow Jones industrial average is down 19, or 0.2 percent, at 10,554. The S&P 500 is down 5, or 0.4 percent, at 1,121, while the Nasdaq composite is down 8, or 0.4 percent, at 2,293.

(Copyright 2010 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

Guadalupe City Council unanimously approved a job creation rebate program on Tuesday night.

It would assist business owners in Guadalupe to create new local jobs by providing rebates for a percentage of permit fees.

The program will be available for the next three years or until the unemployment rate in Guadalupe is reduced to 7-percent.

Currently, the Mayor of Guadalupe says the unemployment rate is 15.5-percent.

Tune into KSBY News at 5 and 6 for more on this story.

Guadalupe City Council will be considering a job creation rebate program on Tuesday night.

It would assist business owners in Guadalupe to create new local jobs by providing rebates for a percentage of permit fees.

If approved by city council, the program will be available for the next three years or until the unemployment rate in Guadalupe is reduced to 7-percent.

Currently, the Mayor of Guadalupe says the unemployment rate is 15.5-percent.

Tune into KSBY News at 5 and 6 for more on this story.

WASHINGTON (AP) - The unemployment rate rose in August for the first time in four months as weak hiring by private employers wasn't enough to keep pace with a large increase in the number of people looking for work.

The Labor Department says companies added a net total 67,000 new jobs last month, down from July's upwardly revised total of 107,000. Wall Street analysts expected a smaller gain, according to Thomson Reuters.

Overall, the economy lost 54,000 jobs as 114,000 temporary census positions came to an end. State and local governments shed 10,000 positions. The jobless rate rose to 9.6 percent from 9.5 percent in July.

More than a half-million Americans resumed their job searches in August, which drove up the jobless rate. When the unemployed stop looking for work, they are no longer counted in the jobless rate.

(Copyright 2010 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger is giving his two cents about the release of the state's unemployment report for the month of July. He says:

"In order for California to experience a full recovery, there must be robust hiring in the private sector. That is why I have been so adamant in my opposition to tax increases - both because additional burdens on employers will stymie growth and because we shouldn't penalize private sector employment in order to subsidize public sector wages and retirement benefits. Furthermore, as days continue to pass without a budget, the state gets closer to issuing IOUs and is already holding up state bond funding for construction projects - threatening thousands of California jobs. This is unacceptable. The legislature must pass a responsible budget without tax increases and with meaningful pension and budget reforms that will keep government running and help put an end to the budget rollercoaster."

New numbers out Friday morning show California's unemployment rate held steady in July.

The California Employment Development Department says our state lost about 9,400 jobs last month, but the unemployment rate still stands at 12.3 percent. The department says job losses were primarily in government sectors, pointing to most of the temporary Census jobs.

The CEDD says nonfarm jobs totaled 13,874,900 in July. The data is based on a survey of 42,000 California businesses.

To give you some perspective, the nation's unemployment rate also went unchanged in July. It stands at 9.5 percent.

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) - Republican Senate candidate Carly Fiorina has shifted her position on extending unemployment benefits.

In an interview with San Francisco's KGO-AM radio Tuesday, Fiorina said she would probably break from her party and support extending jobless benefits.

That's different from earlier this month when the former Hewlett Packard chief executive said she opposed the extension because it would worsen the national deficit.

Democratic Sen. Barbara Boxer had been using Fiorina's position to attack her as out of touch with average workers.

Senate Democrats on Tuesday broke through a GOP filibuster in Washington, D.C., in an effort to extend jobless benefits to 2.5 million Americans.

Fiorina spokeswoman Julie Soderlund says Fiorina still worries about the rising deficit but refuses to let Californians suffer.

(Copyright 2010 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

WASHINGTON (AP) - A bill to restore unemployment benefits to millions who have been out of work for more than six months has cleared a Senate hurdle.

The 60-40 vote came moments after Carte Goodwin, a successor to West Virginia Democrat Robert Byrd, was sworn in. Goodwin was the crucial 60th senator to defeat a Republican filibuster that has led to a lapse in benefits for 2.5 million people.

A battle has raged for months over whether jobless benefits should be financed with additional federal debt as Democrats want or through cuts to other government programs as most Republicans insist.

After a final Senate vote, the House will take up the bill Wednesday. President Barack Obama is likely to sign it into law by week's end.

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) Republican Senate candidate Carly Fiorina says she would not support extending unemployment benefits under the terms of a bill that was defeated in the Senate.

During an interview Thursday on ABC's "Good Morning America," Fiorina said she would support a bill to extend unemployment benefits, but only if money was provided to pay for it. She does not favor adding to the nation's deficit.

Republicans in the Senate successfully filibustered the measure Wednesday night. It would have reinstated benefits for more than 1.3 million laid-off workers. Hundreds of thousands more will lose benefits in the coming weeks.

The state Employment Development Department says the benefit loss is affecting about 260,000 jobless Californians.

Fiorina's opponent, Democratic Sen. Barbara Boxer, voted for the bill.

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger has released his comments about the latest report on California's unemployment rate. The report finds the state's unemployment rate decreased to 12.4 percent in May, down from 12.5 percent in April.

"While the decline of our unemployment rate is welcome news, there are still far too many Californians out of work. To achieve a full recovery, there must be accelerated hiring in the private sector, and that's exactly why we must not burden California employers and consumers with higher taxes. Now is the time for government to be a partner to economic growth, not an obstacle to it. Just this week, Baxter's BioScience business announced it would continue investing in California because of the efforts of Los Angeles and my Administration to expand the East Los Angeles Enterprise Zone. These are the type of efforts we should focus on, and I encourage the legislature to consider this as they continue budget deliberations." - Gov. Schwarzenegger.

California's unemployment rate has gone down for the first time in several months.

The California Employment Development Department says the state's unemployment rate decreased to 12.4 percent in May, down from 12.5 percent in April. It's estimated the number of Californians holding jobs in May was at 16,062,000. The report says California has gained some 95,000 jobs in the first five months of 2010, with 28,300 of those jobs gained in May.

The unemployment rate was derived from a federal survey of 5,500 California households.

Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger says California has a long way to go before it can recover from the recession.

That's the statement his office has released in response to the latest unemployment numbers, released Friday. It says the state's unemployment rate remained unchanged at 12.6 percent in April, but the state did manage to add 14,200 jobs last month.

Here is the Governor's complete statement:
"While I am encouraged that April marked the fourth consecutive month California has added jobs, we have a long way to go for employment to recover from this great recession. For that to happen we need to see vigorous hiring in the private sector, and that's why I refused to propose new tax increases in my May Revision budget. Government needs to encourage private sector hiring, which will increase revenues and economic output, not discourage that hiring by increasing burdens on employers, which would stall our economic recovery. For proof, we need look no further than the announcement Tesla Motors made yesterday. Last year, the state enacted a tax exemption for Zero Emission Vehicle manufacturing equipment and eliminated a penalty imposed on corporations that added California employees, and now Tesla will ramp up its electric vehicle production at the Fremont NUMMI facility, action that could create more than 1,000 jobs in California."

California unemployment rate remained unchanged at 12.6 percent for April.

That's according to the latest figures from the California Employment Development Department. That state department says nonfarm payroll jobs increased by 14,200 last month. That means that California has gained some 56,400 jobs since the beginning of 2010. Still, the department says that the year-over-year change (April 2009 to April 2010) shows a decrease of 355,300 jobs.

About 2.3 million Californians remain unemployed.

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) California's unemployment rate held steady last month at 12.6 percent, despite an increase in national unemployment.

The state Employment Development Department released the new figures Friday.

Non-farm payroll jobs went up by 14,200 in April, marking a fourth straight month of gains. Since Jan. 1, the state has added more than 56,000 new jobs.

About 2.3 million Californians remain unemployed. That's down 7,000 from March, but still higher than a year ago, when the jobless rate was 11 percent.

Meanwhile, national unemployment figures rose from 9.7 percent to 9.9 percent in April.

The latest unemployment figures and news of a big company closing in Santa Maria have many in the area worried more than ever about jobs.

New figures show Santa Maria now has a 15.3% unemployment rate. It's quite a bit higher than Santa Barbara County's unemployment rate, as of February 2010, of 9.9%. The latest unemployment rate for San Luis Obispo County is 10.6 percent.

Joseph Steward has been focused on finding a job but says it's been extremely challenging."Not good, not good. I'm here everyday during the week," he said. Steward is getting help at the Workforce Resource Center. "I'm kind of stressing. I need work. Unemployment is about to run out so I'm kind of hurting."

Dave Cross of the Santa Maria Valley Chamber of Commerce says Santa Maria has been hit hard. Cross said there's a huge need for industrial jobs, as the UPS Call Center just gave 260 employees notices. "The UPS type of jobs that we lost, that's where we really need to develop our base. We're also working with the Santa Barbara County Energy Watch Program to develop awareness on the so called green jobs to try and get those revved up and going."

Construction has also been hit hard in the area. It's the type of job Steward is searching for. Steward said, "I go to building sites and they say show me your resume. Okay, if I can use you I'll give you a call and that's it." Steward has been looking for a job for a year and a half. He wants to stay here because of the nice weather and more importantly, because his family lives here.

Another Central Coast city with a high unemployment rate is the City of Lompoc. The latest figures there show it at 17.2 percent.

LOS ANGELES (AP) A former state employee has been sentenced to two and a half years in prison for bilking California out of more than $30,000 in unemployment benefits.

Prosecutors say 40-year-old Martin Bautista was also ordered Monday to pay full restitution to the Employment Development Department.

Bautista pleaded guilty to mail fraud and aggravated identity theft earlier this year, admitting that he took over the unemployment insurance accounts of multiple victims while employed at the EDD's Riverside office.

As part of the scheme, prosecutors say Bautista caused EDD to issue more than $30,000 in checks for unemployed beneficiaries whose names were similar to Bautista's and his co-defendant Francisco Gomez.

Gomez was also sentenced to two and a half years in prison Monday.

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) The state says California's unemployment rate held steady at 12.5 percent in February, although it still lost more than 20,000 jobs.

The Employment Development Department reported Friday that the state's loss followed a gain of 32,000 jobs in January. The number of jobs in California have fallen 4.1 percent from the same time last year.

The department says many of those losses occurred in the construction industry, which lost 21,500 jobs. Professional and business services grew more than any other sector, gaining 10,000 jobs.

Around the country, the jobless rate also remained unchanged in February at 9.7 percent. Michigan still tops the list for the highest jobless rate with 14.1 percent.

California's unemployment is hovering at the all-time high rate of 12.5 percent.

That's the most recent news from the California Employment Development Department. It says Californians lost some 20,400 jobs in February. That rate is unchanged from January's unemployment rate. To provide some perspective on the economy, the unemployment rate sat at 10.2 percent in February of 2009.

The nation's unemployment now sits at 9.7 percent.

Though unemployment is up on the Central Coast, it's still below the state average.

The latest state figures show unemployment in San Luis Obispo County rose just less than one percent from December to January. It now stands at 10.6%.

Santa Barbara County also saw a jump of about one percent, to a rate of 10.4%. Statewide, the rate is 13.2%.

Michael Manchak of the Economic Vitality Corporation credits the government sector for the relatively low rate, but says it's a mixed blessing. "It provides a lot of stable employment, albeit there's not as much growth in those sectors of public employment, once the economy is in trouble."

Manchak says focusing on the private sector will create more jobs as the public sector faces increasingly tough times.

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) New federal labor data show that California's unemployment rate remains the fifth highest in the nation.

The ranking was released Wednesday by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The state's jobless rate of 12.5 percent in January, which was released last week, remains well above the national rate of 9.7 percent.

The West had the highest unemployment rate of any region, at 10.8 percent.

Michigan leads the nation with an unemployment rate of 14.3 percent, followed by Nevada and Rhode Island.

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) State officials say California's unemployment rate grew slightly to 12.5 percent in January.

The latest employment figures were released Friday. The state's unemployment rate in December was 12.3 percent.

State officials had previously reported December's unemployment rate at 12.4 percent, but revised that figure Friday.

Despite the increase in unemployment in January, the state added 32,500 jobs. The construction industry saw the largest increase with an additional 16,200 jobs.

The information, financial activities, and professional and business services industries were the only ones that lost jobs.

The national unemployment rate, meanwhile, is holding steady at 9.7 percent.

WASHINGTON (AP) - The unemployment rate held at 9.7 percent in February as employers shed fewer jobs than expected, evidence that the job market may be slowly healing.

The Labor Department said employers cut 36,000 jobs, below analysts' expectations of 50,000. Analysts expected the jobless rate to rise to 9.8 percent.

The severe snowstorms that hammered the East Coast last month may have affected job losses, but the department wouldn't quantify the impact.

Other data in the report signaled the storms didn't have as much impact as feared.

Economists estimated before the report that the storms could inflate job losses by 100,000 or more. That would mean the economy generated a net gain in jobs last month, excluding the impact of the snow, for only the second time since the recession began in December 2007.

(Copyright 2010 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

WASHINGTON (AP) - The economy lost more jobs in December and the unemployment rate was unchanged, as a sluggish economic recovery has yet to revive hiring among the nation's employers.

The Labor Department says employers cut 85,000 jobs last month, worse than the 8,000 drop analysts expected.
A sharp drop in the labor force, a sign more of the jobless are giving up on their search for work, kept the unemployment rate at 10 percent, the same as in November. Once people stop looking for jobs, they are no longer counted among the unemployed.

Revisions to the previous two months' data showed the economy actually generated 4,000 jobs in November, the first gain in nearly two years, while it lost 16,000 more than previously estimated in October.

(Copyright 2010 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

Friday, February 27, 2009

Reported by: DON THOMPSON, Associated Press Writer

SACRAMENTO (AP)

California's unemployment rate jumped to 10.1 percent in January, the state's first double-digit jobless reading in a quarter-century.

The jobless rate announced Friday by the state Employment Development Department represents an increase from the revised figure of 8.7 percent in December.

A year ago, California's unemployment rate was 6.1 percent.

Since then, steep declines in the construction, finance and retail industries have put thousands out of work.

The number of people without jobs in California soared to more than 1.8 million, up 754,000 over January 2008.

Stephen Levy, senior economist for the Palo Alto-based Center for Continuing Study of the California Economy, says the last time California unemployment topped 10 percent was June 1983.

(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

Monday, January 26, 2009
Reported by: Carina Corral

As of Monday, the state's unemployment fund has officially run out of money.

According to the Employment Development Department, the state pays about $30 to $34 million a day in unemployment benefits. It will have to rely on a $2 billion federal loan to get through March.

The problem lies in not enough revenue going into the program and too many checks going out.

Action News talked with a spokesperson for the EDD who says, nonetheless, unemployment checks will be honored.

Carrina Hanson has been on the job hunt for about two months.

"I have about $30 in my bank account and maybe $10 in my wallet," said Hanson.

And now Hanson is learning the state's unemployment fund has even less than that.

Many people at the Creekside Career Center in San Luis Obispo looking for jobd now know their main source of assistance is dried up.

"It's a very scary thing. I'm personally very scared," said Hanson.

But a spokesperson for the EDD says there is no need to worry - yet.

"The important thing for them to know is their benefits will continue to be paid," said Loree Levy, an EDD spokesperson.

The Unemployment Insurance Trust Fund is sustained mainly by taxes on employers, separate from the state budget.

"So employer's contributions go straight into this Unemployment Insurance Trust Fund that's kept at the federal level and that fund is what pays unemployment insurance benefits," Levy said.

Part of their contributions also pays for loans to states that face insolvency. About a dozen are in the same boat as California.

"We look to be taking out a federal loan to get us through this entire year," said Levy.

That's a short term solution. Long term, the legislature may have to make some unpopular decisions, like giving unemployed workers less and taxing employers more.

ACTION NEWS WEB POLL FOR MONDAY, JANUARY 26

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