Unemployment Claims Drop to 2019 Low

The organization says about 150

The Indiana Department of Workforce Development says the number of unemployment claims filed by Hoosiers fell to its lowest level in 2019 last month. The state reported nearly 14,300 claims filed in May, which is also a 20 percent decline from the previous month.

The May numbers also represent a 40 percent drop from the February high of nearly 24,000 claims. 

"Unemployment claims typically fall as seasonal hiring increases during the spring and summer months, but the smaller amount of claims in May is especially positive, as overall unemployment in Indiana continues to remain low," Fran Valentine, senior director of research, analysis and engagement, said in a news release.

Earlier this month, the DWD reported the state’s unemployment rate remained steady at 3.6 percent for May, the same as the national average. Year-over-year, the state’s unemployment rate has only risen by 0.1 percent.