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Michigan jobless numbers improved in October, but COVID-19 surge may mean trouble

steve carmody
/
Michigan Radio

Michigan’s latest monthly joblessnumbers show improvement, though they come from before the recent spike in COVID-19 cases.

The Michigan Department of Technology, Management & Budget says the state’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate in October dropped to 5.5%. It was the state’s lowest jobless rate since March.

But like in March, Michigan workers are facing an uncertain future as rising COVID-19 cases and new state restrictions put strains on employers.

Earlier this week, state unemployment officials urged Michiganders who are facing losing a job for a second time this year to reopen their claim online.

Since mid-March, more than 2.2 million Michiganders have received state and federal jobless benefits.

Steve Carmody has been a reporter for Michigan Public since 2005. Steve previously worked at public radio and television stations in Florida, Oklahoma and Kentucky, and also has extensive experience in commercial broadcasting.
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