UNEMPLOYMENT PICTURE LOOKING BETTER - But 1,700 Jobs Went Away?

(08/17/2004)
The unemployment picture in West Virginia is improving, according to statistics released by the state Bureau of Employment Programs.

Despite the loss (elimination) of 1,700 jobs, West Virginia's unemployment rate dipped by two-tenths of a percentage point to five-point-two percent in July.

The service sector lost the 1,700 jobs, primarily in government education jobs, offsetting gains of 1,000 jobs in leisure, hospitality and fast food.

Construction added 700 seasonal jobs, but natural resources and mining lost 200 and manufacturing jobs fell by 100.

Unemployment figures are based on individuals who are receiving benefits. Once benefits or jobs are gone, they are not reflected in the unemployment statistics.