Unemployment data

Although there’s lots of happy talk about the economy turning around, and the big banks are apparently minting money, the situation for ordinary workers is still perilous. The long-term unemployment rate — the proportion of the labor force that has been out of work for at least 15 weeks — is at the highest level since the depression. And the broad measure of unemployment plus under-employment is over 20% in some states, and is at 17% in North Carolina. Extended unemployment benefits are more important than ever. Click here for info on how to apply.