The Ohio Department of Job and Family Services released unemployment data for the week of March 22-28, revealing a mixed picture of the state’s labor market.

Initial Claims Increase

Ohioans filed 4,858 initial unemployment claims during the week, representing an increase of 172 claims compared to the previous week. Approximately 912 of these claims have been flagged for enhanced identity verification to prevent potential fraud.

Continued Claims Decline

Despite the rise in initial claims, the number of continued unemployment claims decreased. A total of 55,845 Ohioans filed for continued benefits, which is 2,221 fewer than the week prior.

Broader Economic Context

Data from December indicates Ohio’s unemployment rate stood at 4.5%, slightly higher than the national rate of 4.4% at that time. The state’s labor force participation rate was 62.3% in December, nearly matching the national rate of 62.4%.

Other News from Ohio

Legal Ruling

The Ohio Supreme Court has agreed to hear an appeal from the City of Columbus regarding its gun laws.

Lancaster House Fire

A house fire in Lancaster early Wednesday morning resulted in three fatalities. Two individuals were successfully rescued from the home located in an alley near 6th and Madison avenues.

Columbus Police Shooting

A man died Tuesday night after being shot by police in north Columbus.

School Bus Accident Settlement

The family of a child struck by a vehicle while boarding a school bus has accepted a $52 million settlement.