by J.D. Davidson Ohio’s September labor statistics continued to lag the rest of the nation, but analysts see positive signs. According to figures released by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services, the state’s unemployment rate remained unchanged at 4.5% for the second consecutive month. However, the labor force participation rate rose slightly to 62.4% from 62.3%. Both of those numbers were below the national average. The national unemployment rate continues to fall, finishing September at 4.1%, while the labor force participation rate closed at 62.7%. “September’s report contained good news, with 9,500 new private-sector jobs erasing August’s job loss,” said Rea S. Hederman Jr., executive director of the Economic Research Center and vice president of policy at The Buckeye Institute. “Although private-sector job growth has continued throughout 2024, growth remains slow, with some down months slowing the overall upward trend.” The job growth has other analysts optimistic about the labor market’s concerns. “Strong job gains in September mirror national employment trends, which exceeded expectations last month,” said Molly Bryden, researcher with Policy Matters Ohio. “Recent growth alleviates broad concerns around a weakening labor market, and as the Fed continues to lower interest rates, Ohioans can remain hopeful…
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