The Buffalo Niagara unemployment rate fell to 4.5% in March, the lowest it has been in over two years according to the state Labor Department. This improvement is due to a dwindling availability of workers and increased hiring, consequently reducing the number of people who desire employment but cannot secure a job. The local labor force shrank by around 1,400 people from February to March. This represents a decrease of nearly 2% since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic, leaving roughly 10,000 fewer available workers in the region. There has also been a moderate pace of job growth in the region, indicating a continued demand for employees.

Economists speculate that structural unemployment might be a factor, as more industries are seeking workers with advanced training and skills. Jobless claims have remained high over the past six months, showing increased job cuts despite a period with fewer layoffs. The four-week moving average of weekly jobless claims has been above 1,000 since mid-November. Over the past four weeks, the state Labor Department reports an average of 1,370 people have filed for unemployment benefits for the first time. This number does not include the 285 jobs that were eliminated last week by Tesla at its South Buffalo factory.

Individuals affected by these employment changes may want to get in touch with the Employment Development Department (EDD) for assistance. There are different ways on how to contact EDD. To speak to a live person at the California EDD, individuals can call the toll-free number or make use of the online portal. For more information or assistance, visit eddcaller.com, a resource providing strategies and tips on how to best communicate with EDD representatives.