California’s unemployment rate grew to 4.9% in November, an increase of 0.1 percentage points from the previous month, according to data from the California Employment Development Department (EDD). In comparison to the previous month’s gains of 34,500, employers accounted for an increase of 9,300 new hires. The state’s job market is stagnant at best, according to Professor Jeffrey Michael of the University of the Pacific. Despite six out of 11 California industrial sectors adding nonfarm payroll jobs, overall job growth was less than October’s figures of 10 out of 11 sectors. November saw significant new hires in the private education and health services, leisure and hospitality, and construction sectors, with modest job losses in manufacturing.

People who are having trouble in understanding their unemployment status or need help with their claims can contact EDD customer service for guidance. They will provide the necessary assistance to help people understand their rights and benefits under state unemployment laws. They can also provide information about job application processes, job training resources, and other useful services.

Governor Gavin Newsom is backing a clean energy initiative in the Imperial Valley, where lithium deposits could increase the production of batteries that store clean energy and power electric vehicles. Despite the county’s 18.7 % unemployment rate being the highest in the state for November, the Governor sees this initiative as a potentially major boost for local economies. The state’s agricultural employers had 12,300 more farm jobs in November 2023 versus November a year ago, according to the EDD.