September unemployment highest since 1985

Nevada's September unemployment was the highest rate the Silver State has seen in more than 20 years.

The 7.3 percent seasonally adjusted rate compares to 5 percent in September 2007 and is up two tenths from August.

In Carson City, the rate jumped to 7.3 from 6.8 percent in August and 4.9 percent a year ago. There are now more than 2,200 people out of work in the capital, a jump of 200 in just a month.

In September, more than 21,000 workers filed unemployment claims in Nevada.

Statewide, according to the Nevada Department of Employment, Training and Rehabilitation, there are now more than 102,000 Nevadans out of work in a workforce of more than 1.4 million " the first time that number has exceeded 100,000.

The Las Vegas Metropolitan Area had the state's highest unemployment rate at 7.4 percent, followed by Carson City. Reno-Sparks was at 6.9 percent for September.

Elko, buoyed by the continuing mining boom, reported just 4.1 percent out of work.

Bill Anderson, chief economist for DETR, said the rate went up in September despite the fact schools reopened, putting teachers back to work statewide.

He said Nevada isn't at the bottom of the slump yet. He said current projections indicate Nevada's unemployment rate will average 8.6 percent for 2009. He said that means about 120,000 people out of work.

While the situation in Nevada is at its worst since November 1985, the unemployment rate is higher in California " 7.7 percent. The national rate, in contrast, remained steady at 6.1 percent from August to September.

Unlike some other states, Anderson said Nevada's Unemployment Insurance Trust Fund remains healthy and will continue paying benefits to those who've lost their jobs.

Contact reporter Geoff Dornan at gdornan@nevadaappeal.com or 687-8750.