The unemployment rate in Chattooga County has risen to 3.8% in May, according to preliminary figures released Thursday by the Georgia Department of Labor. This marks an increase from the 3.4% rate recorded in April. The data reveals 342 individuals filed for unemployment benefits in Chattooga County during May, a jump from the 305 claims reported the previous month. While this figure represents a month-over-month increase, it remains lower than the 4.2% unemployment rate reported in May of 2024. Neighboring counties experienced lower unemployment rates in May, with Walker County reporting 3.2% and Floyd County at 3.4%. Regionally, Northwest Georgia reported an average unemployment rate of 3.2%. Georgia Labor Commissioner Bárbara Rivera Holmes addressed the statewide figures, stating, “Georgia’s strength isn’t measured in single months — it’s proven over time. Even with slight unemployment increases throughout Georgia’s regions in May, most of our metropolitan areas are showing lower unemployment than a year ago. That resilience reflects our modern, adaptive workforce, which is what keeps Georgia the No. 1 state for business in today’s competitive, global marketplace.” The Georgia Department of Labor continues to monitor unemployment trends and provides resources and services to assist individuals in finding employment.