Initial filings for unemployment benefits in Georgia dropped significantly last week compared with the week prior, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. New jobless claims—a key proxy for layoffs—fell to 6,067 for the week ending January 17, down from 11,988 the previous week.

Nationally, U.S. unemployment claims edged up slightly to 200,000, an increase of 1,000 from 199,000 on a seasonally adjusted basis. The Virgin Islands recorded the largest percentage increase in weekly claims, rising 136.4%, while Georgia posted the largest percentage decline, with new claims down 49.4%.