Chattooga County Unemployment Rate Edges Up In May

Chattooga County’s unemployment rate edged slightly higher in May, according to newly released figures from the Georgia Department of Labor.

The county posted a jobless rate of 3.8 percent for May, up from 3.7 percent in April. Despite the small monthly increase, the local rate remains relatively low as Georgia continues to report strong employment numbers statewide.

Georgia Labor Commissioner Bárbara Rivera Holmes said May traditionally brings a new wave of workers into the job market as graduates begin looking for employment. She said Georgia’s growing workforce remains one of the reasons companies continue to invest across the state.

Statewide, Georgia has now surpassed 5 million jobs, a milestone labor officials say reflects continued opportunity for both new workers and experienced professionals.

For Chattooga County, the latest numbers show a modest increase in unemployment heading into the summer months, while the overall labor market remains steady.

Georgia Surpasses 5 Million Jobs As Unemployment Rate Falls To 3.4 Percent

The Georgia Department of Labor announced Thursday that the state has reached a major economic milestone, surpassing 5 million jobs for the first time in state history.

According to the latest labor report, Georgia recorded 5,002,400 jobs in May, an all-time high. The state’s labor force also reached a record 5,470,704, while total employment climbed to a new high of 5,283,862.

Georgia’s unemployment rate fell to 3.4 percent in May, down from a revised 3.5 percent in April and well below the national unemployment rate.

“Five million jobs, an all-time high labor force, and record employment in a single month: This is what a modern, adaptable economy looks like when it works for all Georgians,” said Georgia Labor Commissioner Bárbara Rivera Holmes.

The state added 6,900 jobs during May and has now experienced job growth for three consecutive months. Employment increased by more than 56,000 jobs over the past year.

Among the industries posting the largest gains in May were accommodation and food services, administrative and support services, transportation and warehousing, local government and state government.

Over the past year, health care and social assistance led all sectors with nearly 25,000 new jobs added statewide.

The labor department also reported that initial unemployment claims declined in May, another sign of continued strength in Georgia’s workforce and economy.

Mohawk Industries Shareholders Approve New 2026 Incentive Plan

Mohawk Industries shareholders have approved a new 2026 Incentive Plan following the company’s annual stockholder meeting held on May 21st.

According to the company’s filing, the plan authorizes up to 3.5 million shares of common stock for equity and cash-based awards. Those awards may be made available to employees, officers, directors, and consultants.

The incentive plan became effective the same day it was approved and is scheduled to run through May 21, 2036, unless ended earlier.

Mohawk Industries remains one of the major manufacturing names connected to Northwest Georgia’s floor covering industry.

Georgia Labor Force, Employment Reach All-Time Highs in April

The Georgia Department of Labor announced Thursday that the state reached new all-time highs in both labor force participation and total employment during April, while Georgia’s unemployment rate remained well below the national average.

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Georgia Tax Collections Increase Again in April

Georgia’s tax collections continued to climb in April, according to newly released state revenue figures, reflecting continued growth in sales tax and corporate tax revenues statewide.

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Georgia Labor Force, Employment Reach Record Highs In March

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Georgia’s workforce continues to show strong growth, with both labor force participation and employment reaching all-time highs in March, according to new data from the Georgia Department of Labor.

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Northwest Georgia Industrial Site Fully Leased With Second International Tenant

A major industrial development in Northwest Georgia has now reached full capacity after securing a second international tenant.

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Unemployment Holds Steady Across Northwest Georgia In March

Unemployment rates across Chattooga, Floyd, and Walker counties remained relatively stable in recent data, reflecting continued steady job conditions in Northwest Georgia heading into the spring.

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Deadline Approaching For Georgia Annual Business Registration

Georgia business owners are being reminded that the annual registration deadline with the Secretary of State’s office is fast approaching.

All businesses, including LLCs and corporations, must complete their annual registration for 2026 by April 1 to remain in active compliance. The standard filing fee is $50 for most businesses.

Officials warn that failing to file by the deadline will result in a $25 late penalty and could eventually lead to administrative dissolution or revocation of the business entity.

Business owners are encouraged to file online through the Georgia Secretary of State’s website to ensure timely processing and avoid penalties.

Tyson Foods To Close Rome Plant, Impacting Local Workforce

A longtime manufacturing facility in Rome is set to close, as Tyson Foods announces it will cease operations at its plant on Darlington Drive later this spring.

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