#GeorgiaEconomy | AM 1180 Radio

June 27, 2026

Chattooga County Unemployment Rate Edges Up In May

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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.

June 19, 2026

by Jimmy Holbrook

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

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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.

June 15, 2026

by Jimmy Holbrook

Nearly Half Of Chattooga County Households Struggle To Afford Basic Needs, New ALICE Data Shows

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A newly released report from United For ALICE paints a sobering picture of financial hardship in Chattooga County, showing that many local families are struggling to make ends meet despite being employed.

June 10, 2026

by Jimmy Holbrook

Georgia Drivers Saved Nearly $200 Million During Temporary Gas Tax Suspension

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Georgia motorists saved an estimated $188 million during a temporary suspension of the state’s motor fuel tax that ended June 2, according to newly released state revenue figures.

The tax relief measure, approved earlier this year by Governor Brian Kemp and state lawmakers, temporarily reduced the cost of gasoline and diesel fuel for consumers across Georgia. The suspension was intended to help offset higher fuel costs and provide financial relief to families and businesses.

State officials reported that fuel tax collections dropped significantly during the period the tax break was in effect, contributing to lower overall revenue from motor fuel taxes. Despite the decline in fuel tax collections, Georgia’s broader revenue picture remained stable due to strong collections from other tax sources.

The savings translated into lower prices at the pump for drivers statewide, with the average motorist paying several cents less per gallon during the suspension. State leaders have frequently used temporary fuel tax suspensions in recent years as a way to provide relief during periods of elevated fuel prices or economic uncertainty.

With the tax break now expired, Georgia’s full motor fuel tax rate has returned, meaning drivers are once again paying the standard state tax on gasoline and diesel purchases.

Supporters of the measure say it delivered meaningful savings to Georgia households, while critics note the temporary suspension also reduced transportation-related revenues that help fund road and infrastructure projects.

June 4, 2026

by Jimmy Holbrook

Georgia Expands Support For Farmers With New Resource Center As Trade Talks Continue

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Georgia agriculture leaders are continuing efforts to strengthen the state’s farming industry through new business resources and expanded market opportunities.

June 1, 2026

by Jimmy Holbrook

Chattooga County Posts Highest Unemployment Rate On Regional Map

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New labor force numbers released for Northwest Georgia show Chattooga County with the highest unemployment rate listed on the latest regional map.

May 29, 2026

by Jimmy Holbrook

Northwest Georgia Unemployment Rate Falls To 2.7 Percent

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The Georgia Department of Labor announced Thursday that Northwest Georgia’s unemployment rate dropped to 2.7 percent in April, down six-tenths of a percentage point from the previous month. The rate was 2.8 percent one year ago.

May 22, 2026

by Jimmy Holbrook

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

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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.

May 9, 2026

by Jimmy Holbrook

Georgia Tax Collections Increase Again in April

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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.

May 8, 2026

by Jimmy Holbrook

Governor Kemp Signs Major Forestry Legislation Supporting Rural Georgia

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Governor Brian P. Kemp signed a major package of forestry and natural resources legislation Thursday at the Georgia Forestry Association headquarters in Forsyth, highlighting what industry leaders are calling a major boost for Georgia’s forestry economy and rural communities.