The Georgia Department of Labor released unemployment numbers on Thursday of this week.  Initial unemployment claims in Chattooga County dropped by 80 during the month of June.  In May of this year, there were 295 claims and last month their were 215.  Georgia’s June unemployment rate remained steady at 3.2 percent, unchanged from a revised 3.2 percent in May. The unemployment rate is also four-tenths lower than the national average of 3.6 percent. “Georgia continues to become an economic powerhouse, attracting leading-edge businesses from around the globe,” said Commissioner Bruce Thompson. “While low unemployment is crucial for a thriving economy, balancing job growth with a skilled workforce capable of meeting the demands of new and existing industries is crucial. This balanced approach will help guarantee that businesses of all sizes have the talent they need to grow, scale, and succeed.”