Texas Employers Continue Adding Jobs in November
 Unemployment Rate Drops to 4.7 Percent

Texas Workforce Commission
Press Release Date: December 22, 2006
 

AUSTIN — Seasonally adjusted nonagricultural employment in Texas grew by 16,400 jobs from October to November as Texas employers continue adding jobs. Over the last 12 months, the Texas economy grew by 204,300 jobs, with an over-the-year growth rate of 2.1 percent. Texas employers now have added jobs for
26 consecutive months. November’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate dropped to 4.7 percent from
last month’s 4.8 percent and from 5.3 percent in November 2005.

The Midland Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) experienced the lowest unemployment rate in the state at 3.3 percent (not seasonally adjusted). The Amarillo and College Station-Bryan MSAs followed at 3.6 percent.

“Job growth has steadily increased for more than two years which indicates a robust Texas labor market,” said Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) Chair Diane Rath. “With broad-based job gains posted again this month, the state’s annual growth rate of 2.1 percent continues to significantly outpace the U.S. rate of 1.3 percent.”

Following banner October gains of 9,700 jobs, Professional & Business Services grew by another 4,400 positions in November. The industry posted an annual growth rate of 4.1 percent in November, adding 48,600 jobs since November 2005. Leisure & Hospitality posted a fifth consecutive month of job growth, gaining 3,400 jobs.

“Texas businesses continue to expand and thrive, strengthening the state’s job-growth figures,” said TWC Commissioner Representing Employers Ron Lehman. “I’m encouraged by growth in many sectors, including large year-over-year gains in Professional & Business Services and Construction.”

In the past 12 months, the construction industry showed significant growth of 7.4 percent in comparison to the overall U.S. rate of 0.7 percent. Construction grew by 42,800 jobs, further contributing to the health of the Texas economy.

“Our low unemployment rate means more and more Texans are finding jobs,” said TWC Commissioner Representing Labor Ronny Congleton. “I’m proud to say over the past year, more than 370,300 workers became employed.”

Initial claims for unemployment compensation in November 2006 were 56,392, down 8.9 percent from November 2005..

The Texas Workforce Commission is a state agency dedicated to helping Texas employers, workers and communities prosper economically. For details on TWC and the programs it offers in unison with its network of local workforce development boards, call (512) 463-8556 or visit www.texasworkforce.org.



 



  • What is the Quickest Way for Me to File
    for Unemployment Insurance Benefits and Other FAQs

    AUSTIN — Frequently asked Questions (FAQs) about Texas Unemployment Insurance Benefits:

    What is the quickest way to file for Unemployment Insurance (UI) benefits?
    The quickest and easiest way for claimants to file is through the Internet. Log on to www.texasworkforce.org. Click on Job Seekers and Employees and then click on Apply for Unemployment Benefits. The site has instructions and applications in both English and Spanish. Claimants using any Internet-connected computer can file their claim and also look for a job.

    How do I register for work and find a job?
    Job seekers should go to www.texasworkforce.org, which allows them to register for work online and gives them immediate access to job search tools and the location of the nearest Texas Workforce Center. Workforce centers allow the use of computers, printers and fax machines to aid in the job search, as well as access to numerous other resources provided at no cost. Workforce centers, in many cases, offer job- search seminars which provide instruction in job-search techniques, resume writing, how to fill out a job application for best result and how to interview for a job. Claimants are required to register for work to remain eligible for Unemployment Insurance benefits.

    How do I get my Unemployment Insurance checks?
    You request payment by filing claim certifications every two weeks. You will receive filing instructions in the mail that tell you how to file.

    What am I required to do after I apply for benefits?
     

    • Register for work, as directed, within seven days of the date you submitted your claim application.
    • Look for full-time work each week and keep a detailed log of your work-search contacts.
    • Read all information mailed to you by Texas Workforce Commission (TWC).

    TWC's online UI benefits application is for regular claims only. Individuals who believe they may qualify for Temporary Extended Unemployment Compensation, Disaster Unemployment Assistance, Trade Readjustment Assistance or assistance under the North American Free Trade Agreement should call a UI Tele-Center for more information. A listing of telephone numbers is available online at www.texasworkforce.org.

     
  • TWC Offers Variety of Online Services for Employers
    AUSTIN - The Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) offers a wide range of convenient, secure online solutions for the employers of Texas through its Web site at www.texasworkforce.org.

    "We continuously leverage all available technology to fulfill our commitment to helping employers succeed," said TWC Commissioner for Employers Ron Lehman. "Our Internet-based solutions are helping to ensure that success for employers and, in turn, the entire Texas workforce."
    (April 29, 2003 Texas Workforce Commission Press Release)
     

  • TWC Offers Tips for Employers and Teens
    as Summer Hiring Heats Up
    AUSTIN - Every summer, Texas' employers hire thousands of teen-age workers for a wide variety of part- and full-time positions. The Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) wants employers, workers and parents alike to be aware of the state and federal laws, and safety regulations affecting child labor issues.

    "The availability of teen workers is critical to the success of Texas' employers, especially during the summer," said TWC Chair Diane Rath. "Accordingly, it is extremely important for employers, teen workers and their parents to fully understand the labor laws that apply to them."
    (April 21, 2003 Texas Workforce Commission Press Release)
     

  • Online Unemployment Benefits Application
    Now Available for All Texans
    AUSTIN — Texans who have lost their jobs may now apply for unemployment insurance (UI) benefits through the Internet. UI provides temporary and partial wage replacement to eligible workers who have become unemployed through no fault of their own    ...
    (Sept. 17, 2002 Texas Workforce Commission Press Release)
     

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