Since the recession hit the state, this was the first time that the Maryland unemployment rate declined. This happened mainly because of the addition of jobs. The unemployment rate dipped to 7.5 percent last month from 7.7 percent. The businesses and agencies created 8,200 jobs. Hence an estimate of 36,000 jobs were gained.
Another positive sign has been the fall in the number of new claims for the unemployment benefits in the state. About 7,100 jobs were gained in the leisure and hospitality sector and 3,200 jobs were gained in education and health services sector.
“Today’s announcement is another positive sign for families and businesses in Maryland,” Gov. Martin O’Malley said in a press release Friday. “Building on our progress in March, Maryland created thousands of jobs in April as we come through the national recession. While there is still more to do, this second straight month of jobs gains shows that our economy is turning in a positive direction.”
According to the reports, the statistics show Maryland’s unemployment rate remains well below the national average, which climbed to 9.9 percent in April, up from 9.7 percent in March. First-time claims for unemployment benefits declined 11 percent in April, to 28,738.
The officials believe that the economy in Maryland is showing signs of recovery and that is a good news for the unemployed in the state.
If you want to know more about the unemployment claims in the state, then you can refer to the unemployment benefits guide of Maryland.