Weekly combined unemployment claims lowest since outset of pandemic
Baton Rouge, La. (December 15, 2020) – The Baton Rouge Area Chamber (BRAC) today released its COVID-19 economic indicator dashboard that examines and assesses the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the regional economy. The dashboard is available online at brac.org/recovery.
“While the economy continues its slow recovery, there are signs that another stimulus is crucial. Consumer spending is falling during a time period in which it is usually at its height, and the lack of individuals traveling this winter mean that the hotel, airline, and other transportation industries will continue to struggle for revenue,” said Andrew Fitzgerald, senior director of business intelligence for BRAC. “BRAC will continue to monitor progress in Washington, D.C., and provide guidance to the Capital Region community if meaningful legislation is passed.”
Key findings from this week’s dashboard include:
- Weekly combined unemployment claims fell for the second week in a row after a two-week spike that the Louisiana Workforce Commission investigated for fraud. The 12,708 claims were the fewest since before the pandemic;
- Consumer spending dipped for the region’s three largest parishes, although all three are near pre-pandemic spending levels;
- Hotel occupancy and revenue are both up over-the-week, although a bit below 2019 levels thanks to governmental advisories not to travel this holiday season;
- Mobility is relatively flat, but travel to the workplace is up over-the-week in a majority of Capital Region parishes.
The dashboard looks at a number of data points to illustrate the economy’s current state. With data from a number of regional stakeholders, the dashboard is the most real-time analysis of the Baton Rouge metro economy available.
To download this week’s indicator dashboard directly, click here.
BRAC is regularly updating brac.org/recovery with business resources and guidance related to COVID-19.
About the Baton Rouge Area Chamber
The Baton Rouge Area Chamber (BRAC) leads economic development in the nine-parish Baton Rouge Area, working to grow jobs and wealth and to improve the business climate and competitiveness in the region. Today, BRAC investors include more than 1,400 small businesses, mid-sized firms, large industry and entrepreneurial startups, as well as individuals and organizations that support business and economic development. In this capacity, BRAC serves as the voice of the business community, providing knowledge, access, services and advocacy. More information is available at brac.org.
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