NH economist lowers forecast for 2026
A key New Hampshire economist has trimmed down to 2.2% his forecast for the growth in the state's economy this for 2026, citing lackluster consumer confidence and the uncertainty of the U.S. war against Iran.
NH unemployment claims rise again
But more people returning to work than seeking benefits
While unemployment in New Hampshire remains low, there is a high degree of churn in the job market, according to the statistics released Thursday morning by the U.S. Department of Labor.
New jobless claims rose to 1,059 in the week ending June 26 after falling to pre-pandemic levels the week before, but a lot more – 1,629 – seemed to be returning to work during the week, which ended June 19.
June 19 was also the last week federal benefits went to New Hampshire workers, following Gov. Chris Sununu’s decision to end the $300-a-week enhancement as well as assistance to people who aren’t working because of Covid-related reasons.
In the run-up to that June 19 deadline, such claims jumped, also by more than a thousand after weeks of sharp drops. But in the week ending June 12, filings for federal benefits increased by 18.8%, to 6,647, after falling 12% the week before.
Nationally, new claims fell 11.4%, to 364,000, after increasing 7% for two weeks in a row.
