First time jobless claims reach 600,000 in South Carolina

For the latest week, the one that ended Saturday, June 13, a total of 19,368 South Carolinians filed first time claims for unemployment benefits.  That was some 3,300 fewer than the previous week.  However, the head of the state’s Employment and Workforce office says nevertheless, a significant milestone has been reached:  more than 600 thousand state residents have filed claims and more than $2 billion in benefits has been paid out.  In the latest report, Oconee County saw an increase in claims, from 289 the previous week to 418 for the latest week.  Dan Ellzey, state director, found a positive note.  His office is hearing from many businesses that are actively looking for workers and industrial operations that are ramping up to respond to market and consumer demands.