Unemployment Applications Drop, but Remain High

AP
Updated
Unemployment Applications
Unemployment Applications

By Christopher S. Rugaber

WASHINGTON -- Fewer Americans applied for unemployment benefits last week, though applications remain above levels consistent with a healthy economy.

The Labor Department said Thursday that unemployment benefit applications fell 16,000 to a seasonally adjusted 414,000, the second drop in three weeks. That's a positive sign that layoffs are slowing.

Still, applications have been above 400,000 for 10 straight weeks, evidence that the job market is weak compared to earlier this year.

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