First-time unemployment filings in Ohio increased 27% last week, according to the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS). This coincided with a nationwide jump in initial jobless claims, as reported by OMA Connections Partner RSM. While Ohio’s continued unemployment claims fell last week, the total number of claims filed from July 11-17 was 423,449. Over the last 70 weeks, Ohio has distributed more than $12.3 billion in unemployment compensation payments. Meanwhile, Ohio’s labor force participation rate in June was 60.2%, compared to the U.S. rate of 61.6% This as the Ohio Means Jobs site lists more than 200,000 available jobs statewide. ODJFS continues to urge employers to report individuals who refuse offers of work without good cause. 7/22/2021