New claims for unemployment benefits in Nebraska increased for the second week in a row, according to a weekly report from the Nebraska Department of Labor.
About 8,200 Nebraskans filed for first-time jobless benefits last week — a 34% increase over the week before.
At least 65% of the new claims are in the Omaha and Lincoln metro areas. Douglas and Lancaster Counties have accounted for the most claims since the pandemic began.
The most number of new claims last week were for cashiers and childcare workers. Overall, jobs in food service, hair styling, and retail have the most number of claims.
About 54,530 Nebraskans total claimed benefits last week. About 123,000 have filed since the pandemic began.
Week Ending July 11
Mid-March through July 11