The unemployment rate in Texas rose to 8.1% in November, the U.S. Labor Department said Friday. That’s an increase from the state’s October rate of 6.9% as Texas, whose businesses have been battered by the coronavirus pandemic, experienced another surge in infections. But the news also comes as the state begins distributing coronavirus vaccines.
The state’s unemployment rate for November is the latest indicator that economic recovery in Texas will be slow and staggered. And it’s a crucial data point for the Legislature, which will convene in January to tackle projected shortfalls to the state budget, a response to the pandemic and other meaty issues such as redrawing the state’s political maps.
Distribution of a COVID-19 vaccine could impact the unemployment rate in the coming months — though, as Gov. Greg Abbott said Thursday, officials expect it to take months before the vaccine is available to anyone who wants it. Leaders say that Texans should still limit indoor activities, practice social distancing and wear masks in the coming months, which could continue to impact businesses and employment.
PHOTO: Hundreds of cars lined up in the parking lot of Lehman High School in Kyle to receive food from the Central Texas Food Bank in November. Credit: Jordan Vonderhaar for The Texas Tribune