A new Focus on Facts is available: Ohio Workers and the COVID-19 Global Health Emergency by Joseph Andre and Dr. Bob Gleeson

Abstract

The global economy has never before experienced the scale of sudden economic shock that is now underway. This is unchartered territory. Although the U.S. has many economic policies and worker support programs designed to ease dislocation during recessions, these programs were not designed for the unique circumstances of this global pandemic.

The most important program for workers is Unemployment Insurance. The first chart in this report shows the unprecedented number of new applications for unemployment insurance filed by Ohio workers during the week of March 16th. If all applicants are awarded benefits, the second chart shows that the number of Ohio workers receiving benefits is solidly on course to surpass the peak that occurred after 9-11 in 2001, and soon could exceed the peak that was experienced in 2008 during the Great Recession.

More about Focus on Facts:

Focus on Facts provides brief, thought-provoking information about urban policy issues based on research conducted at the Maxine Goodman Levin School of Urban Affairs. Our purpose is to stimulate additional discussion and debate. The series includes a "Map of the Month” as well as other formats. Questions or comments about specific topics can be addressed via email to the author(s). Questions or comments about the series of publications can be addressed to the Focus on Facts editor, Associate Dean Bob Gleeson at r.gleeson@csuohio.edu.

This and subsequent reports in this series are available on the Focus on Facts newsletter page.