An unpredictable market: Economist weighs in on layoffs, Michigan's unemployment rate - WWMT

As of August, Michigan's unemployment rate is at 5%, the third-highest in the U.S., according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. However, that number is relatively low compared to historic data. (WWMT) KALAMAZOO, Mich. — As of August, Michigan's unemployment rate is at 5%, the third-highest in the U.S., according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. However, that number is relatively low compared to historic data. Senior economist Brad Hershbein at the W.E. Upjohn Institute for Employment Research told News Channel 3 Tuesday it's an unpredictable market right now. "The number of people who are actually even trying to find a job has also been trending down," Hershbein said. "Some of that's aging. The population is just getting older.