NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — Tennessee saw more than 14 times as many new unemployment claims filed last week compared to the previous one, showing the stark economic consequences of the coronavirus pandemic that has shuttered businesses to try to curb further infection.
According to U.S. Department of Labor figures, Tennessee had 39,096 new claims during the week that ended Saturday. That was before Gov. Bill Lee limited restaurants and bars statewide to takeout, delivery and drive-thru and closed gyms, which took effect Monday.
Some cities and counties had similar restrictions last week, and more stringent closure orders have followed.
There were 2,702 new claims during the week ending March 14.
