News releases

In the past 16 months, community organizations have helped more than 7,000 people in underserved communities better understand the unemployment benefits they had available. Thanks to $1 million from the state Legislature, the Employment Security Department’s groundbreaking Unemployment Insurance (UI) Navigator program will continue for another year.

Employment Security Department Commissioner Cami Feek begins yearlong term as board chair for the National Association of State Workforce Agencies (NASWA).

The Employment Security Department is proud to pay tribute to a month-long celebration of the significant effect workforce development programs have in Washington. September marks the 20th anniversary of National Workforce Development Month.

County unemployment rates and employment data for July 2025 are now available on the Employment Security Department website. Visit the labor force page to view historic and current data on the unemployment rate.

The Employment Security Department, along with state and local partners, will host another layoff assistance webinar for state of Washington employees and contractors. The webinar is scheduled from 1 to 3 p.m. on Aug. 21.

Washington’s economy increased by an estimated 10,800 jobs (seasonally adjusted) in July 2025, and the monthly unemployment rate held steady at 4.5%.

Employment Security Department recently took home two awards for its exemplary leadership in disability inclusion.

OLYMPIA – The Employment Security Department, along with state and local partners, will host a layoff assistance webinar for state of Washington employees and contractors. The webinar is scheduled from 1 to 3 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 5.

Adults about to be released from jail in Kitsap, Franklin, Walla Walla and Pierce counties will receive help to assess their skills, find a job and more through a $3 million grant from the U.S. Department of Labor.

County unemployment rates and employment data for June 2025 are now available on the Employment Security Department website. Visit the labor force page to view historic and current data on the unemployment rate.