In recent weeks, unemployment insurance claims have hit record numbers. But what exactly do unemployment insurance programs cover? And what roles do states play?

National Hispanic Heritage Month, which started on Sept. 15 and continues through Oct. 15, is a time to celebrate the culture, history, and accomplishments of American citizens who trace their ancestors to Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. The Hispanic population in the Fifth District is significant and is growing, but a look at labor market indicators provides some insight on the disparity in outcomes for the Hispanic population relative to the population overall.

Income has been growing, but many households have not fully recovered from the recession. Income inequality persists at the national level and varies by state and metro area within the Fifth District.

Virginia gained jobs at a brisk pace during 2015, but the pace slowed during the first five months of 2016 and has only recently picked up again. Employment growth by industry and by metro area varies substantially.