Employment Fell by 701K in March Due to Effects of Coronavirus

Washington, DC, April 3, 2020-Total nonfarm payroll employment fell by 701,000 in March, and the unemployment rate rose to 4.4%, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported.

The changes in these measures reflect the effects of the coronavirus (COVID-19) and efforts to contain it. 

Employment in leisure and hospitality fell by 459,000, mainly in food services and drinking places. Notable declines also occurred in healthcare and social assistance, professional and business services, retail trade, and construction.