Florida's Unemployment Reaches 17-Year High

Florida's unemployment jumped a whole percentage point from 7.6% in December 2008 to 8.6% in January 2009. This increase marks a 17-year high for Florida's unemployment.

The total number of unemployed in the state is estimated at 800,000, with over 300,000 job losses this January alone. Some project the effects of the recession to linger in Florida until mid 2011 and estimate unemployment to rise to over 10% in the state. 

However, the $13 billion stimulus package is projected to create 200,000 Florida jobs and has extended eligibility for unemployment benefits for up to 59 weeks.