The Los Angeles Center of Excellence for Labor Market Research (LA COE) has released When the Safety Net Snags: Analyzing Gaps in Unemployment Insurance and Identifying Adaptive Strategies Across Los Angeles County.

The report analyzes unemployment insurance (UI) claims across Los Angeles County from 2020 through 2024 to examine how industries and workers have fared during and after the economic disruption of the COVID-19 pandemic. Findings identify industries that have experienced sustained unemployment challenges as well as those that have demonstrated greater resilience such as the continued volatility in ICT/digital media and greater stability in public safety, health, and business and entrepreneurship. The report also examines differences in UI claims by education level and identifies opportunities for community colleges to strengthen programs in resilient and high-growth sectors, support adult learners transitioning from more volatile industries, and expand credential-stacking pathways that lead to stable employment.

Read the full report here.