JOBLESS CLAIMS FALL TO 194,000 AS HIRING QUESTIONS LINGER

New unemployment-benefit claims fell to 194,000 last week, the lowest level since mid-July.

The Labor Department figures suggest layoffs remain relatively restrained, even as the pace of new hiring has been modest. Employers have added an average of 68,000 jobs a month so far this year, according to AP. A low claims number does not mean every worker is finding a job easily; the next monthly employment report will offer a broader view.

Texas News Studio will continue monitoring this developing story. Information may change as officials and news organizations release updates.