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In another blow to the state unemployment trust fund, Micron Technology announced an additional 1,500 job cuts in Idaho. Although the effects of the event aren't immediately measurable, the job slashes come after state projections already estimate a 50% depletion of unemployment insurance funds by March of 2010 given the economic slowdown. Reserves in insurance have been shrinking as a result of increasing unemployment rates (now 5%) and subsequently greater unemployment claims, but the State Department of Labor points out that the fund is doing much better than funds in other states. Economists predict economic turnaround in late 2009 with help alleviate losses before any help will be needed from federal loans. However, Idaho businesses will likely face a higher unemployment insurance tax rate due to adjustments in accordance with employment changes.