Eric Anderson is reporting for the Times Union the number of new unemployment claims topped 6.6 million for the second week in a row, the U.S. Labor Department reported April 9. The filings reflect activity for the week ending April 4. In New York state, more than 345,000 claims were filed, down from 367,000 the week before. During the past three weeks, 800,000 new claims were filed statewide. Nationally, that figure is more than 16 million during the past three weeks. Restaurants, retail shops, schools and colleges, and theaters and other venues have largely closed down, with only essential businesses continuing to operate, as government officials urge consumers to stay home and practice social distancing. Airlines and Amtrak have cut service, with fewer planes and shorter trains operating. Regional highways are seeing lighter traffic, even during rush hours. Read the full story in the Times Union.