The number of Americans filing new applications for jobless benefits fell last week, pointing to steady job growth in July, though some laid off workers are experiencing long spells of unemployment because of a moderation in hiring.

After three straight weeks of decline, unemployment claims grew in Pennsylvania last week. The U.S. Department of Labor reported 13,601 new initial unemployment claims for the week ending in July 12.

US initial jobless claims fell for the fifth consecutive week, reaching the lowest level since mid-April, reflecting continued strength in the labor m