Published: 12-19-08
Texas Unemployment Rate Rises Slightly to 5.7 Percent
AUSTIN — Texas’ seasonally adjusted nonagricultural employment grew by 7300 jobs in November. Texas employers now have added 221200 jobs in the past 12 months for an annual job growth rate of 2.1 percent. The United States recorded 1.9 million job losses during the same period for a negative annual job growth rate of -1.4 percent.
“Despite a slight increase in the unemployment rate statewide the falling unemployment rates in Southeast Texas reflect that those adversely affected by the impact of Hurricane Ike are getting back to work” said Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) Chairman Tom Pauken. “While Texas is holding our own compared to the national trends we continue to feel the impact of the U.S. and international economic downturn.”
Texas’ seasonally adjusted unemployment rate rose slightly to 5.7 percent in November up from 5.6 percent in October and 4.2 percent in November 2007. The U.S. seasonally adjusted unemployment rate climbed to 6.7 percent in November up from 6.5 percent in October and 4.7 percent a year ago.
The Midland MSA experienced the lowest unemployment rate in the state at 3.3 percent (not seasonally adjusted). The Odessa MSA was second at 3.9 percent followed by the Amarillo MSA at 4.0 percent.
Leisure and Hospitality gained 4300 positions in November for an industry gain of 38000 jobs in the past year. Education and Health Services grew by 2100 jobs this month adding 31700 jobs in the past 12 months.
“The Texas unemployment rate climbed slightly to 5.7 percent this month so we know many Texans are searching for work despite reported job growth” said TWC Commissioner Representing Labor Ronny Congleton. “Workforce centers across the state are ready to assist Texas workers with employment services such as résumé preparation as well as with WorkInTexas.com TWC’s online job-matching system.”
Natural Resources and Mining employment increased for the 14th consecutive month adding 1900 jobs in November with 17400 positions added over the year. The industry’s annual job growth rate is now at 8.2 percent.
“Our Texas employers still are adding jobs and continue to outperform the United States over the year” said TWC Commissioner Representing the Public Andres Alcantar. “Although we recorded a slight rise in the unemployment rate in November it is encouraging that a number of industries have been able to sustain job growth throughout the year.”
