Texas unemployment rises to 6 percent

AUSTIN (KXAN) - For the first time since 2004, unemployment in Texas hits 6 percent. The recent numbers released from the Texas Workforce Commission Friday show the December numbers are up from November's unemployment rate of 5.7 percent and 4.2 percent from a year ago.

While the nation's unemployment rate climbed to 7.2 percent, Texas' unemployment rate has consistently remained well below the national rate for the past year. As for many in the Austin area, unemployment is now at 5.2 percent.

Many in Central Texas that need help finding a job are getting free help from Workforce Solutions. Staff members are on hand to help answer questions and fine-tune resumes for job seekers. Computers are also free to use at 6505 Airport Blvd. Just to keep up with the increased call volume of unemployment fillings, the Texas Workforce Commission has also added more than 330 new phone lines.

"Looking at the fourth quarter of 2007 of unemployment claims compared to the fourth quarter of 2008, we saw almost double," said Ann Hatchitt, with the Texas Workforce Commission.

On Jan. 27, Workforce Solutions will hold ajob fair at their North Austin location on Airport Boulevard. If you want to attend the job fair, you are encouraged to bring at least 12 copies of your resume.

Texas' seasonally adjusted nonagricultural employment fell by 25,700 jobs in December. Texas employers now have added 153,600 jobs in the past 12 months, compared with job losses of 2.6 million nationwide during the same period.

"Our state's economy has been fairly resilient during these months of economic uncertainty, but the national economic storm has reached Texas," said Texas Workforce Commission Chairman Tom Pauken. "The challenge we face now is to minimize the impact of the national trends by continuing to promote our strong business climate and address the skills needs of Texas employers."

Leisure and Hospitality gained 3,800 positions in December, for an industry gain of 31,800 jobs in the past year. Other Services, which includes automotive, electronic, and commercial repair and maintenance, grew by 1,600 jobs this month, adding 4,400 jobs in the past 12 months.

Texas saw broad industry losses in December. Hardest hit were Trade, Transportation, and Utilities and Manufacturing, with losses of 8,100 and 8,000 jobs, respectively. Texas' over-the-year figures fared better with nine of 11 industries posting positive job growth.

"The Texas unemployment rate continued to follow the national unemployment rate’s upward trend," said TWC Commissioner Representing Labor Ronny Congleton. "For the first time since 2004, our state hit the 6.0 percent unemployment mark after record lows of 4.2 percent just a year ago."

The Midland MSA experienced the lowest unemployment rate in the state at 3.1 percent (not seasonally adjusted). The Amarillo and Lubbock MSAs were second at 3.8 percent, followed by the Odessa MSA at 3.9 percent.

"Despite the loss of jobs in December, Texas employers have added a significant number of jobs in the past 12 months, while the United States has lost millions of jobs," said TWC Commissioner Representing the Public Andres Alcantar. "Our state leaders have laid a strong foundation for Texas as a business-friendly state with low taxes and less regulation, and that foundation will be crucial in the months ahead."