The Woodward News

Local News

July 24, 2012

Jobless rate drops

Gary Engel Woodward News

Woodward, Okla. —

Oklahoma's  unemployment rate decreased in June, according to recent numbers.

John Carpenter, Oklahoma Employment Security Commission Public Information Officer, said the statewide unemployment rate for June fell to 4.7 percent in June from 4.8 percent in May. The 4.7 percent is 1.4 percentage points lower than June 2011.

"Between the 2 months, 3,200 jobs were added and the number of those who were without jobs decreased by 340," Carpenter said.

Carpenter said there were 1,400 jobs added in the hospitality industry. The Oklahoma Employment Security Commission (OESC) said that can reflect filled positions in restaurants, hotels, casinos and other tourism-related positions.

Some 900 jobs were added in the financial services sector - banks, loan and finance companies, credit cards - and the construction industry put 800 people to work.

Carpenter said county rates would be released in a few days.

Nationally the unemployment rate for June was 8.2 percent, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Oklahoma's position was the 4th-lowest in the nation. South Dakota, Nebraska and North Dakota.

"Oklahoma's unemployment rate continues to outpace the national unemployment rate and is proof our pro-business polices are succeeding in creating a positive business environment for job creation and investment," said Gov. Mary Fallin.

The number of jobs added in Oklahoma is up over 30,000 from the same period last year, according to the BLS.

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