Texas unemployment rate drops...

Straight from the Texas Workforce Commission...

Texas Unemployment Rate Drops to 8.2 Percent in June

Texas employers add 166,100 jobs since January

AUSTIN —Texas seasonally adjusted unemployment rate dropped to 8.2 percent in June, down from

8.3 percent in May, and continued to trend well below the U.S. seasonally adjusted unemployment rate of

9.5 percent for the same month. Texas total nonagricultural employment grew by 14,000 jobs in June for a total of 166,100 jobs gained since the beginning of 2010.

“Texas employment has grown every month in 2010,” said Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) Chairman Tom Pauken. “Notably, Texas employers in goods producing industries added jobs in the month of June, which included gains in Manufacturing, Construction, and Mining and Logging.”

The Education and Health Services industry recorded the highest increase in June, with 8,900 jobs added, followed by Professional and Business Services, which increased by 8,600 jobs.

“While I am encouraged by the decrease in the Texas unemployment rate, times are tough for Texas workers and their families,” said TWC Commissioner Representing Labor Ronny Congleton. “Job seekers should turn to WorkInTexas.com and our workforce centers across Texas for reemployment and support services.”

In June, Manufacturing added 5,700 jobs, Construction grew by 4,800 jobs, and Mining and Logging increased by 2,900 jobs. Employment in the Trade, Transportation and Utilities industry was up by 3,000 jobs, and Information added 800 jobs.

“Seven industries added jobs in June including Professional and Business Services, Manufacturing, and Construction – that’s positive news for Texans seeking new opportunities,” said TWC Commissioner Representing the Public Andres Alcantar. “TWC and the 28 local workforce boards are committed to helping job seekers find these opportunities, and to helping employers with an array of services they need to run their businesses.”

The Midland Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) had the lowest unemployment rate in the state at 5.9 percent. The Amarillo MSA had the second lowest unemployment rate in June at 6.0 percent, followed by the Lubbock MSA at 6.7 percent (not seasonally adjusted).