New Mexico's jobless rate edges up slightly
New Mexico unemployment rate rises slightly in July to 6.9 percent, up from June's 6.8 percent
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) -- State officials report that New Mexico's unemployment increased slightly last month and that job growth remains slow.
The Department of Workforce Solutions said Monday that the seasonally adjusted unemployment rate was 6.9 percent in July. It was 6.8 percent in June and 7.0 percent in July 2012.
State officials say New Mexico has gained 8,800 jobs since July 2012, with a job growth rate of 1.1 percent.
Nine industries added employment over the past 12 months while four industries shed jobs.
The leisure and hospitality industry accounted for the largest increase, picking up 4,500 jobs since last year.
Officials say the construction industry continued to report the best over-the-year numbers since 2006, gaining 1,800 jobs.
Manufacturing employment lost 1,000 jobs while government employment is down 3,700 jobs since last year.
