Michigan's rate is now 9.3 percent
LANSING -- Michigan's unemployment rate in October took a major jump--up to 9.3 percent. That's the state's highest rate since July, 1992.
September's rate was 8.7 percent.
The state had the highest annual unemployment rate in 2006 and 2007 and is on track for that dubious honor again this year.
The Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Growth said the state has been hurt by the weakening of the national economy. Its work force has fallen by 74,000 people, or 1.5 percent, since October, 2007.
Trade, transportation, and utilities lost 5,000 jobs last month, while leisure and hospitality services lost 4,000 jobs.
The national jobless rate last month was 6.5 percent.