State’s unemployment rate steers down in April

State unemployment is in line with the U.S. rate, also 4.5 percent, the Missouri Department of Economic Development reported. It is down from 4.6 percent reported in Missouri in January and from the state’s 2006 average of 4.8 percent.

In April, Missouri had about 2.8 million jobs, with a loss of about 800.

Two industries were significantly affected by higher gasoline prices, according to a DED news release. Retail trade was down by 1,300 jobs, and accommodation and food services was down by 1,000.

Other industries also saw declines: manufacturing lost 900 jobs, health care and social assistance lost 700 jobs, and the information sector lost 600.

Gains were seen in local government, up 1,500 jobs in April; transportation, warehousing and utilities, up 600 jobs; and other services, which increased by 600 jobs.