State unemployment rate climbs again

The unemployment rate for December was 9.8 percent, up from 9.7 percent in November, according to the state Employment Security Commission. In December 2009, the statewide unemployment rate was 10.9 percent.

"Over the past year, there was a gain of 10,400 jobs, with many of the job sectors experiencing gains. Consistent growth throughout these sectors will be the key to gaining back jobs lost during the recession," ESC Chairwoman Lynn Holmes said in a statement.

Seasonally adjusted non-farm employment increased to 3,896,700 in December. The largest increase occurred in the professional and business services sector, which added 3,600 jobs, while the largest decrease was in construction, which lost 3,900 jobs.

The leisure and hospitality sector shed 2,300 jobs in December, while manufacturing added 1,400 and trade, transportation and utilities added 1,300.

The number of initial claims filed in North Carolina for unemployment benefits increased in December to 83,358.