California jobless rate rises to 12.1 percent

LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- California has the second highest unemployment rate in the nation, according to a report released on Friday by the state Employment Development Department.

In August, the jobless rate increased to 12.1 percent, which is up from 12 percent in July.

According to the report, nonfarm payroll jobs fell by 8,400, while the construction industry had the biggest decrease, down 7,200 jobs.

Six categories lost 17,500 jobs: construction; information; financial activities; educational and health services; other services; and government.

Five categories added 9,100 jobs last month. They were mining and logging; manufacturing; trade, transportation and utilities; professional and business services; and leisure and hospitality.

California comes in second only to Nevada. Nationwide, the unemployment rate remains at 9.1 percent for the second straight month.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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