Unemployment Rate Goes Back Up

Sonora, CA — The unemployment rate edged upwards last month in the Mother Lode.

Tuolumne County’s rate went from 12.3 percent in November to 12.8 percent in December. During that same span, Calaveras County increased from 13.9 percent to 14.1 percent.

Statewide, the jobless rate fell from 11.3 percent to 11.1 percent. Sectors that were hiring in December included construction, information, health, education and government. Areas that posted job declines included logging/mining, trade, transportation and hospitality/leisure. The statistics were compiled by the California Employment Development Department.