The unemployment rate in Wisconsin rose to 5.8 percent in December, according to a report from the Department of Workforce Development.
The rising unemployment in Wisconsin is part of a trend that began in Dec. 2007 when the nation officially entered a recession. Wisconsin lost a total of 62,600 non-farm jobs throughout 2008, according to the report.
Statewide unemployment went up 0.5 percentage points since November and 1.2 points since December 2007, according to the report. Meanwhile, nationwide unemployment remains higher, currently at 7.1 percent.
While our rate is below the national unemployment rate, we face major challenges. With a talented workforce and diverse economy, we will get through this,"" DWD Secretary Roberta Gassman said in the report.
According to DWD communications specialist Chris Marschman, the industry hit the worst since the recession began in December 2007 is manufacturing, which lost 26,500 jobs in the past year.
