Georgia Labor Commissioner Mark Butler said Thursday that Middle Georgia’s labor force increased in June.

"We are continuing to see an increase in the number of jobs available and very few actual reported layoffs through the WARN system, both good signs of an improving economy,” said Commissioner of Labor Mark Butler. “We must continue to work together to connect those seeking work with the many jobs available that offer stable salaries and competitive benefits.”

In Middle Georgia, the unemployment rate increased in June to 4.6 percent, an increase of five-tenths percentage points. A year ago, the rate was 7.6 percent.

The labor force increased in June by 274 to 222,537. That number is up 8,122 over-the-year.

Middle Georgia ended June with 212,196 employed residents.  The number decreased by 910 in June but was up 14,089 as compared to last year.

Initial claims for unemployment increased by 11 percent in June. When compared to last June, claims were down about 79 percent.

Employ Georgia, the GDOL’s online job listing service at employgeorgia.com showed 5,557 active job postings in Middle Georgia for June.

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