Arkansas' seasonally adjusted unemployment rate was unchanged at 3.9 percent in July, according to a report Friday by the state Department of Workforce Services.
Arkansas' June unemployment rate was revised from 3.8 percent to 3.9 percent, the report said. The unemployment rate in July 2015 was 4.9 percent.
"Arkansas' jobless rate remained stable between June and July, mirroring the trend seen at the national level," Bureau of Labor Statistics Program Operations Manager Susan Price said. "Compared to July 2015, the unemployment rate is down one and three-tenths of a percentage point."
The report shows the civilian labor force declined from June by 2,430 — the result of 2,700 fewer employed and 270 more unemployed Arkansans. The U.S. jobless rate was unchanged in July at 4.9 percent.
Since July 2015, Arkansas' civilian labor force has grown by more than 28,800 people, the report said.
Nonfarm payroll jobs in Arkansas declined by 16,700 in July compared to the previous month to total 1.2 million. Six major industry sectors decreased, more than offsetting gains in three sectors.
Seasonal losses occurred in local (10,600) and state (1,700) government, related to summer break at public schools.
Jobs in trade, transportation and utilities declined by 2,300. A majority of the decrease was in retail trade (1,400), attributed to losses at various retail establishments.
Construction added 1,200 jobs, related to seasonal hiring and on-going large-scale projects.
Compared to July 2015, Arkansas' nonfarm payroll jobs increased by 21,300. Growth was reported in eight major industry sectors, while two decreased.
Professional and business services added 9,100 jobs. Jobs in educational and health services rose by 6,600. Jobs in manufacturing declined by 1,300 and mining and logging lost 1,200 jobs, attributed to recent layoffs and closures.