(AREA) — Seasonally unadjusted unemployment rates in June edged up in 14 of the state’s 17 major labor market areas, according to the Michigan Department of Technology, Management & Budget. Total employment was down slightly over the month in most areas, while labor force levels were mixed. From May to June, jobless rates increased in 14 regions and declined in three. The numbers were up in the Thumb from May rates. Lapeer County saw the highest increase from 5.6 percent in May to 6.7 percent in June. St. Clair County jumped from 5.7 percent in May to 6.4 percent in June. Huron, Sanilac, and Tuscola counties were up slightly with 4.5, 5.4, and 5.5 percent unemployment in June. Forty-nine of Michigan’s 83 counties recorded jobless rate hikes over the month, while rates declined in 25 counties.
