INLAND EMPIRE – Joblessness across the inland region ended a 5-month decline with a year-opening increase in January.

The State Employment Development Department said Friday the rate moved back up to 12.4 percent as seasonal workers employed for the holidays were laid off.

But when compared to the 12-month trend, the Inland Empire added 19,400 jobs. Professional and business services led all industries in job growth.

Construction is no longer the biggest loser. Most job losses last year were in local government which accounted for almost 73 percent of all job cutbacks.

Compared to a year ago, 81,300 more people are working and 24,300 fewer people are looking for jobs in the Inland Empire. (INT)

Story Date: March 13, 2012