The Texas unemployment rate for August rose slightly to 8.3 percent, up from 8.2 percent in July. The Texas unemployment rate continued to trend well below the U.S. unemployment rate for August of 9.6 percent. Total Texas nonfarm employment was down by 34,200 jobs due to a loss of Government jobs, although Texas nongovernment jobs increased in August.

"Texas annual job gains have been broad-based with most major industries experiencing positive job growth," said Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) Chairman Tom Pauken. "More temporary workers in Texas hired by the federal government for the 2010 Census were dropped from government payrolls in August. That contributed to a decrease of 35,300 government jobs during that month, thus resulting in overall Texas job losses in August."

Education and Health Services grew by 12,400 positions in August, and Professional and Business Services increased by 4,100 jobs over the month, representing the eighth consecutive month of employment gains in this industry.

"Texas job growth over the year represents opportunities for Texas workers," said TWC Commissioner Representing Labor Ronny Congleton. "However, for those individuals still looking for work and especially for those who no longer have access to unemployment benefits, the job-search situation remains frustrating. TWC workforce centers across the state can assist with WorkInTexas.com and other job-search services."

Information industry employment, including media and telecommunications carriers, increased by 900 jobs in August, and the employment in the Manufacturing industry grew by 1,300 jobs over the month.

"Job gains in Education and Health Services, Mfg. and Professional and Business Srvs. are encouraging to Texans seeking employment," said TWC Cmsr. Representing the Public Andres Alcantar. "While the unemployment rate remains more than a full percentage point below the national rate, TWC and Texas Workforce Solutions remain committed to assisting job seekers and employers across the state."

The Midland Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) had the lowest unemployment rate in the state at 5.6 percent. The Amarillo MSA had the second lowest unemployment rate in August at 5.7 percent, followed by the Lubbock MSA at 6.4 percent (not seasonally adjusted).

The Texas Workforce Commission is a state agency dedicated to helping Texas employers, workers and communities prosper economically. For details on TWC call (512) 463-8556 or visit www.texasworkforce.org.