Michigan's unemployment rate: 15.2 percent

The state's jobless rate remained relatively flat in August, climbing two-tenths of a percentage point to 15.2 percent, according to data released this afternoon by the Michigan Department of Labor & Economic Growth.

That number is up from 8.6 percent in August 2008, but represents relative stability since June.

According to a release from the state: “After showing large monthly jumps in the first half of 2009, Michigan’s unemployment rate remained steady during the summer months,” said Rick Waclawek, director of DELEG’s Bureau of Labor Market Information and Strategic Initiatives. “However, payroll jobs in 2009 continue to decline, led by job cuts in the manufacturing sector.”

The latest number for theÂ Ann Arbor areaÂ was 10.3 percent, recorded in July and reported in late August.

Also according to the state:

Â· In the first half of the year, monthly unemployment rate increases averaged seven-tenths of a percentage point.

Â· The 22,000 drop in the state’s labor force in August was the largest monthly decline since January. From January to July, Michigan workforce levels were relatively stable.

Â· Total employment in Michigan has fallen for 27 consecutive months since May 2007.

Â· Since August 2008, the number of Michigan unemployed residents increased by 74 percent, while total employment dropped by 8.9 percent. Nationally, the number of unemployed rose by 56.3 percent, and employment fell by 3.9 percent during this period.

The state should be posting the full press release to its DLEG website.