State officials say Arkansas' unemployment rate rose slightly in August to 6.3 percent. It's the first time the state's jobless rate has increased in 2014.
The Arkansas Department of Workforce Services said Friday that August's rate crept up one-tenth of a percentage point over July's.
The agency says the civilian labor force declined by 2,100 during the period. Three industry sectors added jobs last month, with government positions increasing by 2,800 thanks to the start of the school year. Educational and health services added 1,300 jobs, while construction jobs increased by 1,300 as well.
Seven sectors posted declines last month, including a drop of 800 jobs in the trade, transportation and utilities sector and a loss of 500 jobs in leisure and hospitality.
