Connecticut employers added 4,600 jobs in November; unemployment rate increases slightly

Connecticut employers added 4,600 jobs last month, marking a new employment recovery high-point of nearly 1.7 million jobs, according to a state Department of Labor report released Thursday.

The department's monthly report said the number of nonfarm jobs increased by 25,700 positions since November 2013 to give Connecticut a new high mark. The state unemployment rate increased by one-tenth of a percentage point in November to 6.5 percent, but was still a full percentage point lower than the November unemployment rate of 7.5 percent a year ago.

The figures showed that five industry "super-sectors" gained jobs last month, led by professional, scientific and technical services.

"This report is another positive sign that we are making progress in our effort to create good paying jobs with good benefits for residents," said Gov. Dannel P. Malloy. "Labor force participation is up. We are seeing growth in nearly every sector of the economy."

Sen. Len Fasano, R-North Haven, the incoming Senate minority leader, said he's happy to see the state has gained jobs but Connecticut continues to lag behind the rest of the nation.

"Back in May, 2014, the national economy finally recovered all 9 million jobs lost during the Recession. But a rising tide does not lift all boats," Fasano said. "Connecticut has yet to recover all jobs lost in our state and over 122,000 people remain unemployed."

The Democratic governor said he hopes to work with the General Assembly during the upcoming legislative session to create more jobs. The session opens Jan. 1.