Colorado Unemployment Rate Exceeds Nation's In January

Colorado's unemployment rate climbed above the national average for the first time in years this January, according to new data released by the state.

The unemployment rate in Colorado rose to 9.1 percent in January, up 0.3 percent from December, 2010. Meanwhile, the nation's January unemployment rate stood at 9.0 percent, down from 9.8 percent in December.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Colorado's unemployment rate was the highest in the state since 1976.

24 states saw a decrease in unemployment in January.

KMGH cites the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment in reporting that private sector sector jobs increased by 5,000 in January 2011, but government jobs decreased by 2,800.

"While there is job growth, it is not enough to keep pace with the number of people who need jobs," said Bill Thoennes, spokesman for the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment, said Thursday.

The unemployment rate in Colorado Springs jumped from 9.5 percent in December to 10.2 percent in January.

The Colorado Department of Labor and Employment will release its report for the month of February on March 25.