SC unemployment rate hits record high

Posted: 01.22.2010 at 9:19 AM

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South Carolina's unemployment rate rose sharply in December to a record 12.6 percent.

COLUMBIA (AP) -- South Carolina's unemployment rate rose sharply in December to a record 12.6 percent.

The Employment Security Commission figures released Friday were up from November's 12.3 percent rate and came despite fewer people actively looking for work.

The commission noted December's labor force figures were the lowest since September 2008.

David Edellman is among South Carolina's unemployed. He's been out of the work force for two years because of a medical condition and now he can't find a job.

Edellman says he prays every night that he gets a job or "that God will take and let me go."

The state's Board of Economic Advisors this week noted South Carolina's employment picture was showing at best, small gains.

The biggest job losses came in leisure and hospitality business as they employed 5,200 fewer people. Manufacturers lost 800 jobs.

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