La. Gains Jobs In 2010

Figures from the state Workforce Commission show, though, that Louisiana still had 42,200 fewer jobs last month than in December 2008 — three months after the national economic meltdown began. The figures are non-seasonally adjusted.

Louisiana lost 900 jobs last month and, on a seasonally adjusted basis, posted an 8 percent unemployment rate. That's down from 8.2 percent in November.

The national unemployment rate for December was 9.4 percent.

The New Orleans region led last year with a gain of 3,500 jobs. That was followed by Shreveport-Bossier City, Lafayette and Lake Charles.

Baton Rouge fell by an overall 300 jobs, while Monroe was the biggest loser with 900 jobs.