Idaho's jobless rate at 6.2 percent in February

Idaho's unemployment rate falls to 6.2 percent in February; rate is lowest since December 2008

BOISE, Idaho (AP) -- Idaho's unemployment rate continues to drop.

The Idaho Department of Labor said Friday that the seasonally adjusted unemployment rate for February came in at 6.2 percent, down one-tenth of a percent from the previous month and the lowest unemployment rate since December 2008.

Agency officials say Idaho employers in most private sector industries hired more workers than usual last month. In February, employers hired nearly 14,000 workers, topping the hiring level in February 2008. About half of those jobs are considered new jobs.

Still, statistics show total employment statewide declined by about 400. Department of Labor analysts say more workers may be leaving self-employment for more traditional jobs or taking on second jobs.

Only three Idaho counties— Adams, Benewah and Clearwater — posted double-digit unemployment rates during the month.