By Staff
Alabama's unemployment rate fell to a new record low in October, Gov. Bob Riley announced last week.
The state's unemployment rate declined from 3.7 percent in September to 3.1 percent in October, the lowest monthly unemployment rate ever.
Although the overall average across the state dropped to record lows, Escambia County did not experience the same low numbers.
No specific reason was given to explain the current unemployment rate in the county.
A year ago, Alabama's unemployment rate stood at 3.6 percent.
Alabama's unemployment rate is still well below the national rate, which stood at 4.7 percent in October. The Escambia County rate is also below the national average.
During the past 12 months, employment gains in Alabama totaled 24,800.
Riley pointed to high oil prices and uncertainty in the housing market as two of the challenges currently facing the economy.
Riley says he will be once again urging state legislators to approve a package of tax incentives that will stimulate economic growth.