Stratford Unemployment Rate Rises as Labor Force Hits Year High

For the first time in 2013, Stratford’s labor force topped 27,000 in May, a month in which the town’s unemployment rate rose slightly to 8.7 percent, according to the latest figures from the state Department of Labor.

Stratford’s unemployment rate in April – when the labor force was 26,405 – came in at 8.4 percent, according to the state.

The town’s highest unemployment rate so far recorded in 2013 is 9.2 percent, in February, which coincides with the statewide trend.

“With the exception of a storm (that) impacted February, Connecticut has been experiencing consistent job growth so far this year,” Andy Condon, director of the Office of Research, said.

Condon continued, “The upward turn in labor force participation, after 35 straight months of decline, may indicate increased confidence in labor market conditions. However, there are still headwinds ahead. Federal budget sequester cuts could hinder employment growth possibilities throughout the rest of 2013.”

Connecticut’s unemployment rate in May was 8.1 percent.