Wisconsin’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate continues to hold steady at 3.3%, according to the data released by the Department of Workforce Development.

The labor force increased by 2,200 workers in December, and there were more than 80,000 more workers in the labor force over the previous year.  Over 42,700 more jobs than a year ago, an increase of 4,800 over the previous month.

Based on data provided by the Department of Labor, Wisconsin’s non-farm jobs reached a record high for the second month as private sector jobs increased by 1,700 over the previous month and 34,400 over the year.

The data shows healthcare and social assistance added 12,400 more jobs over the year, while construction-related jobs increased by 1,000 over the month and 5,200 over the year.

According to recent studies by NFIB’s Research Center, small business owners say the number one problem facing their business is the labor market.

Holly Wade, Research Director of NFIB’s Research Center, reported “NFIB studies show one in five small business owners are saying that the number one problem facing their business is the labor market.  We are seeing historically high levels of job openings in the small business sector.”