MONTANA –Montana’s unemployment rate decreased by 0.1 percentage points to 3.6% in the month of May. The national unemployment rate was flat at 3.6% over the month.

“Montana’s economy continues to grow despite tight labor markets,” said Governor Bullock. “Businesses are innovating, and workers are updating their skills to increase productivity. We must continue our commitment to advancing worker skills in in-demand fields and look for other ways to bring more workers into our labor force.”

Total employment, which included agricultural, payroll and self-employed workers, indicated a gain of 535 jobs. With only 109 added to the labor force over the month, Montana’s labor market continued to tighten. Payroll employment increased by 800 jobs over the month, with job gains in federal government and accommodations & food service.

The Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U) increased 0.1% in May, with gasoline prices falling by 0.5% and other prices gently increasing. The index for all items less food and energy, also called core inflation, increased by 0.1%.