From STAFF REPORTS

South Carolina's unemployment rate dropped to 6.9 percent in November after reaching a nine-year high of 7.1 percent in October, the Employment Security Commission reported.

Chesterfield County's jobless rate experienced a slight decrease, dropping to 11.1 percent in November from 11. 6 percent in October.

Marlboro County's rate dropped one percent - from 19.4 to 18.4 percent, but our neighboring county still remains in the top spot for the state's unemployment ratings by county. Chesterfield County is ranked 10th.

According to Employment Security Commission officials, the state's decline was the result of a sharp drop in the number of individuals looking for work during the month. The number of entrants to the labor force was unusually high in October, causing a temporary spike in the unemployment rate. The number of non-farm jobs also dropped (-4,400), reflecting the first decline in November since 1992.

The state's heavy reliance on the manufacturing sector is hindering employment growth and keeping the state from fully participating in the nationwide recovery, according to the commission. Factory jobs in the state have declined in each of the past 12 months. The last time manufacturing realized an employment increase was in August 2002. Retail sales and hiring for the holiday season should provide some boost to the economy in December. However, early indicators are that hiring this season may be less than previously anticipated.