Construction employment rose in 35 states over the month and in 26 over the year.
Seasonally adjusted nonfarm payroll employment by state grew in 34 states from April to May, even though overall employment dropped, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported recently. But compared to May 2002, employment in May 2003 was lower in 28 states and the District of Columbia.
Construction employment fared a bit better, rising in 35 states over the month and in 26 over the year. The largest May-to-May construction gains were in Alaska, Colorado, and Georgia (+5 percent); the largest losses were in Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Wisconsin (-6 percent).