Unemployment rates increased in many Michigan labor markets during December, with the Niles Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) experiencing a slight uptick in joblessness as the statewide labor picture showed signs of softening, according to data released by the Michigan Department of Technology, Management and Budget. Across Michigan’s labor market areas, not seasonally adjusted unemployment rates ranged from 4.0% to 7.6% in December, with most regions posting higher jobless rates compared with November. The changes reflect broader employment declines and a contraction in payroll jobs during the month, state officials said. “Most Michigan regional labor markets exhibited prominent employment decreases both over the month and over the year. Unemployment rates advanced in most areas in December but were down from the previous year” said Wayne Rourke, labor market information director for the Michigan Center for Data and Analytics.