The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that, while overall unemployment rates were little changed, the situation worsened in 44 states last month. Puerto Rico and Nevada continue to have the worst of it, with unemployment rates of 13.7% and 12%, respectively.

Northern states with rich natural resources have experienced an industry boom, especially in North Dakota. With it, Nebraska, Oklahoma, South Dakota and Iowa are all hanging onto remarkably low unemployment rates fueled by growth in energy sectors.

California, Michigan, New York, Arizona, Alaska, Louisiana, and Maine are all suffering worse unemployment rates than they were a year ago.

Tags: California, Employment, Louisiana, Michigan, Nevada, New York, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics