CONCORD – Governor John Lynch today announced New Hampshire's unemployment rate dropped to 5.1 percent in December, down from 5.2 percent in November. The national rate was 8.5 percent for December.

New Hampshire has the fourth lowest unemployment rate in the nation.

"This further decrease in New Hampshire's unemployment rate is clear evidence that our economic strategy is working. Our unemployment rate remains 40 percent below the national average, and we are seeing more New Hampshire residents going back to work," Governor Lynch said. "While the decrease in the unemployment rate and increase in number of New Hampshire people working is great news for our state, we must be mindful that more than 38,000 New Hampshire citizens are still looking for work. As Governor, my focus continues to be improving our economy, keeping New Hampshire one of the most business-friendly states in the nation and helping businesses create jobs."