By JIM FARIS
Missouri's job market took a hit in March, per reports from Missouri Economic Research and Information Center.
Payroll employment fell by 3,200 jobs over the month, bringing total employment to below 3 million. The unemployment rate held at 3.9%, slightly lower than a year ago.
Government employment added 200 jobs, with the private sector dropping 3,400. The largest gains were in hospitality, at 3,000, and construction, adding 1,100. Business services lost the most jobs, at 3,500, with losses also in manufacturing, healthcare, and trade work.
The number of unemployed Missourians currently sits at just over 122,000.