LANSING, Mich. (AP) — Michigan’s jobless rate was unchanged at 4.5 percent in August from July, remaining at its lowest level in 15 years.

The Michigan Department of Technology, Management & Budget says that total employment recorded a reduction of 7,000 in August as the state’s labor force decreased by 5,000. The number of unemployed in Michigan rose by 2,000.

Michigan seasonally adjusted jobless rate in August was below the state’s August 2015 rate of 5.1 percent. The U.S. jobless rate was unchanged at 4.9 percent in August.

Jason Palmer, director of the Bureau of Labor Market Information and Strategic Initiatives, says Wednesday the state’s labor market situation was stable.

Gov. Rick Snyder says in a statement Michigan needs to “continue our efforts to strengthen our workforce and create more opportunities for all Michiganders.”