Politicians have been hesitant to declare a full economic recovery, but here’s more evidence that things are turning around (at least in Washington state). The unemployment rate fell again during the month of February, dropping to 8.2 percent as the state added 4,200 jobs. In a report today, the state’s Employment Security Department said that it is part of the region’s “gradual climb up the employment ladder.”

It also marks the lowest unemployment rate in the state since January 2009. Because of the improving economic picture, the state also announced today that it plans to reduce the maximum weeks of unemployment benefits from 99 weeks to 73 weeks. Those changes will take effect next month.

Interestingly, the information category — where a number of technology jobs get classified — actually shed 500 jobs during the month. As we’ve reported in the past, a number of technology companies are struggling to find top engineers and designers, creating a talent war of sorts among companies.

Amazon.com, F5 Networks, Tableau Software and others in the region all have been hiring at a rapid pace in the region.

Government was the biggest loser in terms of jobs this past month, down 1,400. The biggest industries for job growth were leisure and hospitality (up 2,500); construction (up 1,900); and retail trade (up 1,700).

Since the low point in the recession, the state has regained about 90,900 jobs, the state said. In Seattle, the economic picture is even brighter, with an unemployment rate that stands at 7.4 percent. That compares to 8.9 percent for the same period last year.

Full economic report here.

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