MI Jobless Rate Holds Steady

Michigan’s unemployment rate hasn’t changed in the past month and hasn’t varied much since last summer.

The state Department of Energy, Labor and Economic Growth says it was 14.1% in March.

That’s the same as February, but it’s up from 12.6% in March 2009.

Michigan is also in line for more than $150 million in federal housing assistance this year.

State officials say it could help as many as 17,000 families avoid foreclosure.

The state turned in its plan for using the money earlier today.

If Washington approves the plan, Michigan residents would be able to apply for help by mid-June.