business
US filings for unemployment aid fall to 187,000 last week, fewest since 1969
Summary by The Waco Editorial Desk · Based on reporting by AP via Scripps News Group , KXXV (ABC 25) News
· July 23, 2026
· 3 min read
U.S. applications for jobless benefits tumbled to the lowest level in more than five decades last week as layoffs remain historically low despite global economic uncertainty. The number of Americans applying for unemployment benefits in the week ending July 18 declined by 22,000 to 187,000, the L...
Story provenance No corrections
Summary created by The Waco Editorial Desk — automated, rule-governed Original reporting AP via Scripps News Group, KXXV (ABC 25) News Original story Read at the source Source published Jul 23, 2026 Indexed here Jul 23, 2026 AI assistance Automated summary drawn from the source’s own published text Prepublication human review No — editorial rules, flagged-item review, and published samples
Every story comes with a passport. How we work · Corrections log
Key takeaway The number of Americans applying for unemployment benefits in the week ending July 18 declined by 22,000 to 187,000, the Labor Department reported Thursday.
Why this matters in The Waco
For Waco residents, the historically low unemployment claims nationwide could have a positive ripple effect on the local job market. As layoffs remain low, it's likely that major employers in McLennan County will continue to hire and retain workers, contributing to the area's economic stability. However, the potential impact of rising oil prices on local businesses, particularly those reliant on fuel, is a concern. With gas prices exceeding $4 a gallon, companies may need to adjust their budgets, which could eventually affect hiring decisions. The recent June jobs report showing slower hiring and higher long-term unemployment is a reminder that the local economy is not immune to national trends. As the situation with oil prices and global economic uncertainty evolves, Waco's business community will be watching closely to see how these factors influence the local labor market and economy. Local leaders may need to consider strategies to support businesses affected by rising energy costs.
About this story
Original reporting by KXXV (ABC 25) News . The Waco surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit KXXV (ABC 25) News . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: business ·
Published: July 23, 2026 ·
Source: KXXV (ABC 25) News ·
Reading time: 3 min
Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? U.S. applications for jobless benefits tumbled to the lowest level in more than five decades last week as layoffs remain historically low despite global economic uncertainty. The number of Americans applying for unemployment benefits in the week ending July 18 declined by 22,000 to 187,000, the L...
When was this published? This article was first published on July 23, 2026 by KXXV (ABC 25) News and curated for The Waco readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by AP via Scripps News Group at KXXV (ABC 25) News. To learn more about how The Waco selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more business coverage from The Waco, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
← Back to all news
More business →
Today’s briefing
Subscribe to newsletter