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Workers keep leaving the US labor force. Experts can't agree why
By Rachel Barber USA Today at Waco Tribune-Herald
· July 12, 2026
· 1 min read
Whether it was caregiving responsibilities, feeling discouraged after a long stretch of unemployment or the realization they’re sitting on a pile of money, many Americans have left the workforce.
Why this matters in The Waco
The trend of workers leaving the US labor force has significant implications for Waco 's economy. As a substantial portion of the population steps out of the workforce, local businesses may face challenges in finding skilled labor, potentially hindering growth. This shift also affects the community's overall productivity and competitiveness, making it crucial for local leaders to develop strategies that attract and retain workers. The exodus from the workforce can lead to reduced consumer spending, influencing the viability of local businesses and the overall tax base.
About this story
Original reporting by Waco Tribune-Herald . 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 Waco Tribune-Herald . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: local ·
Published: July 12, 2026 ·
Source: Waco Tribune-Herald ·
Reading time: 1 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? Whether it was caregiving responsibilities, feeling discouraged after a long stretch of unemployment or the realization they’re sitting on a pile of money, many Americans have left the workforce.
When was this published? This article was first published on July 12, 2026 by Waco Tribune-Herald and curated for The Waco readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Rachel Barber USA Today at Waco Tribune-Herald. To learn more about how The Waco selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more local coverage from The Waco, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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