Western Washington faces economic instability from layoffs

Western Washington is facing economic concerns as major employers, including Starbucks and Boeing, have announced layoffs. A total of 4,226 layoffs have been reported to the Washington Employment Security Department, with federal layoffs also increasing this year. The unemployment rate in Washington is currently 4.3%, slightly lower than last year but higher than the national average of 4.1%. Economists express worries about the slowing growth in key sectors like Information Technology and Leisure and Hospitality. The Washington Employment Security Department is working to connect laid-off workers with new job opportunities. They are offering resources, including webinars and training, to help those affected by the layoffs.