West Virginia Chamber of Commerce raises concerns over continued job losses

CHARLESTON, W.Va. (WV News) — The West Virginia Chamber of Commerce is raising concerns after a new report from WorkForce West Virginia showed the state’s labor force and employment continued to decline year-over-year in July 2025.

According to the report, the civilian workforce in West Virginia shrank by 7,600 people, from 787,600 in July 2024 to 780,000 in July 2025. Total employment also fell by 4,400 jobs during that period, from 755,300 to 750,900.

While the private sector saw a modest increase in employment from 565,900 to 567,500, key industries experienced job losses. Mining employment dropped from 21,300 to 20,700, and manufacturing dipped from 45,600 to 45,400. The hospitality industry saw a decline from 71,400 to 68,700, and retail employment decreased from 78,400 to 77,800.