In Address to Economic Developers, Alabama Governor Kay Ivey Pledges to Focus on Labor Participation

By Michael Tomberlin Alabama News Center Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey told economic developers this week that Alabama’s low labor participation rate is getting her attention and hinted it will be a part of her upcoming State of the State address and this year’s legislative session. In her luncheon address at the Economic Development Association of Alabama’s 2024 Winter Conference on Jan. 30, Ivey noted Alabama’s low unemployment rate is a point of pride but the fact that nearly 43% of the population is not participating in the workforce is a concern. Labor force participation measures the number of people who could work against those who are working or seeking work. The number can include early retirees, stay-at-home spouses or parents, those with disabilities or their caregivers. But it also includes those who can’t get access to childcare, affordable housing or transportation. “I’m excited to usher in a fresh approach from the Ivey administration to better serve Alabama employers and job seekers,” Ivey told economic developers. “We can do more to ensure our systems are efficient and effective and this coming legislative session, we will do just that.” Ivey stopped short of providing details but hinted the issue could be part...