Workforce Solutions of the Panhandle is reporting that the Texas Workforce Commission is confirming the impact of the Tyson Fresh Meats closure on our region. The January 2026 labor market data from TWC says the unemployment rate saw an upward shift following the reduction of approximately 1,700 positions. Despite this, the Texas Panhandle continues to maintain a lower unemployment rate than both the state and national averages. The Amarillo Unemployment Rate Increased to 3.3% in January 2026, up from 2.7% in December. Despite this shift, Amarillo continues to hold the #1 ranking among all Texas MSAs for the lowest unemployment rate. The Labor Force reached 105,863, reflecting a year-over-year expansion of 1,089 workers. Total employment stood at 102,378, an increase of 859 jobs compared to January 2025. A 3.3% rate remains historically tight. While the recent layoffs have increased the immediate pool of available labor, the city continues to operate in a highly competitive environment for specialized talent…