SHREVEPORT, La. (KSLA) – Louisiana has led the nation in population loss for the past two years, a concerning statistic for residents of the Pelican State.
The decline stems from major employer departures and insufficient job growth compared to national averages. Over the last decade, Louisiana has lost significant employers including GM, Luke Battery, and Libby Glass.
“Over the last decade we have lost major employers: GM, Luke Battery, Libby Glass… These were companies that I call were hiring ‘blue collar’ workers, paying them very good hourly wages,” said State Senator Sam Jenkins.
Shreveport metro sees significant decline
The Shreveport metro population has dropped from 200,000 to 170,000. Jenkins said workforce development efforts must continue in the area…