Indiana government layoffs affect workforce and unemployment programs

Budget reductions reasoning behind the layoffs

INDIANAPOLIS — The state government has laid off 123 employees in the department that works to strengthen Indiana’s workforce by connecting job seekers with employers and providing resources for training and career development.

The department blamed budget reductions at the state and federal levels for reductions that are now completed.

The layoffs affected 18 administrators, 48 people in workforce programs, and 57 people in unemployment programs.

The statement added, “The decision to reduce staff was made with great care and consideration. Our teams work with Hoosiers every day — including those navigating unemployment — and that perspective helped guide our decision-making process.”

Josh Richardson, is commissioner of the department.

Before the cutbacks, the agency reported having more than 900 employees.