Unemployment rate nearly doubles in Emporia after closure of Tyson food plant

EMPORIA (KSNT) - The City of Emporia is still feeling the aftereffects of a major plant closure as local workers look for new jobs.

The Kansas Department of Labor (KDOL) recently issued its May 2025 labor report which shows employment/unemployment statistics across the state. This report also includes data for the City of Emporia which is still recovering from the closure of the Tyson Fresh Meats plant.

The City of Emporia's unemployment rate has risen to 5.7% in May this year following the closure of the plant...