MetroNews reports on NFIB’s April jobs report, which shows small businesses in West Virginia continue to struggle to find workers as labor shortages persist. NFIB West Virginia State Director Gil White spoke to MetroNews and said, “For small business owners to continue to operate and provide services throughout the state of West Virginia and every community, they need a workforce, and that is a challenge right now, to say the least.”

He also emphasized the importance of education to address the workforce gaps.

“Whatever your dream is that you follow, you need to have a strong education,” said White, adding that policy support would also help. “Hopefully we will find tremendous support from our legislators,” said White.

Meanwhile, 33% of small business owners reported raising compensation in April to attract workers. A net 17% plan to raise wages in the next three months, the lowest since March 2021.

View the full jobs report here.