News Summary
The state of Louisiana is launching the ‘One Door’ policy to streamline access to employment and social services. Under Workforce Commission Secretary Susana Schowen’s leadership, the initiative promises to simplify the help process for job seekers and residents. This comprehensive strategy will incorporate various support services and enhance the state’s workforce development, including a rebranding to ‘Louisiana Works’ by 2025. The policy aims to address the current labor market needs, fostering better connections between training programs and job opportunities amidst a backdrop of low unemployment rates.
New Orleans, Louisiana – Louisiana is set to transform its workforce development strategy with the introduction of the “One Door” policy, aimed at providing streamlined access to employment and social services for its residents. This initiative, led by Workforce Commission Secretary Susana Schowen, marks a significant shift in how the state approaches workforce assistance and is supported through new laws signed unanimously by Governor Jeff Landry.
The Workforce Commission will serve as a one-stop shop for essential services, offering a wide range of support programs including the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), child care assistance, workforce training, and unemployment benefits. The goal of this initiative is to simplify the process for individuals seeking help, ensuring that they have access to essential resources all in one location.
As part of the long-term plan, the Workforce Commission will undergo a rebranding to become Louisiana Works by October 2025, which will signal a new identity as the agency enhances its services to better meet the needs of the community. Full implementation of the “One Door” policy will take additional time, with plans set for the Department of Children and Family Services to transfer management of Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) funds to Schowen’s agency by 2027.
The initiative emphasizes a case management system designed to assist individuals in achieving self-sufficiency. Key support services to be offered under the “One Door” policy include assistance with child care, transportation, disability support, tuition for training programs, and housing stability. This comprehensive approach aims to address the varying needs of those seeking employment and social services.
As of June 2025, Louisiana’s unemployment rate stood at 4.5%, indicating a low unemployment level that often suggests a state of full employment. With approximately 93,000 residents unemployed and 114,000 job openings reported, the data highlights a significant disparity between labor supply and demand. The state has a labor force participation rate of about 58%, which is below the national average, further emphasizing the need for workforce development initiatives.
According to the Greater Baton Rouge Industry Alliance, there is an anticipated need for 70,000 skilled tradespeople in Louisiana over the next five years. These sectors include high-demand fields such as healthcare, welding, construction, plumbing, and technology. Following the trajectory of these industries is crucial to aligning training programs with the current labor market needs.
The Louisiana Workforce Commission has indicated an expected 4% growth in employment by 2032, based on workforce projections. Currently, the healthcare industry employs over 300,000 individuals, with growth anticipated specifically within ambulatory healthcare services. Local workforce boards are actively engaging community stakeholders to promote job readiness and ensure opportunities for high-wage employment among residents.
Governor Landry’s administration is directing efforts to enhance collaboration with businesses, educational institutions, and local development boards to create a more responsive workforce system. This is seen as essential to effectively connecting young people with job opportunities, and enhancing work-based learning programs, such as internships and apprenticeships, remains a priority.
Additionally, the role of the Second Injury Board, which is part of the workers’ compensation system, supports employers in hiring previously injured workers by providing incentives and protection measures. This initiative aims to foster an inclusive workforce that can benefit both employees and employers.
With comprehensive steps being taken under the “One Door” policy, Louisiana is determined to reshape its workforce development landscape and improve access to vital services, all while responding to the evolving needs of the labor market.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- NOLA: Susana Schowen on Louisiana’s Workforce Challenges
- Business Report: Louisiana Jobless Claims Fall
- WAFB: Blue Cross Confirms Job Cuts in Louisiana
- KNOE: Louisiana Workforce Commission Employment Projections
- Biz New Orleans: Changes to Unemployment Insurance Benefits
- Wikipedia: Workforce Development
- Google Search: Louisiana Workforce Development
- Google Scholar: Louisiana Workforce Challenges
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Workforce
- Google News: Louisiana Employment News
Author: STAFF HERE NEWORLEANS WRITER
NEW ORLEANS STAFF WRITER The NEW ORLEANS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENewOrleans.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in New Orleans, Orleans Parish, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as French Quarter Festival, New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, and Essence Music Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the New Orleans Chamber of Commerce and Greater New Orleans, Inc., plus leading businesses in energy, healthcare, and education that power the local economy such as Entergy, Ochsner Health, and Tulane University. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREShreveport.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Louisiana's dynamic landscape.
