Surprise layoffs hit Nebraska as an unexpected company downsizes

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In a recent development, Wellpath has announced layoffs affecting 64 employees in Omaha, Nebraska, following a change in contract that necessitated the closure of its healthcare operations at a specific location.

In a letter addressed to its employees, Wellpath expressed regret over the unforeseen circumstances leading to this decision. Due to the abrupt contract change, affected employees will be separated from employment between August 31, 2024, and September 14, 2024, with the separation expected to be permanent.

The company cited the unforeseeable business circumstance as grounds for not providing the full 60 days' notice required under the Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) Act. Unfortunately, this means there are no bumping rights for the impacted employees, preventing them from displacing more junior colleagues from their positions.

This news adds to a list of other companies in Nebraska that have also announced layoffs this year, including Global Industries, Inc., Bimbo Bakeries USA Inc., Garner Industries, Student Transportation of America (STA), Inc., and Cardinal Health. Each of these instances reflects ongoing economic challenges impacting various sectors across the state.

As affected employees navigate this transition, the community and stakeholders are watching closely to see how these changes will impact local employment and the broader economic landscape in Nebraska.