The Federal Reserve's Beige Book indicates that there has been little change in employment conditions since the last report. Most regions reported stable employment, with three regions reporting slight to moderate job growth and two regions reporting a slight decline in employment. Many regions noted a decrease in employee turnover and an increase in applicants for vacant positions. There were widespread comments about uncertainty causing delays in hiring. All regions mentioned a decline in labor demand, citing reasons such as reduced working hours and overtime, hiring freezes, and layoff plans. Some regions reported layoffs in certain industries, but these layoffs were not widespread. Two regions pointed out that for many respondents, hiring plans have not changed since the beginning of the year. Wages continue to grow at a moderate pace, although many regions reported that wage pressures have generally eased. A few regions indicated that rising living costs continue to exert upward pressure on wages.