In this issue:
- July unemployment holds at 4.6%
- Local government signatures bill signed into law
- IDOT looking for winter snow removal operators
- Sweet corn for food banks
July unemployment holds at 4.6%
Data from the Illinois Department of Employment Security released last week shows that there was only a slight change in total nonfarm payrolls in Illinois, declining by 2500 to a total of 6,165,600. The June report was revised slightly downward, switching from a gain of 9400 jobs to a loss of 2300. The state’s unemployment rate held steady at 4.6%
The largest jobs increases in July were in Construction (up 2900), Trade, Transportation and Utilities (up 1700), and Private Education and Health Services (up 1100). The losses were in fields such as Professional and Business Services (down 3500), Government (down 2900) and Leisure and Hospitality (down 1200).
The national unemployment rate rose slightly in July, going from 4.1% up to 4.2%.
Local government signatures bill signed into law
A bill I sponsored this spring along with Senator Chris Balkema to allow local governments to embrace modern signature technology was signed into law on Friday.
Senate Bill 2044 changes state law to permit local governments to use a web-based signature so long as they are using a secure web-based platform. It applies to counties, townships, municipalities, park districts, conservation districts and other units of local governments who choose to utilize this option. This change will streamline processes for communities and residents.
The bill passed both houses unanimously.
IDOT looking for winter snow removal operators
It may be hot this week, but in just a few short months, the snow will be falling, and winter weather will be here before we know it! The Illinois Department of Transportation is already preparing for the season and is looking for dedicated individuals to join their team as winter snow-and-ice removal operators. These positions play a vital role in keeping our roads clear and safe for drivers during snowstorms, icy conditions, and other winter hazards.
Opportunities are available at locations throughout the district, with responsibilities that include operating snowplows and other heavy equipment, spreading salt and other de-icing materials, and performing basic maintenance on vehicles. These seasonal positions often provide valuable experience for those interested in transportation or public works careers, and they offer a chance to make a direct impact on community safety during challenging weather conditions.
If you are dependable, comfortable working in cold and snowy environments, and have a commercial driver’s license (or are able to obtain one), this could be a great way to earn extra income this winter while serving your community. Check out the Illinois Department of Transportation’s website for current openings and application details and get ready to be part of the team that keeps Illinois moving all winter long!
Sweet corn for food banks
Recently our family and friends came together for a wonderful day in the fields, picking sweet corn for our donation to the Chicagoland food banks.
The weather was perfect, the company was even better, and the rows of golden corn stood ready for harvest. Laughter and conversation filled the air as we worked side by side, filling the basket with fresh ears. We gathered a generous amount to share, knowing it would go to families in need. It was not only a fun and fulfilling experience, but also a reminder of the power of community and the joy that comes from giving back.
Truly, it was a wonderful day spent supporting a fantastic cause!
Our current bill backlog
When a vendor provides the state with goods and services, they submit the bill to the Illinois Comptroller for payment. The Comptroller processes the paperwork and pays the bill when funds are available in the state’s checking account. Currently the total amount of unpaid bills is $2,241,863,870. This figure changes daily. Last year at this time the state had $1.9 billion in bills awaiting payment. This only includes bills submitted to the Comptroller for payment, not unfunded debts like the state’s pension liability, which is well over $100 billion.
Illinois headlines
Illinois gun ban suit moves through appeals court
Ways to save money as school year begins
Illinois scientists reassess threatened species for first time in nearly 40 years
Starved Rock, Matthiessen among America’s Best State Parks for Great Value Stays
Illinois waives licensing fees for retired health care workers who volunteer