West Central Reporter

Although unemployment in Illinois decreased slightly in May, the numbers are still bleak.

Statistics from the Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) showed a 0.2 percent drop in the state's unemployment rate in May to 6.4 percent. There was also a decline in the labor force, and job growth remains below the national average.

“We saw job loss and more people leaving the workforce in May,” IDES Director Jeff Mays said. “While the nation grew 10.9 percent since recovery began, we grew 7.5 percent. As our job growth continues to lag behind the nation, we will continue our efforts to find more opportunities for individuals looking for meaningful employment.”

The economy in Illinois has not changed significantly over the past year, leaving the state behind the rest of the nation with regard to economic growth.

“National growth has exceeded Illinois’ by nearly 50 percent over the year, leaving us over 50,000 jobs short of peak employment, while the country sets new employment records,” Illinois Department of Commerce acting Director Sean McCarthy said. “The hard-working men and women of Illinois deserve structural reforms that will create jobs and get Illinois growing again.”

May statistics showed the three industry sectors that showed the biggest gains in employment were professional and business services, financial activities and other services, while the largest declines were in educational and health services and government.

Illinois' unemployment rate is higher than the national unemployment rate reported for May 2016, which dipped to 4.7 percent.

For more information about employment issues in Illinois, log on to www.ides.illinois.gov or visit the department's Facebook page.