Illinois Quick Hits: Unemployment numbers rise; Champaign job growth continues
(The Center Square) – According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and the Illinois Department of Employment Security, the unemployment rate increased in all 12 of the state’s metro areas for the year ending April 2026.
Champaign recorded its 15th consecutive month of year-over-year job growth, but the Champaign-Urbana area also saw its unemployment rate increase by .07 to 3.8%.
BILL PASSES TO PREVENT DRIVER’S LICENSE REQUIREMENT FOR MOST JOBS
The General Assembly has passed a bill that bans employers or employment agencies from requiring job applicants to have a driver’s license unless driving is an essential function and business necessity.
House Bill 4758 is headed to the governor’s desk after it cleared the Illinois Senate on Friday. For positions that require a driver’s license, the bill requires an explanation in the job posting why the license is needed.
CHICAGO ALDERMAN PUSHES FOR PARENTAL ACCOUNTABILITY
A Chicago alderman says he is still pushing his Parental Accountability Ordinance to break the cycle of empty parenting.
Alderman Raymond Lopez said in his e-newsletter on Friday his proposal would hold parents accountable for the actions of their children with increased fines or required community service.
Additionally, it would mandate that they attend family counseling. Lopez’ letter followed several so-called “teen takeovers” in Chicago over the last week.
Rain Showers Likely then Mostly Cloudy
Latest News Stories
ICE, Florida officers arrest 230, including 150 sex offenders
With shutdown over, fight over Obamacare reform is on
Feds launch initiative to conduct welfare checks on unaccompanied minors
Judge: Biden-era decree deal requires release of 600+ from ICE detention
Illinois quick hits: Chicago treasurer to boycott U.S. securities to protest against Trump; Governor marks opening of new union training center; Illinois farms expected to lose $67.2 million a year
Will County Committee Denies Appeal for Crete Township ‘Tiny Home’ Permit
Darby Farms Residents Raise Concerns Over Detention Pond Maintenance
Illinois quick hits: WARN Act reporting shows 1,600 job losses in October
Pritzker, alders oppose Chicago tax plans, property tax hike could be next
Boeing to pay $36M to family of Indian woman killed in Ethiopia Air crash
WATCH: Lawmakers call out Pritzker for lack of transparency with budget cuts
IL congressman pushes military to accept CLT, experts say it could shape education
Illinois, Chicago residents rank high taxes as state’s top issue
