Prairie State Wire

The Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) reported that the state's unemployment rate remained steady at 4.8% in March, while nonfarm payrolls saw an increase of 12,700 jobs. This data is based on preliminary figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and was released by IDES. The revised February unemployment rate also stood at 4.8%, with a revision in the monthly change in payrolls from 23,100 to 26,700 jobs.

Significant job gains were noted in several industry sectors for March: Government added 3,300 jobs, Leisure and Hospitality gained 2,900 jobs, and Trade, Transportation and Utilities increased by 2,400 jobs. However, there were declines in Financial Activities and Mining sectors by 1,100 and 100 jobs respectively.

Deputy Governor Andy Manar commented on this growth saying it "continues to fuel the strength of the Illinois labor market and statewide economy." He emphasized that new job creation presents more opportunities for the workforce in Illinois. Kristin Richards, Director of the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO), highlighted that "continued growth in payroll jobs serves as a testament to Illinois companies continuing to invest in our communities and workforce."

Illinois' unemployment rate was one percentage point higher than the national average which decreased slightly to 3.8% for March. Over a year-long comparison, Illinois saw an increase of 0.6 percentage points from its previous year's rate of 4.2%. In terms of nonfarm payrolls over-the-year changes showed an increase by 26,100 jobs across most major industries.

The report also noted that unemployed workers numbered at 312,200 which is a rise by 1.1% from February and up by 15.5% compared to last year’s figures for March.

IDES plays a role in connecting jobseekers with potential employers through various methods including job fairs and maintaining Illinois JobLink (IJL), which lists available positions for hire alongside posted resumes.

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