Illinois quick hits: Unemployment down; Rivian supplier gets tax incentives
Unemployment down
The unemployment rate in Illinois has dropped to its lowest point since July 2023.
The Illinois Department of Employment Security announced the August rate of 4.4%, based on preliminary data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Total nonfarm payrolls decreased by 13,300 last month. Compared to a year ago, nonfarm payroll increased by 5,900 jobs.
Rivian supplier gets tax incentives
With support from Illinois tax incentives, OPmobility plans to establish their first Illinois facility in Normal to assemble bumpers for Rivian’s R2.
Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s office announced the company plans to create 81 new full-time jobs. The Rivian R2 will be available to consumers in 2026.
Bank executive sentenced
A judge has sentenced the former second-in-command of the Bank of O’Fallon to five years and three months in prison after he pleaded guilty to federal fraud charges.
Andrew P. Blassie, 70, of St. Louis, was also ordered to pay more than $2.4 million in restitution.
Latest News Stories
Op-Ed: Illinois is closed for business
Illinois Quick Hits: Proposal would allow two-year, online car registration
Meeting Summary and Briefs: Will County Board Executive Committee for May 14, 2026
SCOTUS turns away Palatine HS teacher fired over anti-BLM Facebook posts
WATCH: Critics say political protests interfere with education
Congressional candidates discuss agriculture, healthcare
Trump admin still releasing minors into U.S., well below Biden era
TrumpRx expanding, offering generic prescription drugs
Trump pauses planned military strikes against Iran, cites further negotiations
Tennessee AG leads 23-state letter over climate chapter in federal judges’ manual
Consumer advocates say Nicor’s rate hike is unreasonable, profit-driven
Dominion, NextEra plan merger