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
Taxpayers funding $52.8M Route 9 upgrade; residents raise safety concerns
Climate and energy experts praise Trump’s Endangerment Finding repeal
Taxpayer group urges Trump, Congress to confront rising federal debt
Fairmont Neighborhood Plan Update Prioritizes Infrastructure and Beautification Following Demographic Shift
Board Approves Purchase of Grant-Funded Light Tower
Health & Safety Committee: Monee Church Kitchen Project Highlighted in County Health Impact Report
WATCH/EXCLUSIVE: Bill limits governor’s emergency powers
U.S. colleges report $5.2B in foreign funds for 2025
U.S. farm bill drops, outlines 5-year funding
Group: Raising minimum wage could cause drastic inflation
Denver City Council members advance bill to ban ICE masks
U.S. Ed Dept. investigates Puyallup wrestler’s sexual assault allegation by trans athlete