Thank you for reading this edition of “Representative La Ha’s Latest.” I’m eager to update you on some Illinois news and what I’ve been up to in our District. By staying informed and keeping our lines of communication open, we can work together for the betterment of the communities we call home. I love doing this process with you, and I’m grateful to be your representative.
Illinois’ unemployment rate went up in June.
The Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) announced last week that the unemployment rate increased +0.1 percentage point to 5.0 percent, while nonfarm payrolls increased +10,400 in June, based on preliminary data provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), and released by IDES. The May revised unemployment rate was 4.9 percent, unchanged from the preliminary May unemployment rate. The May monthly change in payrolls was revised from the preliminary report, from +12,700 to +9,600 jobs. The June unemployment rate and payroll jobs estimate reflect activity for the week including the 12th.
In June, the industry sectors with the largest over-the-month job gains included: Private Education and Health Services (+7,100), Trade, Transportation, and Utilities (+3,200), and Government (+2,800). The industry sectors with monthly payroll job declines included Leisure and Hospitality (-1,800), Information (-1,100), and Professional and Business Services (-1,000).
The state’s unemployment rate was +0.9 percentage point higher than the national unemployment rate reported for June. The national unemployment rate was 4.1 percent in June, up +0.1 percentage point from the previous month. The Illinois unemployment rate was up +0.7 percentage point from a year ago when it was 4.3 percent.
The number of unemployed workers was 327,900, up +3.3 percent from the prior month, and up +18.7 percent over the same month one year ago. The labor force was up +0.1 percent over-the-month and up +1.4 percent over-the-year. The unemployment rate identifies those individuals who are out of work and seeking employment. An individual who exhausts or is ineligible for benefits is still reflected in the unemployment rate if they actively seek work.
Senator Curran and I are doing our part by co-hosting a Job Fair later this month in Lemont! Full information below!
Police Conference
Last week, I had the privilege of attending the 31st biennial Illinois Fraternal Order of Police conference in Tinley Park. I briefly spoke about my role on the police and fire committee in the General Assembly, expressing my commitment to supporting and resourcing our law enforcement to ensure safe communities. I am committed to making sure that our officers have everything they need to keep them safe on the job. There’s nothing more important than their safety and well-being as they do the remarkable work they do.
Also in attendance were State Representative Patrick Sheehan, State Representative Dennis Tipsword, and Aaron Porter of the 81st District, all of whom serve as police officers. I am proud of their dedication to keeping our families safe. I want to thank all the men and women who sacrifice every day to protect our communities and families. We are forever grateful for you!!!!
Fishing Derby this Saturday!
I’m looking forward to our fishing derby this weekend! It’s sure to be a beautiful morning of fun, family, and great catches! Hope to see you there!
