SPRINGFIELD, IL (Chambana Today) – The Illinois Department of Employment Security announced that unemployment fell 0.1 percent from 4.9 in January to 4.8 percent in February.

This data comes from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The national rate was 4.1 percent in February and up 0.1 percent from the previous month.

“While this month’s headline unemployment rate shows little change, a deeper look at the report reveals the start of a troubling trend—federal government workers being victim to the chaos unleashed by Elon Musk and the Trump Administration,” said Deputy Governor Andy Manar. “Despite this alarming new trend, the report also reflects the resiliency of the state’s economy, due in part to the investment in key growing industries made by this Administration. IDES stands ready to provide critical resources to support federal employees and contractors impacted by recent terminations.”

• Illinois nonfarm payrolls remained nearly unchanged in February, with a decrease of -6,500 jobs (-0.1%).
• January payroll changes were revised from -1,100 to -4,400 jobs.
• Industry sectors with over-the-month job increases:
  • Construction: +2,900
  • Trade, Transportation, and Utilities: +2,300
  • Professional and Business Services: +1,900
• Industry sectors with the largest monthly job decreases:
  • Government: -5,600
  • Leisure and Hospitality: -3,100
  • Private Education and Health Services: -1,700
• Over the year, total nonfarm payroll jobs increased by +19,100 jobs.
• Industry groups with the largest year-over-year job increases:
  • Private Education and Health Services: +20,700
  • Government: +14,900
  • Leisure and Hospitality: +5,300
• Industry groups with the largest year-over-year job decreases:
  • Professional and Business Services: -13,900
  • Manufacturing: -7,300
  • Construction: -1,600
• Over-the-year, total nonfarm payrolls were up +0.3% in Illinois compared to +1.2% nationwide.

“Illinois’ resilient workforce continues to make progress as unemployment rates fall,” said DCEO Director Kristin Richards. “The State of Illinois remains committed to providing the resources and opportunities necessary for both employers and job seekers to thrive in Illinois’ growing economy.”