Metro unemployment rates updated
The unemployment rate decreased in eleven metro areas and increased in one for the year ending February, according to data released Thursday by the Illinois Department of Employment Security. The statewide unemployment rate is 5.1%, compared with 4.1% nationally. The metro areas with the highest unemployment rates are Kankakee and Decatur at 5.9%. The metro area with the lowest rate is Bloomington at 3.8%.
Senate passes bills for veterans
Two measures benefiting Illinois veterans have been approved unanimously by the Illinois Senate and now head to the House. Senate Bill 32 provides that a household with one or more veterans of the armed forces shall be considered eligible for food assistance if they meet a certain income level. Another measure would remove the requirement that electric vehicle chargers be installed on smaller homes for veterans.
Military funeral honors
Illinois veterans could get up to 8 hours off a month from work to take part in military funeral honors details with a bill approved by the Illinois Senate. Senate Bill 220 requires the paid time off up to 40 hours a year for such service. The measure now goes to the House.
