Metro unemployment falls
The St. Louis metro area’s unemployment rate reached a record low of 3.5% for June.
The Illinois Department of Employment Security reports all 12 metro areas throughout Illinois saw unemployment rates decline.
Down from 5.7% last year, Illinois’ unemployment rate now sits at 4.5%. The national average is at 4.1%.
Rezin: Fast track nuclear projects
Illinois state Sen. Sue Rezin continues to push for fast tracking nuclear energy projects in Illinois.
The Morris Republican said a new bill she’s filing would require all applicable state agencies to take final action on a permit for a small modular reactor 150 days after being deemed complete.
Legislators don’t return until October.
Budget challenge gets hearing
Members of the Illinois Freedom Caucus say they recognize their uphill battle in challenging passage of the state budget, saying Democrats violated the state’s three readings rule for bills to pass.
After a hearing in a Sangamon County court this week, the Republicans said they believe the fight is worth it and the people of the state deserve “a budget process that is transparent, accountable and above all Constitutional.”
