South Central Reporter

The U.S. economy is showing signs of strain, with new data revealing fewer jobs added in 2023 and early 2024 than originally reported. The U.S. Department of Labor’s revisions cut job growth estimates by 28 percent, while at the same time, July numbers show Illinois is now tied for the second-highest unemployment in the nation. Meanwhile, small businesses in the state are struggling more than ever, with many making less money than last year as new tax hikes present additional challenges.

Recent data shows that job growth across the country hasn’t been as strong as initially reported. The U.S. Department of Labor released revised job numbers on August 21, revealing that around 818,000 fewer jobs were created during the past year than originally thought. The revised numbers are a sign that fault lines in the labor market are deeper and began shifting earlier than previously known.

In Illinois, the situation is particularly difficult. The unemployment rate jumped to 5.2 percent in July, tying for the second-worst in the country. This means more than 341,000 people in Illinois are looking for work.

Job creators in Illinois are also feeling the pressure. A recent survey by Alignable found that 58 percent of small businesses in Illinois are making less money than they did last year—a 7 percent increase from the previous month. To make matters worse, Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker just signed nearly $1 billion in new tax hikes into law.

Across the country, 73 percent of small business owners say they’re earning less than they did last year. Over 80 percent of these small businesses in industries like manufacturing, beauty salons, and real estate are seeing big drops in revenue, making it a challenging time for job creators everywhere.

This economic landscape paints a challenging picture for Illinois families. As the job market falters and new taxes take their toll, many families are finding it harder to make ends meet. The latest data is a stark reminder that the economy remains fragile, leaving many in Illinois uncertain about what the future holds.

Senator Plummer voted against the Governor’s recent tax hikes, warning they will hamper job growth and raise costs for Illinois residents. He believes these tax hikes are driving more people and job creators to leave the state.

The Illinois State Police have officially concluded their investigation into Heinz Funeral Home in Carlinville, with findings now in the hands of Macoupin County State’s Attorney. This investigation highlights oversight importance within funeral home industry practices concerning human remains handling.

In September 2023, Sangamon County Coroner Jim Allmon announced an investigation into Heinz Funeral Home/Family Care Cremations following numerous family reports receiving incorrect cremated remains.

In response to concerns raised by this and similar cases throughout spring legislative sessions proposed measures aim to prevent future incidents and hold funeral homes accountable through Senate Bill 2643 creating regulations ensuring tagging systems return correct next-of-kin remains along detailed chain-of-custody documentation requirements deaths occurring within Illinois borders

Senator Plummer sponsored Senate Bill 3263 targeting mishandling criminalization actions such inaccurate documentation illegal storage intentional misidentification although SB3263 has not yet passed Senate vote

Illinois drivers will soon have four-year or eight-year license options under newly signed legislation requiring Secretary State establish rules process January first twenty-twenty-seven available motorists July first same year aiming reduce DMV visit frequency offering convenience aligning other states longer validity periods cost eight-year sixty dollars double four-year

Newly signed measure enhances transparency public access information regarding proposed local government tax levy changes amending Truth Taxation law requiring taxing bodies prominently display notices top websites minimum thirty days existing mandate publication local newspapers dual approach designed maximize reach effectiveness disclosures providing multiple opportunities stay informed potential property tax increases

While Springfield's fair ended Du Quoin State Fair just started ribbon-cutting ceremony Friday August twenty-third followed annual Twilight Parade running through September second featuring wide range attractions including agricultural exhibits livestock shows auto racing free entertainment carnival rides contests educational displays harness racing concerts main Grandstand lineup daily calendar events dsf illinois gov additional information seasonal handicap parking details

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