Illinois unemployment increases to 6.8 percent

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

The number of unemployed workers in Illinois increased for the second month in a row in June, rising to its highest level since June 1993.

The Illinois Department of Employment Security says the jobless number rose 26,900 last month to 463,900.

The unemployment rate also was up in June. It increased to 6.8 percent from 6.4 percent in May and 5 percent a year ago.

Unemployment in Illinois last month was well above the national figure of 5.5 percent.

But Illinois continues to lead Midwestern states in job growth, adding 191,500 new jobs since January 2004.

Employment Department Director James Sledge says the increase in the unemployment rate further proves the need for the Illinois Works capital plan.

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