State Jobless Rate Lower in March

The Illinois unemployment rate fell in March to the lowest level since January 2009.

State officials say the rate fell despite more people entering the labor force to look for work.

As expected, however, the unseasonably cold and snowy weather in March dampened initial estimates for new hiring.  Combined with continued job loss at the government level, the state recorded 3,200 fewer jobs than in February, but 29,400 more than in March one year ago.