The Mercer County unemployment rate remains in double-digits. The 10.6 percent figure is for June and represents almost a seven-percent increase from the same period a year ago, according to data released Thursday by the Illinois Department of Employment Security. Unemployment is also up from year over year levels in Henderson, Henry, Knox, Rock Island and Warren counties. All remain in double-digit territory.
In the region, Professional-Business Services (-2,900), Leisure-Hospitality (-2,700), Government (-2,700), Manufacturing (-1,300), and Other Services (-1,300) sectors recorded the largest employment declines compared to one year ago.
The unemployment rate identifies those who are out of work and seeking employment. A person who exhausts benefits, or is ineligible, still will be reflected in the unemployment rate if they actively seek work.
Statewide, the unemployment rate is at 14.6 percent, a record high for the month of June, dating back to 1976.
The national rate is 11.2 percent, also a record high for the month of June, dating back to 1948.
