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Medicaid expansion hurts Indiana’s competitiveness

This article was written by Naomi Lopez Bauman and featured in the IndyStar on October 21, 2014. Illinois residents have reacted with confusion, anger and shame upon seeing the infamous “Illinoyed?” billboards scattered across the state. The fact that more Illinoisans fleeing our high taxes, anemic job growth and crony politics head to Indiana than...

Unemployment report shows strong jobs growth despite significant manufacturing jobs decline

CHICAGO (Oct. 21, 2014) – Today, complete data showing Illinois’ unemployment levels were released by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The September report shows mixed results, with Illinois gaining 19,300 net jobs but losing 2,800 manufacturing jobs. This expands on data released last week by the Illinois Department of Employment Security showing the state’s...

Commodity Wrap: Illinois’ death tax

Michael Lucci, Director of Jobs and Growth at the Illinois Policy Institute, was interviewed by Alexandra Lively for the Commodity Wrap on Rural Radio to discuss Illinois’ estate tax and it’s impact on rural communities.  Image source. 

“Union issue” still in background of governor’s campaign

This article was written by Matt Porter and featured on Illinois Homepage on October 16, 2014.  “Right to work” hasn’t been a headline in the campaign for Illinois governor, but it could be one of the most controversial topics. The policy for a state, or municipalities inside it, to become a “right to work” community...

IDOT spends $143,000 on zombie-themed seat belt ad

This article was written by Patrick Yeagle and featured in the Illinois Times on October 16, 2014.  In a dusty, dimly-lit warehouse, a horde of zombies closes in two men with high-powered firearms trying in vain to escape through a stuck door. The men radio for help, and outside, an armored car that looks like something...

Fox Chicago: Illinois continues to struggle with job growth

Our Director of Jobs and Growth, Michael Lucci, joined Fox Chicago to talk about a new jobs report for Illinois. Watch the video here. 

Illinois’ Cell Phone Tax Among Highest in Nation

This article was originally featured on NBC Chicago on October, 13, 2014.  Illinois has one of the highest cell phone taxes in the country, according to a new report from the Tax Foundation. Americans pay an average of 17.05 percent in combined federal, state and local tax and fees on wireless service. This is typically...

Minorities: Group Most Effected By Recession

Our Director of Jobs and Growth, Michael Lucci, joined WICD to discuss the Illinois Policy Institute’s research on employment among different demographics in the state.  Read more.