Weak jobs numbers across the Midwest reflect the possibility of an oncoming economic slowdown. In fact, it would not be surprising to face a recession in the upcoming months, given that U.S. jobs growth has been weakening, and it has been seven years since the previous recession ended – a long period of expansion by historical norms.

Confidence in job opportunities declined in May, with a net loss of 9,100 people from the state’s workforce.

A new report from the Illinois Department of Employment Security shows Illinois gained 5,400 jobs in April, but the state’s unemployment rate ticked up to 6.6 percent, tied for highest in the U.S.

Illinois is one of four states in the entire U.S. to have fewer private sector jobs today compared to the turn of the century. The Land of Lincoln needs pro-growth reforms to allow the state’s private sector to rise again.

Monthly reports from the Bureau of Labor Statistics and the Illinois Department of Employment Security allow the public to see Illinois’ record for job creation and unemployment. Understanding the components of the reports, what they measure, and the significance of the data are key to assessing the state’s economic health.

Illinois has finally recovered from the job losses suffered during the Great Recession, and its workforce continues to grow. But the state’s unemployment rate is also increasing, signaling that while the economy is recovering, it is still unable to meet the demands of a growing number of job seekers.

By reducing the licensing requirements that make it harder for people to enter many professions, Illinois could give more people access to jobs, bring down the cost of goods and services through increased competition, and attract more workers to the state.