Government data show freedom from forced unionization means better outcomes for workers.

Newly released data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics shows weak jobs gains and a shrinking U.S. workforce in September.

Despite being the most populous state in the Midwest, Illinois has added just 13,400 payroll jobs in 2015 – fewer than any other neighboring state.

Illinois lost 2,200 manufacturing jobs in August and is down nearly 10,000 on the year.

In the other Great Lakes states, workers are more likely to be able to find a manufacturing opportunity than a government job.

State jobs data shows Illinois had a net gain of 1,900 payroll jobs in July, driven by an increase in government employment.

Indiana and Michigan laid the framework for a manufacturing and jobs recovery. Until politicians in the Illinois General Assembly get serious about pursuing real reforms, the state’s jobs climate with continue to decline.

Those resilient enough to stay in the labor market are increasingly looking to other states for opportunity.

Policy pain points continue to kill blue-collar jobs in Illinois.