The Fed just cut interest rates over worries about the national jobs outlook, but in Illinois unemployment has been a persistent problem. Tax and state economic policy should get much of the blame.

The Quad Cities will experience a combined 319 job cuts after John Deere announced layoffs at both its World Headquarters in Moline and Harvester Works factory in East Moline. Romeoville saw more than 1-in-4 of the mass layoffs statewide.

July unemployment hit 5.2% in Illinois, ranking second worst in the nation. It equated to 341,630 workers looking for a job.

Despite some growth, high unemployment remains a persistent issue in Illinois with 13 of 15 metropolitan areas showing higher rates of unemployment than the national average.

Illinois unemployment rose to 5% during June, ranking third worst in the U.S. About 328,000 Illinoisans need a job.

Despite some growth, high unemployment remains an issue in Illinois. All 15 metropolitan areas showed higher rates of unemployment than the national average.

Illinois' employment growth lags the nation and neighboring states in May.

Illinois grew jobs in eight of its 13 metropolitan areas during April, but the Chicago area’s sluggish growth and a stubbornly high unemployment rate tempered any gains.

Black workers in Illinois face a tougher job market than peers nationally. Hispanic men, Asians face lower unemployment rates relative to peers in other states.