Institute of Government and Public Affairs | Where leaders turn for analysis of crucial issues

July 2, 2009

Jun 92.0

U of I Flash Index dips more than two points in June to 92.0

The Illinois economy remains in the doldrums of the national recession, according to the latest University of Illinois Flash Index. The index, which ticked up slightly in May, dropped more than two full points in June, from 94.1 to 92.0.

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IGPA Experts

George Gross

studies power system analysis, economics, and electric utility regulatory policy.

Focus

Minimum Wages And Employment In Illinois

Photo of Elizabeth Powers The latest edition of IGPA's Policy Forum looks at the impact of minimum wage policy in Illinois. Illinois is among several states that has its own minimum wage, which is higher than the federal minimum wage. This Policy Forum, written by economist Elizabeth Powers (left), presents evidence about the effect of Illinois’ recent series of minimum-wage hikes on downstate fast-food employment.

Analysis

Illinois Economic Review for May shows job losses continue to mount in Illinois

The Illinois economy lost another 17,400 jobs in May, according to the Illinois Economic Review. The monthly tracking by the Regional Economic Applications Laboratory and IGPA economist Geoffrey Hewings shows the state has dropped more than 200,000 jobs since last September. Read the latest review.

Richard Dye says STAR program is ill-conceived development idea

Photo of Richard F. Dye IGPA economist Richard F. Dye says the Sales Tax Anticipation Revenue bond program approved by the Illinois General Assembly this spring gives away too much to benefit too few. Read Dye's commentary on the program. (A version of this appeared as a letter to the editor in the St. Louis Post-Dispatch on June 13, 2009.)