Quinn: Illinois’ Unemployment Drop Is `Momentous’

Gov. Pat Quinn says Illinois' drop in unemployment is a sign that his policies addressing the state's business climate are working.

He addressed reporters Thursday at a Chicago pipe and conduit manufacturer calling it a "momentous'' day.   He also planned stops in Bloomington and Savoy Thursday.

State officials say unemployment fell in July to 6.8 percent. That's a drop from 9.2 percent one year ago and marks the largest year-over-year decline since 1984.

The last time the rate was lower than 6.8 was in August 2008 when it was 6.7.
 
Quinn says his administration's investments in manufacturing and overhauls to workers' compensation and unemployment insurance helped create jobs.
 
The state's employment rate has been a major issue in the governor's race.
 
Quinn has defended his record on jobs while Republican Bruce Rauner has criticized Quinn's leadership on the issue.