University of Illinois Ecomomist Fred Giertz says the monthly Flash Index fell to 105.3 in January from 105.5 a month earlier, which he says is consistent with a national slowdown.  But he says the economy is growing, just at a slower rate.  Giertz also says it's unclear if Illinois' now 8-month budget impasse is having much of an impact.

The Flash Index to the Illinois economy fell to 105.5 in December, from its November level of 106.1. Any reading above 100 reflects economic growth. But the December reading was the lowest in 2015 --- in fact the lowest reading since March, 2013.

U of I economist Fred Giertz says the 107.0 reading for the March Flash Index indicates a continued strengthening of the Illinois economy.