#illinois

Concerns over unsanitary conditions have emerged in a suburban school district following the dismissal of union janitorial staff. Teachers and parents report overflowing garbage, dirty bathrooms, and a lack of basic supplies. State lawmakers are now demanding an investigation by the Illinois State Board of Education and the Department of Public Health. The district attributes some issues to delays with a new private custodial company. Officials acknowledge the transition has been slower than anticipated.

Blue Island, Illinois

https://www.nbcchicago.com/news/local/conditions-at-suburban-blue-island-school-criticized-after-custodial-layoffs/3990521/

A labor union has initiated legal action to prevent planned service cuts and job losses at a state-run facility. AFSCME Council 31 filed a lawsuit alleging violations of Illinois laws concerning health facility changes and access to mental health treatment. The union seeks a court order to halt further reductions and compel the state to adhere to existing regulations. These changes are expected to lead to approximately 250 layoffs at the facility. State senators have voiced support for the lawsuit, citing concerns for patients and local access to care.

Anna, Illinois

https://www.wfiwradio.com/2026/09/17/afscme-files-lawsuit-seeking-to-stop-choate-cuts-and-layoffs/

A former Grubhub employee created a talent network after being laid off. This network lists hundreds of former employees seeking new employment opportunities. The tracker helps recruiters find candidates with specific skills and backgrounds. Many individuals have successfully found new jobs through this initiative. The program highlights the importance of community support during workforce transitions.

Chicago, Illinois

https://www.businessinsider.com/irvin-thevaranjan-supports-grubhub-layoffs-recovery-efforts-2026-9

The Belleville News-Democrat has significantly reduced its newsroom staff due to nationwide layoffs at its parent company, McClatchy. At least four journalists were let go, leaving only the executive editor and two reporters. This move is part of McClatchy's strategy to address declining revenue and reshape its newsrooms. The company has faced financial difficulties for years, including a bankruptcy filing in 2020. These cuts impact one of the few publications serving the Metro East region of Illinois.

Belleville, IL

https://www.stlpr.org/news-briefs/2026-09-11/belleville-news-democrat-newsroom-staff-mcclatchy-layoffs

Columbia College Chicago has eliminated two career advisor positions as part of recent staff layoffs. The Career Center will continue to offer its full range of services to students. Leadership team members will now assist with advising, leveraging their extensive experience. While two advisors were let go, the remaining staff are trusted to support all students. The college emphasizes its commitment to student career development despite these changes.

Chicago, Illinois

https://columbiachronicle.com/campus/columbia-eliminates-two-career-advisor-positions-in-recent-staff-layoffs/

The Illinois Department of Labor has initiated an investigation into Essendant following a complaint concerning the state's Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act. This inquiry will examine whether proper notice was given to employees and if compensation was adequate. The investigation is separate from a federal lawsuit also filed against the company. Essendant is undergoing significant layoffs and facility closures. The department has not yet determined if Essendant violated any laws.

Chicago, Illinois

https://distributionstrategy.com/2026/09/illinois-opens-an-investigation-into-essendant-layoffs/

CJ Logistics America is shutting down its University Park facility this fall. This closure will result in the layoff of 89 employees. The job cuts will occur in stages starting in September and continuing through October. The company did not respond to inquiries about the closure. This action impacts workers at the Illinois site.

University Park, Illinois

https://www.pjstar.com/story/business/employment/2026/09/03/logistics-company-announces-nearly-90-illinois-workers-face-layoffs/91569072007/

D&H Distributing Company is relocating its Midwest distribution hub to Indiana. This move will lead to the layoff of nearly 70 employees in Illinois. The new Indiana hub is scheduled to begin operations on September 8th. Shipping operations and customer pickups at the current Illinois facility will cease. The company announced these layoffs in a WARN notice filed in July.

Bolingbrook, Illinois

https://www.pjstar.com/story/business/employment/2026/09/05/midwest-hub-relocation-means-layoffs-for-illinois-workers/91569715007/

A suburban Chicago school district has laid off all 31 of its custodians. The district is implementing temporary cleaning measures until a new provider starts next week. Union representatives and some parents have raised concerns about the effectiveness of these temporary arrangements. Teachers may be assisting with limited cleaning tasks, and students might be asked to clean up after themselves. The union has filed complaints alleging labor law violations.

Crestwood, Illinois

https://abc7chicago.com/post/blue-island-area-school-district-uses-temporary-cleanup-measures-custodial-layoffs-prompting-concerns-union-parents/19791470/

Uber is implementing a significant workforce reduction, impacting over 300 employees in its Chicago office. This move is part of a broader company strategy to decrease its overall workforce by 10%. CEO Dara Khosrowshahi cited the need for simplification and efficiency within the organization. The layoffs are intended to streamline team structures and address complexities arising from past growth. This decision comes as the company navigates its current market position and operational strategies.

Chicago, Illinois

https://www.nbcchicago.com/news/local/more-than-300-chicago-uber-employees-cut-in-mass-layoff/3984895/

Illinois state lawmakers expressed surprise and dismay upon learning of the impending closure of a Tyson Foods facility. The decision will result in thousands of job losses for the local community. Officials are now focusing on strategies to support the affected workers. The news came as a shock to representatives who were not previously informed. Efforts are underway to assist those impacted by the layoffs.

Port Byron, Illinois

https://quadcitiesbusiness.com/illinois-lawmakers-we-were-blindsided-by-tyson-foods-layoffs/

TV Hardware Distribution will close its Chicago office, impacting over 100 employees. The company is consolidating operations into its Indiana headquarters. Layoffs are scheduled to begin in October and continue into January. This move aims to streamline operations and reduce costs. The closure is part of a larger integration effort.

Chicago, Illinois

https://www.galesburg.com/story/news/state/2026/08/25/illinois-to-lose-jobs-due-to-change-at-indiana-company/91394135007/

Illinois Tech recently laid off 160 faculty and staff members due to a significant budget shortfall. This reduction has raised alarms among former employees and local leaders regarding its impact on community engagement and programming. A popular course partnering with the Bronzeville Trail Task Force has already been eliminated. Concerns also exist about the future of other community initiatives and the university's relationship with the Bronzeville neighborhood. The firings followed the university's declaration of financial exigency.

Chicago, Illinois

https://blockclubchicago.org/2026/08/20/how-will-illinois-tech-layoffs-impact-bronzeville/

Anyone been through this in Illinois?

meridianhcihcbcbss08142026.pdf https://share.google/edrWyRGq6OLm79a2I

Now they are being fined 1.3 million for Illinois market.
.

https://www.chicagotribune.com/2026/07/29/waukegan-district-60-layoffs/

Distributor Essendant has warned of a possible business shutdown, impacting at least 1,100 employees through impending layoffs. The company is actively exploring asset sales and seeking new capital to avert liquidation. These significant job cuts follow a recent strategic pivot away from office supplies towards JanSan, foodservice, and technology products. Essendant's financial distress raises concerns for customers, suppliers, and partners regarding business continuity. The company's future hinges on securing external funding or a buyer to remain operational.

Carol Stream, Illinois

https://www.mdm.com/news/featured/featured-blog/essendant-warns-of-possible-shutdown-amid-hundreds-of-layoffs/

Weeks after its acquisition by Alden Global Capital, the Daily Herald has begun implementing layoffs. Several editorial department employees, including the executive editor, received termination notices. These cuts are reportedly a cost-cutting measure by the new ownership. The affected employees were offered severance packages. It remains unclear if further staff reductions are planned.

Arlington Heights, Illinois

https://www.shawlocal.com/news/2026/08/10/layoffs-begin-at-daily-herald-weeks-after-purchase-by-chicago-tribune-owners-alden/

Seems too quiet

SCR Medical Transportation is implementing significant layoffs affecting 241 employees. This decision stems from the expiration of a decade-long contract with Pace Suburban Bus for call center services. The contract was rebid to a different company, leading to the job reductions. The company has provided resources to assist affected employees in finding new employment. These layoffs are scheduled to occur on September 30th.

Peoria, Illinois

https://www.aol.com/articles/illinois-transportation-company-announces-mass-080421000.html

Chicago Public Schools has announced that all previously planned layoffs are rescinded due to an amended budget incorporating increased state funding. District leadership expressed confidence in meeting payroll and opening schools on schedule. This development follows the Board of Education's decision to hold state officials accountable for underfunding. A coalition of stakeholders, including the union and legislative leaders, is working to secure the necessary revenue. Further details on the implementation of the reversed layoffs are expected.

Chicago, Illinois

https://www.ctulocal1.org/posts/weekly-bulletin-layoffs-reversed-cps-joins-the-team-school-opens-on-time/

Portillo's has implemented significant layoffs at its Oak Brook headquarters. The restaurant chain reduced its corporate and field management staff by 18%. This decision was described as a "strategic reset" by the company. The layoffs affected 140 employees at the corporate offices. The company cited lower sales across its restaurants as the reason for these cuts.

Oak Brook, Illinois

https://www.nbcchicago.com/news/local/portillos-announces-layoffs-at-suburban-headquarters/3971407/

Employees, union leaders, and local officials gathered to protest planned layoffs and service cuts at the Choate Mental Health and Developmental Center. The state intends to eliminate approximately 250 jobs, a program for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and reduce mental health beds. These changes are part of a multi-year plan that has drawn significant opposition from those concerned about the impact on services and employment. Protesters emphasized the critical need for mental health services in the region, arguing against the state's rationale for the downsizing. The rally highlighted the deep community concern over the future of the facility and its role in providing essential care.

Anna, Illinois

https://capitolnewsillinois.com/news/employees-local-lawmakers-rally-against-layoffs-service-cuts-at-choate/

We spend a lot of time being reminded what integrity looks like. It would be nice if leadership and government relationships inspired the same confidence.

The public record shows a CEO meeting the Illinois governor, state help on the merger, and the governor’s blind trust later holding Centene stock as the company collected billions in Medicaid dollars.

Interesting optics huh?

https://www.centene.com/why-were-different/healthcare-fraud-waste-abuse-oversight.html​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

The Illinois Federation of Teachers has filed a lawsuit against the Cook County Treasurer's office. They allege the office is withholding hundreds of millions in property tax funds meant for public schools. This alleged failure to disburse funds has led to budget shortfalls and educator layoffs in school districts. The lawsuit seeks a court order for fund disbursement and compensation for damages. The IFT claims the Treasurer's office is holding approximately $400 million in property tax payments.

Chicago, Illinois

https://wgntv.com/news/cook-county/illinois-federation-of-teachers-files-lawsuit-against-cook-county-treasurer-maria-pappas-over-failure-to-disperse-property-tax-funds/

Illinois Institute of Technology is implementing significant layoffs affecting 160 employees. This decision stems from declining enrollment numbers and ongoing financial challenges. The university is undergoing a restructuring process to address these issues. These cuts are a direct consequence of the institution's financial difficulties. The aim is to stabilize the university's financial future.

Chicago, Illinois

https://www.chicagobusiness.com/education/ccb-illinois-tech-layoffs-20260730/

The Chicago Board of Education voted to reject a proposed budget that would have resulted in over 1,000 layoffs. Instead, the board approved a revised plan contingent on $150 million in uncommitted state funding. Board members supporting the amendment argued that mass layoffs would harm students and that the district's warnings were exaggerated. This decision was made despite warnings from district officials that it could lead to an unbalanced budget and financial instability. The vote passed 11-7, with supporters aligning with the Chicago Teachers Union.

Chicago, Illinois

https://www.wbez.org/education/chicago-school-board/2026/07/30/chicago-school-board-approves-budget-that-reverses-layoffs-but-counts-on-shaky-state-funds

Governor Pritzker addressed recent staff reductions at the Choate Mental Health Center. He stated these layoffs are a direct result of relocating developmentally disabled residents to improved facilities. Consequently, the need for staff at the original location has diminished.

https://capitolcitynow.com/news/248842-pritzker-defends-choate-layoffs/

How many stores in IL are being transitioned to indirect?

The state of Illinois is implementing a plan to lay off employees and relocate patients from Choate Mental Health and Developmental Center. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to reform care for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Community members have expressed concerns about the economic impact of these changes on the local area. The facility has seen a significant decrease in its developmental disabilities population since 2023. Affected employees will be offered positions at other state-run facilities.

Anna, IL

https://www.kfvs12.com/2026/07/25/community-reacts-layoffs-patient-relocations-choate-mental-health-developmental-center/

A law firm is investigating West Suburban Medical Center for potential violations of the WARN Act. The hospital recently announced a mass layoff affecting 589 employees. This federal law requires employers to provide 60 days' notice before significant workforce reductions. Employees may be entitled to severance pay if proper notice was not given. The investigation aims to determine if the hospital complied with these notification requirements.

Oak Park, Illinois

https://straussborrelli.com/2026/07/20/west-suburban-medical-center-warn-act-investigation-2/

Techmer PM will lay off 68 employees at its Elk Grove Village facility. The layoffs are scheduled to occur on September 30. The company did not disclose the reason for these permanent job reductions. Techmer PM acquired Colors for Plastics, the affected entity, in 2025. The company is a global materials design solutions provider.

Elk Grove Village, Illinois

https://www.pjstar.com/story/news/state/2026/07/21/illinois-workers-to-lose-jobs-in-cook-county-il-after-acquisition-by-tennessee-company/90879532007/

CDW has recently conducted layoffs as part of an organizational restructuring. The company stated these changes are intended to sharpen operating discipline and reinvest in high-growth opportunities. This move aligns with CDW's AI-first initiative, aiming to enhance efficiency and customer focus. The exact number of affected employees was not disclosed. Previous layoffs at CDW occurred in July of last year and in April 2023.

Vernon Hills, Illinois

https://www.crn.com/news/channel-news/2026/cdw-cuts-jobs-as-ai-cost-cutting-drive-takes-hold

Capital One Financial is implementing further workforce reductions in Illinois. The company plans to eliminate at least 276 positions. These layoffs are part of a financial restructuring and integration process. Affected employees work at the Riverwoods site or remotely but report to that location. The job cuts are scheduled to occur between early August and early September.

Riverwoods, Illinois

https://www.pjstar.com/story/news/state/2026/07/17/more-illinois-workers-to-lose-job-because-of-capital-one-layoffs-in-riverwoods-il/90906458007/

The U.S. Forest Service has terminated over 3,000 employees nationwide. Twelve of these former employees are from the Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie in Illinois. These layoffs are causing disorientation and a feeling of diminished purpose among the affected workers. The reductions are expected to negatively impact conservation efforts in the state. Midewin's programs will also need to adapt to the loss of staff.

Channahon, Illinois

https://mshale.com/f47189ad/b9e24b5at_ZSu1pWZOk

Educators and families are protesting significant funding delays impacting Chicago Public Schools. They highlight a $5 billion state deficit and $400 million in unreleased funds. These delays force schools to take out costly loans, diverting money from essential programs. Protesters demand Chicago Public Schools be included in a bridge loan program and that withheld funds be released. They also call for a special legislative session to prioritize student funding.

Chicago, Illinois

https://chicagodefender.com/as-cps-plans-hundreds-of-layoffs-educators-fight-back/

Tom & Jerry's is holding hiring events for former Beef-a-Roo employees. The locally owned restaurant wants to offer these workers a chance to join their team. They are accepting applications and conducting interviews at all four area locations. Owner Bob Grottke expressed a commitment to hiring qualified candidates quickly. This initiative aims to support those impacted by the recent Beef-a-Roo layoffs.

Loves Park, Illinois

https://www.rockrivercurrent.com/2026/07/tom-jerrys-to-host-hiring-days-for-laid-off-beef-a-roo-workers/

Chicago Public Schools has announced layoffs to address a significant budget deficit. District leaders stated that these reductions were implemented after exhausting other cost-saving strategies. The layoffs are expected to save approximately $18 million. This decision comes as the district faces a $732 million budget shortfall. Further details on the number of affected employees were not immediately available.

Chicago, Illinois

https://www.cbsnews.com/chicago/video/cps-announces-layoffs-in-attempt-to-close-732-million-budget-deficit/

https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/centene-subsidiary-meridian-health-plan-of-illinois-awarded-illinois-medicaid-contract-302821756.html