#illinois

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

Optum will close its divvyDOSE pharmacy in Moline, impacting 98 employees. Layoffs are scheduled to occur in August and September. The divvyDOSE pharmacy specializes in sorting prescription medications into pill packs. The company has not yet released a statement regarding the closure. This news was reported to the state on June 5.

Moline, Illinois

https://www.wqad.com/article/news/local/optum-close-divvydose-pharmacy-moline-laying-off-98-employees/526-dd30d0c0-f7f1-4c1b-bd36-93f48ef4e378

West Suburban Medical Center issued permanent layoff notices. Approximately 500 furloughed employees are affected. The layoffs are expected to begin on August 31. This action was required under the Illinois WARN Act. The hospital's future remains uncertain amid ongoing legal disputes.

Oak Park, Illinois

https://abc7chicago.com/post/west-suburban-hospital-oak-park-illinois-sends-permanent-layoff-notices-500-furloughed-employees/19425354/

Ideal US Talent Worker OpCo LLC plans significant layoffs. The company will cut 1,395 workers. These layoffs affect five Illinois counties. Restructuring is cited as the reason for the permanent job losses. Affected employees are encouraged to apply to a third-party partner.

https://www.pjstar.com/story/business/employment/2026/06/24/illinois-employer-reveals-permanent-layoffs-across-five-counties/90654935007/

Eklind Tool Company will close its Illinois factory. This closure will result in 112 employee layoffs. The layoffs are scheduled for August 10. The company submitted a WARN notice on June 10. Eklind Tool produces specialized items like hex keys.

Franklin Park, Illinois

https://www.pjstar.com/story/news/state/2026/06/21/illinois-manufacturer-announces-plant-closure-and-layoffs-in-cook-county/90606961007/

DePaul University eliminated 114 positions. These staff reductions were due to a budget crisis. The university simultaneously pursued H-1B foreign-worker hires. Federal records show DePaul filed 20 Labor Condition Applications. These applications for foreign workers were certified.

https://www.campusreform.org/article/depaul-university-pursued-20-h-1b-foreign-worker-hires-amid-layoffs-budget-cuts/29880

Vistra Corp. plans to close three power plants in Illinois. These closures will affect 304 employees across the sites. The company cited economic, environmental, and regulatory factors. Layoffs will occur at Newton in October 2027, Kincaid in January 2028, and Baldwin in February 2028. Vistra will continue to inform employees and community stakeholders.

, Illinois

https://www.pjstar.com/story/news/state/2026/06/15/illinois-power-plants-to-be-shuttered-and-employees-to-lose-jobs/90554807007/

Strauss Borrelli PLLC is investigating Hawthorne Race Course. This investigation concerns a potential mass layoff in Stickney, Illinois. Hawthorne Race Course notified the state of a mass layoff affecting 290 employees on June 3, 2026. The firm believes the company may have violated the federal WARN Act. This act requires 60 days' notice for mass layoffs or plant closings.

Stickney, Illinois

https://straussborrelli.com/2026/06/10/hawthorne-race-course-warn-act-investigation/

Ideal US Talent Systems Worker OpCo LLC is laying off 1,395 Illinois workers. The Minnesota-based company operates a gig worker platform. Layoffs are permanent and began on May 4, continuing through July 2. This action is due to a business restructuring of its temporary worker operations. Ideal is transitioning customer contracts to a third-party partner.

https://www.shawlocal.com/news/2026/06/10/minnesota-based-gig-worker-platform-laying-off-nearly-1400-illinois-workers/

Dana Incorporated will begin layoffs this month. The auto parts manufacturer plans to close its Robinson, Illinois plant. Layoffs are scheduled to start on June 15. More than 80 employees are expected to be affected. The plant closure is a significant loss for the city.

Robinson, Illinois

https://www.pjstar.com/story/news/state/2026/06/07/illinois-business-to-close-plant-and-lay-off-scores-of-employees/90445762007/

An arbitrator ruled against Western Illinois University administration. The university violated a collective bargaining agreement by laying off eleven professionals. Nine faculty librarians and two other bargaining unit members were affected. The ruling orders the university to rescind these layoffs and provide back pay. These layoffs were part of efforts to address a $20 million budget deficit.

Macomb, Illinois

https://www.wgem.com/2026/06/11/arbitrator-rules-favor-laid-off-wiu-faculty-librarians/

Factor will close its meal-prep plant in Burr Ridge. The company is consolidating production to other locations. Its lease at the 340 Shore Drive facility will not be renewed. Layoffs are expected to begin on July 25 for 254 employees. Factor is offering support, including financial help and transfer opportunities.

Burr Ridge, IL

https://patch.com/illinois/burrridge/burr-ridge-plant-closing-summer

Illinois school districts are suing over federal funding cuts. The cut amounts to $18.5 million. A court hearing on the matter occurred today. This reduction has resulted in layoffs. Many school programs were also canceled.

https://www.mystateline.com/video/illinois-schools-sue-over-18-5m-federal-funding-cut-layoffs-and-program-cancellations-ensue/11864598/

Columbia College recently laid off six tenured faculty members. This action addresses declining enrollment and a growing budget deficit. The college has now cut 54 full-time faculty since January 2025. The layoffs impacted the Schools of Communication and Culture and Design. Affected faculty will receive pay through the next academic year.

https://columbiachronicle.com/campus/breaking-college-lays-off-6-tenured-faculty-in-fourth-round-of-cuts/