New unemployment numbers show a sharp increase in joblessness in the Olney–Mt. Carmel area, driven largely by the closure of Champion Labs.
According to the Illinois Department of Employment Security, Edwards County’s unemployment rate surged to 14.9 percent in March. That’s up 10.7 percentage points from 4.2 percent in March of last year—by far the highest rate in southern Illinois.
By comparison, Wabash County posted a rate of 5.7 percent, up from 3.5 percent a year ago. Lawrence County came in at 5.3 percent, Richland County at 4.8 percent, and Wayne County at 6.5 percent—all showing modest increases year-over-year.
State officials say the spike in Edwards County was expected following the Champion Labs shutdown, which contributed to significant job losses in the manufacturing sector. Overall, manufacturing employment declined by 675 jobs across the region.
Other sectors seeing losses included private education and health services, trade, transportation and utilities, and leisure and hospitality. Meanwhile, gains were reported in natural resources and mining, with employment in several sectors remaining unchanged.
Massac County recorded the lowest unemployment rate in southern Illinois at 4.6 percent, while Alexander County had the next highest rate behind Edwards at 6.6 percent.
Officials say they will continue to monitor the economic impact as the region adjusts to the plant closure.