State Senator AJ Wilhelmi Hosts Umemployment Workshop for Local Businesses

JOLIET - On September 28, 2011 State Senator AJ Wilhelmi (D-Joliet) hosted a workshop on unemployment insurance and the services offered by the Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) at Joliet Junior College. "I am committed to working with local business leaders to improve our state's business climate and help them create good-paying jobs," Wilhelmi said.  "Unemployment insurance is an important partnership between businesses, the State, and workers.  The purpose of this workshop is to help employers learn the ins and outs of the unemployment system." More than 40 business owners, managers, and entrepreneurs attended the workshop, where a representative from IDES answered questions and explained some of the services the department offers to Illinois companies.  He explained how businesses can file unemployment insurance complaints, detailed various state incentives for hiring new workers, shared Illinois labor market information, and demonstrated the Illinois Skills Match Exchange System, an online tool that helps employers find workers with the skills they need. "The Department of Employment Security does more than just manage the unemployment insurance system," Wilhelmi explained.  "It works with job creators and other state agencies to make sure state government is helping our economy grow and producing jobs.  It is important for local businesses to be aware of the tools the State of Illinois has developed to help them succeed." Wilhelmi emphasized that he wants to work with local businesses to improve the Will County economy and strengthen Illinois' place in the global economy. "I encourage any business owner or manager who has a question or concern about state rules and regulations to contact my office," he added.  "I also welcome ideas about how state government can help develop our local and state economy.  My door is always open."