The absence of a state budget hasn't kept Gov. Bruce Rauner's administration and other Illinois agencies from hiring more workers.

Illinois comptroller records show that 440 people were added to the payroll in August, more than the previous six-month average and an increase from the previous month. In July, 360 employees were hired, slightly less than the six-month average of 390 per month.

The hires come as the governor moves to lay off some state workers by closing the Illinois State Museum and reducing funding at the Illinois Department of Agriculture.

Rauner spokeswoman Catherine Kelly said the new employees are replacing workers who have left the payroll.

The employees range from high-profile officials to interns.