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United States Department of Labor
United States Department of Labor
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About Us
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) is an agency of the United States Department of Labor. BLS was established in 1884 and is the principal fact-finding agency in the broad field of labor economics and statistics. BLS is an integral part of the U.S. Federal Statistical System. BLS collects, calculates, analyzes, and publishes labor market and economic information essential to the public, employers, researchers, and government organizations.
The first BLS Commissioner, Carroll Wright, described the work of the agency as “conducting judicious investigations and the fearless publication of facts.” That mission continues today. If you ask people at BLS, “Is the glass half empty or half full?” we see an 8-ounce glass containing 4 ounces of liquid.
BLS upholds gold-standard science and provides accurate, objective, timely, relevant, accessible, and innovative data. We adhere to a set of values and principles to be nonpartisan, transparent, and accountable, to maintain the public's trust in federal statistics, and to protect the confidentiality of our data providers.
Mission Statement
The Bureau of Labor Statistics produces objective, quality measures and analysis of labor market activity, working conditions, price changes, and productivity in the U.S. economy to support public and private decision making.
See our strategic plan and more about our work and organization, including data integrity guidelines and statistical policy directives.
We provide accurate information that reflects the current state of the U.S. labor market and economy. Explore how we share data, including an overview of the tools available to help you find what you need. Learn about our quality measures, why we sometimes revise data, and how we correct errors.
We publish economic information and analysis that describe important events and current conditions in the economy.
We employ highly trained professionals and pursue modern survey methods and technologies to constantly improve the quantity and quality of BLS information available to the public.
We provide facts, not opinions.
We provide equal access to our data and are open about our methods and processes so you can have confidence in our products and services. BLS economists and information specialists are available to answer your questions. Contact us or see our Frequently Asked Questions.
We rely on your participation in our surveys. See how you can help us fulfill our mission and how our work connects to your everyday life.