Bureau of Labor Statistics

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), part of the DEPARTMENT OF LABOR, is the principal agency providing labor statistics in the United States. The most important BLS statistics generated each month are the CONSUMER PRICE INDEX (CPI), the UNEMPLOYMENT rate, and the PRODUCER PRICE INDEX (PPI). The CPI is the most widely used and quoted measure of INFLATION. Changes in the unemployment rate are a major indicator of strength or weakness in the economy. The PPI measures prices received by producers and is a leading indicator of future price changes for consumers. In addition, the BLS measures productivity; average hourly earnings; demographic characteristics of the LABOR FORCE; and wages, earnings, and benefits by area, occupation, and industry. BLS statistics are available through the Occupational Outlook Handbook and other publications.