The Local Area Unemployment Statistics program is a federal and state cooperative venture that counts the number of people working— not jobs—by where they live. The data collected includes individuals either working or actively seeking work during any part of the week that includes the 12th of the month. The results are used to develop monthly labor estimates of labor force statistics—the number of persons employed, unemployed and the unemployment rate—at the state, county, labor market area level and for selected cities. Labor force data are used by state and loval governments for economic development, budget planning and training programs. These estimates are also used to determine eligibilty for benefits in various federal assistance programs. The U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics Web site has more information on the Local Area Unemployment Statistics program.
*Local Area Unemployment Statistics Program Official Release Dates.