MLS Program Description

Mass Layoff Statistics

The Mass Layoff Statistics (MLS) program is a standardized, automated approach to identifying, describing, and tracking the impact of major permanent job cutbacks. The data collected in this program provide detailed information on these cutbacks and the resultant unemployment registered at the State and area levels. Under this program, data are developed for the 50 States, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) administers the MLS program and provides conceptual, technical, and procedural guidance in the development of the required data. State agencies are responsible for data collection and publication in cooperation with the BLS.

For the BLS to meet program requirements, State agencies will develop and transmit reports on the status of MLS activities via the computerized windows-based MLS operating system known as WinMLS. This system generates a summary report for monthly submittal and a more comprehensive report for quarterly submittal.

The BLS will work with States to minimize any adverse impacts that may result from any extraordinary workload increases that may result from inclusion of program enhancements as may be recommended by the joint BLS/ETA/State work group.