Mass Layoff Statistics (MLS)
About Mass Layoff Statistics
Description: MLS identifies and tracks the effects of major layoffs through a standardized analysis of unemployment insurance claims activity.
Data source: MLS is a federal-state cooperative program between the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and state agencies. Monthly data are based on the administrative records of unemployment insurance filings. Minnesota's MLS program reports a mass layoff when at least 50 workers are laid off for more than 30 days. Analysis is supplemented with employer confirmation of layoffs and plant closings and additional employer-provided data.
National data: www.bls.gov/mls/
What can it provide for you?
Summary statistics on major layoffs, by state and time period.
- Socioeconomic characteristics of unemployment insurance claimants, including age, race, gender, industry, occupation and education level.
- Post-layoff employment status and earnings of affected workers.
- Details for deciding how to allocate federal funds for dislocated workers.
- Analysis of potentially available workforce.
- Analysis of ailing industries or geographical areas.
How is the data formatted? Viewable tables
Definitions: Minnesota's MLS program reports a mass layoff when at least 50 workers are laid off by their employer for more than 30 days. The program distinguishes seasonal layoffs from layoffs due to other economic conditions.
Important notes: The MLS program was resumed in April 1995. Due to changes in concepts and definitions, however, data from the resumed program are not comparable to earlier data.
More about the data: Additional information about the Mass Layoff Statistics program can be found at the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Web site at www.bls.gov/mls/.
Questions regarding the Minnesota data can be addressed to the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development at 651-259-7384 or deed.lmi@state.mn.us.