An important aspect of the mission of
the BLS is to disseminate to the public the maximum amount of
information possible. Not all data are publicly available because
of the importance of maintaining the confidentiality of BLS data.
However, the BLS has opportunities available on a limited basis for
eligible researchers to access confidential data for purposes of
conducting valid statistical analyses that further the mission of
the BLS as permitted by the Confidential Information Protection and
Statistical Efficiency Act of 2002.
US Code:
29 USC 1 & 2 Name of Law: BLS Authorizing Statute
The burden hours have decreased
because the method of calculating burden for Onsite Researchers has
been altered. Previously, Onsite Researcher burden included the
time to write the research proposal, but not the time to complete
the questionnaire application form. This has been reversed, so that
only the time to complete the questionnaire has been counted in
order to be consistent with CFOI and NLSY burden estimation
methods.
On behalf of this Federal agency, I certify that
the collection of information encompassed by this request complies
with 5 CFR 1320.9 and the related provisions of 5 CFR
1320.8(b)(3).
The following is a summary of the topics, regarding
the proposed collection of information, that the certification
covers:
(i) Why the information is being collected;
(ii) Use of information;
(iii) Burden estimate;
(iv) Nature of response (voluntary, required for a
benefit, or mandatory);
(v) Nature and extent of confidentiality; and
(vi) Need to display currently valid OMB control
number;
If you are unable to certify compliance with any of
these provisions, identify the item by leaving the box unchecked
and explain the reason in the Supporting Statement.