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by phonon 314 days ago
Survey response rates have decreased significantly since Covid, and budgets for statistical agencies have decreased.

"LS surveys firms in the payrolls survey over the course of three months, gaining a more complete picture as more businesses respond. But a smaller share of firms are responding to the first poll. Initial collection rates have repeatedly slid below 60% in recent months — down from the roughly 70% or more that was the norm before the pandemic.

Statistical agencies have also struggled with tighter budgets and staffing constraints, which have only grown more acute in the Trump administration.

“We are seeing these cuts to funding for government agencies affect their ability to collect and analyze economic data,” said Gregory Daco, chief economist at EY-Parthenon. “And for all of the reports that the Bureau of Labor Statistics is conducting, there is likely to be more volatility going forward."[0]

[0] https://archive.is/84YPk