US jobs report delayed again amid government shutdown

• The delayed report will provide critical data on the US labor market after 2025 saw the weakest job growth since 2020, with only 584,000 jobs added compared to 2 million in 2024
• The BLS has already faced significant disruptions from a 43-day shutdown in October-November, the longest federal government shutdown in US history
• The current shutdown stems from Democratic senators demanding restrictions on ICE agents following killings of two US citizens by federal agents last month

Summary: US Jobs Report Delayed Again Amid Government Shutdown

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) announced Monday that the January 2026 jobs report, originally scheduled for release on Friday, February 6, 2026, will be postponed indefinitely due to the ongoing government shutdown. While data collection has been completed, federal funding is required to process and release the report.

Key Context:

The delayed report is particularly significant as it would provide critical insights into the US labor market following the weakest year for job growth since 2020. The US economy added only 584,000 jobs in 2025, a sharp decline from 2 million jobs in 2024.

Shutdown Background:

This marks the second major disruption to BLS operations, following a 43-day shutdown in October-November—the longest in US history. The current funding lapse stems from a congressional standoff over Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) restrictions, triggered by federal agents killing two US citizens last month.

Democratic senators are blocking Department of Homeland Security (DHS) funding bills, demanding new restrictions on ICE agents. While the Senate passed five agency funding measures through September and a two-week DHS bill on Friday, House Democrats have not committed to supporting the measures.

Market Implications:

The delay creates uncertainty for traders and investors who rely on monthly employment data to gauge economic health and anticipate Federal Reserve policy decisions. The jobs report is among the most closely watched economic indicators, influencing equity markets, bond yields, and currency valuations. The postponement adds to market volatility during an already weak employment environment.