1. Introduction

The 1913 Act that created the Department of Labor (DOL) stated that its purpose "... shall be to foster, promote and develop the welfare of the wage earners of the United States, to improve their working conditions, and to advance their opportunities for profitable employment." At that time, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported the price of pork chops in Washington, D.C. had risen to 22 cents per pound, and that the owners of power laundries in Milwaukee had begun to recognize that safer and healthier work processes benefitted them, as well as their mainly female workforce. Since that simpler era, our national experience has led us to a new comprehension of the nature and scope of the Department's purpose.

Although our vision has matured as the Department has addressed changing economies and a diversified workforce, our responsibility today remains the same. DOL must endeavor that all workers have the opportunity to find and hold secure jobs with good wages, reliable pensions, health benefits, opportunities to improve their skills, and safe and healthful workplaces free from discrimination.

DOL's work is organized around three strategic goals, which are outlined in this FY 2001 Annual Performance Plan. These goals build on our successes and respond to the challenge of helping every working American participate and prosper in today's economy. The three strategic goals are:

These goals bridge the Department's many agencies and programs and serve the common purpose of helping America's workers meet the challenges they face today and in the future.