Labor productivity can have a profound effect on economic performance, and public policy can have major impacts on labor productivity. Public policies to enhance labor productivity while promoting economic security include the introduction of minimum wages, job-training programs, earned-income tax credits, and reform of school curricula. The potential need for a universal basic income policy is also being debated as automation reduces the need for certain types of labor. Immigration policy, which also affects labor productivity and wages, is commanding ever-increasing attention in response to international refugee crises and growing security concerns. The role of social networks in matching employer needs with employee skills is also an important area of research in labor economics.
Primary Labor Economics researchers: