ETA News Release: [Nov. 17, 2004]
Contact Name: Lorette Post or Public Affairs
Phone Number: 202-693-3984 or 202-693-4676
U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao Announces $937,000 Grant to Aid Dislocated Wisconsin Workers
WASHINGTON -- U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao today announced a National Emergency Grant of $937,283 to assist dislocated workers in Wisconsin. The grant will have an initial release of $398,989.
"The President and I want to ensure that dislocated workers get the training and assistance they need to prepare for new and better careers," said U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao. "This grant will help workers affected by layoffs at three Wisconsin companies, many of whom have minimal skills and language barriers. Among the services for which they are eligible are remedial education, English language classes, comprehensive assessment, occupational training and supportive services."
"These services are being provided in addition to Trade Adjustment Assistance services which are available to eligible workers who have lost their jobs as a result of trade. Through Trade Adjustment Assistance, these workers can receive up to two years of training as well as job search assistance and relocation expenses. Trade-certified workers are also eligible to receive up to two years of income support," continued Secretary Chao. "The government will also pay up to 65 percent of health insurance premiums. If workers are over the age of 50 and qualify for the Alternative TAA program, the government will pay 50 percent of the wage differential if they get a new job that pays less than their old job."
Awarded to the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development, the grant will assist approximately 160 workers from Dane and Jefferson counties. The workers lost their jobs when three separate plants closed permanently - Dean Foods Morningstar Dairy in Madison; Interpane in Deerfield, and Schweiger Division of KCS in Jefferson.
National Emergency Grants are part of the Secretary's discretionary fund and are awarded based on a state's ability to meet specific guidelines.
For more information on the Department of Labor's employment and training programs, please visit www.doleta.gov.
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