U.S. Department of Labor announces grant exceeding $2 million to assist auto industry workers in Missouri

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor today announced a $2,199,132 grant to assist approximately 574 workers affected by layoffs from automotive industry suppliers across Missouri and in nearby Kansas.

"Today's grant will allow affected Missourians to receive skills assessment, training and job search assistance to transition into new occupations within the local area," said Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis.

Awarded to the Missouri Division of Workforce Development, the grant will provide affected workers with full access to dislocated worker services. Workers eligible for Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) will have use of services that are not available through the TAA program. These services include skills assessment, counseling, case management and job search assistance.

Between January and September 2008, workers were notified of pending dislocations at the following companies: Dakkota Integrated Systems in St. Louis, Mo.; Dura Automotive Systems' Moberly Plant in Moberly, Mo., and its North Plant Hannibal in Hannibal, Mo.; Findlay Industries Inc. in Chesterfield, Mo.; Lear Corp. in Bridgeton and Liberty, Mo.; Logistics Services Inc. in Fenton, Mo.; Mahle Engine Components in Manchester, Mo.; Permacel Automotive in St. Louis, Mo.; Progressive Molded Products in St. Joseph, Mo.; TRW Automotive in Fenton, Mo.; Visteon in Concordia, Mo.; and Superior Industries International Inc. in Pittsburgh, Kan.

Layoffs occurred between April 30 and Dec. 31, 2008.

Of the $2,199,132 announced today, $1,099,566 will be released initially. Additional funding up to the amount approved will be made available as the state demonstrates a continued need for assistance.

National Emergency Grants are part of the secretary of labor's discretionary fund and are awarded based on a state's ability to meet specific guidelines. For more information, visit http://www.doleta.gov/NEG.