U.S. Department of Labor announces $4.1 million to continue helping auto workers affected by layoffs

National Emergency Grant provided during 1st Michigan trip for Secretary Solis

TROY, Mich. – The U.S. Department of Labor today announced the release of $4,125,000 in National Emergency Grant funds to continue helping approximately 1,500 workers affected by permanent closures and mass layoffs in Michigan's automotive industry.

Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis announced the funding increment during a visit to Compact Power Inc., a Troy company that is bringing the power of lithium-ion poly battery technology to North America for hybrid electric and plug-in electric vehicles in the automotive, commercial and military markets.

Gov. Jennifer M. Granholm accepted this time-limited funding in response to the massive layoffs the state has faced as a result of the economic downturn.

Solis and Granholm highlighted the worker retraining efforts that are already underway in the state.

"Despite this tough economy, Gov. Granholm is ensuring that Michigan leads the way in this new green economy," Secretary Solis said. "The work that is being done here is at the heart of our emerging green economy. These green jobs will guarantee a bright future for Michigan, and they will also ensure a bright future for the United States."

A National Emergency Grant for up to $6,600,000 was approved on June 4, 2008, with $2,475,000 released initially. The additional $4,125,000 awarded today is in response to the demonstrated continuing employment need of Michigan's auto workers.

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/.