U.S. Department of Labor announces more than $2.2 million to continue to assist Wisconsin workers impacted by auto industry layoffs

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor today announced a $2,203,292 National Emergency Grant increment to continue to assist approximately 1,515 Wisconsin workers impacted by automotive industry layoffs and plant closures in Rock County, Wis.

"These workers deserve training and employment services that will allow them to re-enter the workforce," said Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis. "The department is committed to helping auto workers upgrade existing skills or pursue new careers in promising regional industries."

"Today's announcement is just one step the administration is taking to ensure that Janesville workers and their families have the support they need during these very hard economic times," added Dr. Ed Montgomery, executive director of the White House Council on Auto Communities and Workers. "Auto workers in Janesville and across the U.S. have worked tirelessly and made great sacrifices for this industry, which has been devastated by this economic downturn. The president and Secretary Solis are 100 percent committed to standing with Wisconsin's workers and making sure we both help them through the current crisis and build a strong American manufacturing industry for the future."

On Oct. 3, 2008, a National Emergency Grant for up to $3,811,892, with $1,608,600 released initially, was awarded to serve approximately 784 workers. On April 22, 2009, a modification to the grant allowed the state to expand the group of targeted workers, resulting in the total of 1,515 participants.

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/.