U.S. Department of Labor certifies nearly 550 auto workers in 3 states as eligible for Trade Adjustment Assistance

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor today announced that nearly 550 workers in auto-related industries in Indiana, Michigan and Pennsylvania are eligible to apply for Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA).

"Over the years, our nation has benefited immensely from the work and dedication of those employed in auto-related industries across these states," said Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis. "Trade Adjustment Assistance is one way we can support these workers as they seek re-employment in promising regional industries that pay family-supporting wages."

Workers eligible to apply through today's certifications include approximately 290 workers from L and L Products Inc., Romeo, Mich.; approximately 32 workers from Progressive Metal Stamping Co., Royal Oak, Mich.; approximately 67 workers from Flabeg Automotive US Corp., Brackenridge, Pa.; and approximately 155 workers from Noble Metal Processing, Butler, Ind.

Workers covered by these certifications will be contacted by their respective states with instructions on how to apply for individual benefits and services. Those who do apply may receive case management and re-employment services, training in new occupational skills and trade readjustment allowances that provide income support for workers enrolled in training. Some workers may also receive job search and relocation allowances and the Health Coverage Tax Credit.

Workers 50 years of age and older may elect to receive Re-employment Trade Adjustment Assistance (RTAA), which was created under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. If a worker obtains new employment at wages less than $55,000 and less than those earned in adversely affected employment, the RTAA program will pay 50 percent of the difference between the old wage and the new wage, up to $12,000 over a two-year period. RTAA participants may also be eligible for retraining and the Health Coverage Tax Credit.

"These TAA certifications will allow displaced workers from auto suppliers in Michigan, Indiana and Pennsylvania to access much needed resources," said Dr. Ed Montgomery, executive director of the White House Council on Automotive Communities and Workers. "The White House Council's priority is to cut red tape so that the workers and communities hard hit during this economic crisis get the assistance they need today, while creating opportunities for growth and revitalization."

For more information on Trade Adjustment Assistance and the range of Department of Labor employment and training services, visit http://www.doleta.gov.