U.S. Department of Labor announces more than $3.4 million to continue to assist Minnesota workers affected by manufacturing industry layoffs

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor today announced a $3,446,051 National Emergency Grant increment to continue to assist workers across the state of Minnesota affected by layoffs from five companies in the manufacturing and retail industries: Celestica, Hutchinson Technology Inc., International Business Machines (IBM), Seagate Technology Inc. and Target.

"Minnesotans laid off from these companies need continued access to training and employment services in order to re-enter the workforce in growing industries," said Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis. "This grant increment offers another important step toward the economic recovery of Minnesota and the nation."

This second and final increment will be awarded to the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development. Funds will be used to continue the delivery of re-employment assistance, including training, assessment, and career counseling to affected workers.

On June 10, 2009, a National Emergency Grant with an initial release of $1,322,649 was awarded to serve approximately 1,109 workers. The state's application for the increment announced today was received on Aug.12, 2009, and brings the total award to $4,768,700.

The amount released today will be funded by resources made available for National Emergency Grants under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.

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/.