US Department of Labor announces nearly $2.4 million grant to assist workers in Idaho affected by electronics industry layoffs

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor today announced a $2,398,800 grant to assist about 1,000 workers affected by layoffs at Micron Technology Inc. in Boise, Idaho.

"Helping these workers access the employment and retraining services they need to secure family-supporting jobs is the right thing to do. It is also a wise investment in the future of Idaho and the nation as a whole," said Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis.

Awarded to and operated by the Idaho Department of Labor, this grant will provide covered dislocated workers, most of whom are also certified as eligible for Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA), with access to "wrap-around" and supportive services, such as dependent care and transportation assistance, that are not available through the TAA program. Workers who are not TAA-eligible will have access to the full array of dislocated worker services available under the grant.

Layoffs at Micron Technology Inc. have been occurring over the past two years as a result of restructuring. This grant will provide services to workers dislocated throughout 2009.

Of the $2,398,800 announced today $1,110,504 will be released initially. Additional funding up to the amount approved will be made available as the state demonstrates a continued need for assistance.

This grant 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/.