US Labor Department announces grant to assist Tennessee workers impacted by General Motors Spring Hill Plant closure

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor today announced a $8,397,127 grant to assist about 1,500 workers affected by layoffs at General Motors Spring Hill Assembly Plant in Spring Hill, Tenn. Workers dislocated from the plant are covered by the grant, as are workers from four supplier companies: Johnson Controls, MAPA Spontex, Penske Logistics and Premier Manufacturing Services.

"The Labor Department is focused on getting Americans back to work. Our commitment to that goal includes providing short-term support for those who have lost jobs through no fault of their own – including many workers in auto communities across America," said Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis. "Whenever I meet with auto workers, they tell me they're not looking for a hand out. They want a hand up. That's what this grant is about – enabling them to obtain training and other necessary preparation for the jobs of today and tomorrow."

Awarded to the Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development, the grant will be operated by the South Central Tennessee Workforce Board.

A number of the workers covered by the grant also are certified as eligible for Trade Adjustment Assistance. For those workers, this grant will provide 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 eligible for TAA will have access to the full array of training and employment-related services available under the grant.

Of the $8,397,127 announced today, $4,851,182 will be released initially. Additional funding up to the amount approved will be made available as the state demonstrates a continued need for assistance.

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/.