US Department of Labor provides continued assistance for recovery efforts in Texas following Hurricane Alex

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor has announced a $3,849,481 National Emergency Grant increment to continue cleanup and recovery efforts in southern Texas in the wake of Hurricane Alex. This increment, awarded to the Texas Workforce Commission, will fund temporary jobs for eligible dislocated workers to assist in those efforts.

"The floodwaters have receded, but many communities are still cleaning up, and I am glad my department can provide assistance," said Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis. "These funds will help the people of Texas rebuild and get back on their feet."

On Aug. 3, 2010, the Federal Emergency Management Agency declared the following counties eligible for FEMA's Public Assistance Program: Cameron, Hidalgo, Jim Hogg, Jim Wells, Maverick, Starr, Webb, Willacy and Zapata.

On Sept. 14, 2010, the Labor Department approved a National Emergency Grant for up to $5,849,481, with $2 million released initially. The award announced today is the second and final increment.

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/.