US Department of Labor provides additional funding to continue recovery efforts in Puerto Rico following Tropical Storm Otto

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor has announced a $1 million National Emergency Grant increment to continue cleanup and recovery efforts in the wake of Tropical Storm Otto that struck Puerto Rico in October 2010. Awarded to the Puerto Rico Department of Labor and Human Resources, the funds will create temporary jobs for eligible dislocated workers to assist in these efforts.

"Puerto Rico was hit hard by natural disasters last year and is still dealing with the aftermath of Tropical Storm Otto," said Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis. "I am glad my department can offer assistance and help the people of Puerto Rico continue to rebuild and recover."

On Oct. 26, 2010, the Federal Emergency Management Agency declared 21 municipalities in the commonwealth of Puerto Rico eligible for FEMA's Public Assistance Program: Adjuntas, Aibonito, A asco, Gu nica, Guayama, Jayuya, Lares, Las Mar as, Maricao, Mayag ez, Morovis, Orocovis, Patillas, Ponce, Sabana Grande, Salinas, San Germ n, Utuado, Villalba, Yabucoa and Yauco. The declaration was amended on Dec. 3, 2010, to add the municipalities Cayey, Ciales, Corozal and San Larenzo.

On Nov. 23, 2010, the Labor Department approved a National Emergency Grant for up to $4 million, with $1 million released initially. Today's announcement is about a second increment of that grant.

National Emergency Grants are part of the secretary of labor's discretionary fund and are awarded based on a state or territory's ability to meet specific guidelines. For more information, visit http://www.doleta.gov/NEG/.

• Read this news release en Espa ol.