US Department of Labor to continue assistance toward recovery efforts from Tropical Storm Otto in Puerto Rico

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor today announced a $2 million National Emergency Grant increment to continue cleanup and recovery efforts that began in October 2010 following destruction in Puerto Rico caused by Tropical Storm Otto.

"Even after months have passed, Puerto Rico is still dealing with the aftermath of Tropical Storm Otto," said Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis. "The funding being made available today will continue support efforts to restore the island and help its people get back on their feet."

This increment is being awarded to the Puerto Rico Department of Labor and Human Resources.

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, which was subsequently amended to include four additional municipalities. More information on designated disaster areas in Puerto Rico is available from FEMA at http://www.fema.gov/news/event.fema?id=13472.

A National Emergency Grant was approved on Nov. 23, 2010, for up to $4 million. An initial $1 million was released to create temporary jobs for eligible dislocated workers to assist in the cleanup and recovery efforts, and an additional $1 million increment was awarded in April 2011. This latest increment represents the remaining funding available under the original grant.

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