US Department of Labor provides grant increment to continue storm recovery efforts in California

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor has awarded a $7,511,960 National Emergency Grant increment to the California Employment Development Department to continue cleanup and recovery efforts in the wake of the severe storms that struck California between Dec. 17, 2010, and Jan. 4, 2011.

"Last winter's storms wreaked havoc in California, causing floods, mud flows and damage throughout the state," said Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis. "Recovery does not happen overnight, and the Obama administration is committed to helping these communities rebuild. This continued assistance will fund temporary jobs for eligible dislocated workers, who will help repair public facilities."

On Jan. 26, the Federal Emergency Management Agency declared 10 California counties eligible for FEMA's Public Assistance Program: Inyo, Kern, Kings, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara and Tulare. The declaration was amended on March 3 to include Madera and Mariposa counties. More information on designated disaster areas in California is available from FEMA at http://www.fema.gov/news/event.fema?id=13612.

The Labor Department approved a grant on Feb. 23 for up to $11,267,940, with $3,755,980 released initially. Today's second and final increment completes the distribution of this National Emergency Grant.

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/.