US Department of Labor provides grant to assist workers affected by layoffs at Idaho National Laboratory

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor has awarded a $1,045,616 National Emergency Grant to assist approximately 175 workers laid off by three contractors – Battelle Energy Alliance, Bechtel Bwxt Idaho LLC and CH2M WG Idaho LLC – working for the Idaho National Laboratory in Idaho Falls, Idaho.

"These workers have specialized skills that don't easily translate to new employers," said Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis. "The federal grant announced today will help them to more effectively market their current skills and also to obtain new skills needed by growing local industries."

Awarded to the Idaho Department of Labor, the grant will provide intensive employment and support services to help these dislocated workers re-enter the workforce in growing sectors of the local economy such as the hospitality industry, education, health care, retail, transportation and warehousing, as well as professional, scientific and technical services.

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/.