US Department of Labor provides grant increment to continue assisting Florida workers impacted by end of Space Shuttle Program

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor today announced a $7.2 million National Emergency Grant increment to continue providing re-employment assistance to approximately 3,200 workers in Florida who were affected by layoffs resulting from the termination of NASA's Space Shuttle Program.

"For nearly 30 years, these dedicated workers provided the technical expertise to make America's space program the greatest in the world," said Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis. "This federal funding will make it possible for them to continue receiving job placement assistance, skills training and other re-employment services so that they can begin new careers."

In 2004, a decision was made to end the Space Shuttle Program. As a result, thousands of workers employed by contractors and subcontractors have been laid off. This increment, awarded to Brevard Workforce Development Board Inc., will continue funding programs that aim to minimize the amount of time the workers are unemployed and assist them in upgrading their skills to attract potential employers. Services provided include job training and placement, and related assistance.

On June 1, 2010, a grant was approved for up to $15 million, with $7.8 million released initially. Today's increment completes the total amount of funding awarded.

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/.