US Department of Labor awards grant to assist Louisiana workers affected by closure of General Motors assembly plant in Shreveport

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor today announced a $2 million grant to assist about 450 workers who will be affected by the closure of the General Motors assembly plant in Shreveport, La. Layoffs at General Motors and by three of its suppliers – Android Industries LLC, Johnson Controls and Voith Industrial Services Inc. – will begin in August and continue through December.

"Any time a major employer shut its doors, the surrounding community suffers," said Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis. "The federal assistance announced today will connect these workers with critical job training and re-employment services so they can obtain local jobs in growing industries."

Awarded to the Louisiana Workforce Commission, the funds will provide help to the workers in conjunction with services they will receive in the form of Trade Adjustment Assistance benefits. The city of Shreveport is responsible for managing re-employment activities under the grant, including career counseling, job search assistance, training and support services.

Of the $2 million announced today, $510,750 will be released initially. Additional funding up to the amount approved will be made available as the state demonstrates a continued need for assistance.

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/.