US Department of Labor announces grant to assist Wisconsin workers and displaced homemakers affected by nuclear power plant closure

WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Labor today awarded an $807,193 National Emergency Grant to assist about 220 individuals affected by the closure of the Kewaunee Power Station in Kewaunee, Wis.

"These workers have specialized job skills needed in the nuclear power industry, and this federal funding will provide a range of re-employment services and opportunities," said acting Assistant Secretary of Labor for Employment and Training Eric Seleznow.

The grant was awarded to the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development and will be administered by the Bay Area Workforce Development Board Inc. Under the grant, affected workers and eligible displaced homemakers will have access to services, including career and skill assessments, job search assistance, support services and training.

In March 2013, the workers at Kewaunee Power Station were provided a notice under the Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act indicating about 632 workers would be affected by the closure of the power plant. While the plant ceased operation on May 7, 2013, decommission of the plant and restoration of the property will take several decades.

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/.