After flooding and mudslides in Washington, US Labor Department
provides funds to assist with cleanup and recovery efforts

WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Labor has announced a $2,867,947 National Emergency Grant to assist with cleanup and recovery efforts following the flooding and mudslide that occurred in Snohomish County on March 22. This grant will provide aide to the affected community in Oso, Washington.

"A massive mudslide and flooding caused tremendous devastation to the small rural community of Oso," said Secretary of Labor Thomas E. Perez. "Today's grant will assist the important recovery work and help those in need of employment contribute to the cleanup efforts through temporary employment opportunities."

Awarded to the Washington State Employment Security Department, these funds will be used to create temporary jobs to assist with the recovery efforts.

On April 2, 2014, the Federal Emergency Management Agency declared Snohomish County, Sauk-Suiattle Indian Reservation, Stillaguamish Indian Reservation and Tulalip Indian Reservation as eligible for its Public Assistance Program. More information on designated disaster areas in Washington is available from FEMA at http://www.fema.gov/ar/disaster/4168/designated-areas.

Of the $2,867,947 announced today, $955,982 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.