DOL Announces $4.1 Million to Help Auto Workers Affected by Layoffs
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Wednesday, May 13, 2009 |
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The
U.S. Department of Labor announced the release of $4,125,000 in
National Emergency Grant funds to continue helping approximately 1,500
workers affected by permanent closures and mass layoffs in Michigan's
automotive industry.
Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis announced
the funding increment during a visit to Compact Power Inc., a Troy
company that is bringing the power of lithium-ion poly battery
technology to North America for hybrid electric and plug-in electric
vehicles in the automotive, commercial and military markets.
Gov.
Jennifer M. Granholm accepted this time-limited funding in response to
the massive layoffs the state has faced as a result of the economic
downturn.
Solis and Granholm highlighted the worker retraining efforts that are already underway in the state.
"Despite
this tough economy, Gov. Granholm is ensuring that Michigan leads the
way in this new green economy," Secretary Solis said. "The work that is
being done here is at the heart of our emerging green economy. These
green jobs will guarantee a bright future for Michigan, and they will
also ensure a bright future for the United States."
A National
Emergency Grant for up to $6,600,000 was approved on June 4, 2008, with
$2,475,000 released initially. The additional $4,125,000 awarded today
is in response to the demonstrated continuing employment need of
Michigan's auto workers.
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/.
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