Wisconsin Gov.: $2.3 Million to Assist GM and other auto workers in Wisconsin

July 01, 2009 -- MADISON – Wisconsin Governor Jim Doyle announced today more than $2.3 million in additional assistance for dislocated workers at General Motors and three other manufacturers in south central Wisconsin affected by GM’s decision to end production at the Janesville assembly plant. The funds will be used to help dislocated workers with training related expenses and with expenses for job search activities.

“While I am deeply disappointed by GM’s decision not to reopen the Janesville plant, this additional assistance will help the hardworking families of south central Wisconsin find new employment,” Governor Doyle said. “I am committed to doing everything in my power to help, not only the workers who were employed at the GM plant, but those working at other auto manufacturers in south central Wisconsin.”

When GM started cutting production last year, the U.S. Department of Labor made more than $1.6 million immediately available at Governor Doyle’s request to assist 785 affected workers at GM, Lear Corporation, and Logistics Services, Inc., all in Janesville, and United Industries, in Beloit.

At the time, a National Emergency Grant exceeding $3.8 million, one of the biggest awarded to the state, was pledged by the federal agency. The amount announced today by Governor Doyle is the second installment.

The National Emergency Grant (NEG) program provides funding to states when significant events create a sudden need for assistance. As with the initial payment, the $2.3 million will fund a full array of employment and training services to the affected workers.

Services are being coordinated by the Department of Workforce Development and provided through the Southwest Wisconsin Workforce Development Board. NEG funding is being coordinated with resources available through the Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) program. The project commits significant resources to occupational retraining.

Supportive services include travel payments, child care and other training related expenses. Workers with skills in demand are being assisted in job search activities including workshops on resumes, interviewing and analysis of transferable skills. Those determined to need skill development to find suitable employment will have a variety of training options to select from.

Governor Doyle encourages all affected workers to contact their local Job Center to inquire about services by visiting www.wisconsinjobcenter.org/directory or toll free at 888-258-9966.

Source: Wisconsin Governor