EMPLOYMENT AND LABOR LAW: US DOL Releases $3.5 Million to Help Displaced Goodyear Tennessee Workers

November 8, 2011

Washington - The US Department of Labor (DOL) has released some $ 3,448,259 in grant to help about 850 workers who were laid off in July when the Goodyear Tire and Rubber Co. facility in Union City, Tennessee closed down, a statement released from the agency website said.

Labor Secretary Hilda Solis said in the statement that the grant will fund training and other services. She said that by updating and enhancing their skills, the workers will be better prepared for their re-employment.

The grant was awarded to the Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development as a result of their eligibility through Trade Assistance benefits.

The grant will be given only to Goodyear workers who were affected by the lay off as well as eligible family members. Some $ 1,329, 650 of the grant will be released initially as additional funding will be given later if the state needs further assistance.

The National Emergency Grants are part of DOL’s discretionary funds which are awarded based on the state’s ability to meet specific guidelines.