Congressman Higgins Announces Federal Help for GM Powertrain Workers
Dept. of Labor Approves Request for TAA
Congressman Brian Higgins (NY-27) announced that the U.S. Department of Labor has approved a request for General Motors Powertrain employee inclusion in the
Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) program.
“Hardworking Western New York families have been devastated by industry shifts that have cut production lines and limited local manufacturing opportunities,” said Congressman Higgins. “This recognition by the Department of Labor will provide much needed assistance to help local autoworkers again get through this setback and back to work.”
The Department of Labor
certified the workers as eligible following an investigation initiated in response to a petition filed on November 2, 2009 by the United Auto Workers (UAW) on behalf of GM Powertrain’s Tonawanda Division. The investigation found that workers engaged in employment related to the production of L850, L18 and Inline gasoline engines were separated from employment due to a shift in production to Mexico.
The TAA program helps workers who have lost their jobs as a result of foreign trade. Under the program, displaced workers are eligible for job training, job search and relocation allowances, income support, a tax credit to help pay the costs of health insurance and other support services.
The Department of Labor certification allows for all workers of GM Powertrain’s Tonawanda Division who became totally or partially separated from employment on or after October 28, 2008 through January 7, 2012 or those threatened with separation between January 7, 2010 and January 7, 2012 to apply for adjustment assistance.
Washington, DC Office 431 Cannon HOB Washington, DC 20515 Phone: 202-225-3306 Fax: 202-226-0347
