Washington – Congressman Dale E. Kildee (D-MI) announced today that he helped secure $11,717,661 in federal funds that will be used to train thousands of workers in Michigan who have lost their jobs due to trade related dislocations.

“Michigan’s workforce is exceptional. Unfortunately, trade practices have caused many hard-working people in Michigan to lose their jobs. These funds will help solve that problem,” Congressman Kildee said. “I will continue to do everything I can to ensure our workers have the support they need so they can continue providing the goods and services we rely on every day.”  

Currently, several job training agencies in Michigan are experiencing funding shortfalls and have had to put eligible workers on training waiting lists. This disruption impacts the ability of workers to enter training and return to suitable employment to support their families.

The funds that Congressman Kildee helped secure will help Michigan Works! Association, which works to promote and improve the state’s workforce, provide training assistance to 7,500 local workers. These funds come from the Department of Labor’s Trade Adjustment Assistance program.

To secure this funding, Congressman Kildee signed a letter that went to the Department of Labor last month stressing the importance of Michigan’s workforce.