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Connecticut Unemployment

January 19th, 2007 Posted by Amelia

A recent shipyard closing that was a boon for some Maine workers has left many Connecticut workers high and dry. But, U.S. Labor Secretary is using her discretionary funds to ease the transition for more than 300 workers.

Connecticut workers will get a break from the Secretary of State in the near future. U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao recently announced a $2,361,227 grant, to provide assistance to 336 additional workers affected by a second round of layoffs at General Dynamics’ Electric Boat Company (EBC) as a result of Base Realignment and Closure 2005 (BRAC) decisions. Of the total amount, $1,001,196 will be available immediately.

The Connecticut unemployment grant, of just under $7028 per worker, will be used for assessment testing, career counseling and training for new industries. On June 30, 2005, Connecticut was awarded a $1 million preparation grant to prepare for the effects of the BRAC decisions to close, consolidate and realign several federal military installations. EBC was directly affected by the BRAC decision to transfer repair work from the U.S. Navy Submarine Base in Groton, Conn. to the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard in Maine. The move, which was good for some workers in Maine, left many Connecticut workers unemployed.

“Connecticut workers affected by dislocations related to base realignment need to prepare for new careers,” said U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao. “This $2.3 million grant will provide these Connecticut workers with skills training in high-growth industries and other reemployment services to help them transition to new careers.”

Additional services available to workers include skills assessments, job search and relocation assistance and access to peer counselors. Through the grant, the state will provide affected workers with occupational skills training in high demand industries, individual counseling, case management and job training. 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.