WASHINGTON – U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao today announced a $2,361,227 grant, with an initial release of $1,001,196, to provide assistance to approximately 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.

“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.”

On June 30, 2005, Connecticut was awarded a $1 million planning grant to prepare for the effects of the BRAC decisions to close, consolidate and realign 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.

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

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. For more information on National Emergency Grants and Department of Labor employment and training programs, visit www.doleta.gov/NEG/.