News Release
ETA News Release: [July 28, 2003]
Contact Name: Jeannine Lupton
Phone Number: 206-553-7620
U.S. Labor Dept. Announces Assistance for Mackie Design, Inc., Workers in Woodinville, Wash.
SEATTLE - The U.S. Department of Labor has certified approximately 191 Mackie Design, Inc., workers in Woodinville, Wash., as eligible to apply for assistance and benefits under the Trade Act of 1974.
The certification covers the period from July 2, 2002, to July 18, 2005. Workers laid off or reduced to part-time work during this time may be eligible for extra benefits and services.
The certification also covers production workers leased by Mackie from Adecco, Redmond/Bellevue, Wash.; Express Personnel, Everett, Wash.; Onsite, Bellevue; and Remedy, Bellevue.
The affected workers produce professional audio equipment. The Labor Department found that employment at the firm decreased from 2001 to June 2003. The decline in employment was related to a shift in production of professional audio equipment to China. Further, the investigation revealed that imports of such products are likely to increase.
After they are certified as eligible, workers may apply for benefits at a state employment service office. They may receive a broad range of reemployment and retraining services, including career counseling, job placement assistance, job search and relocation allowances and income support during long-term training.
Under the program, a group of three or more employees who believe they are affected by imports can petition the governor of their state for assistance. A union or company official, or a one-stop job service center also can petition on behalf of a firm's workers.
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U.S. Labor Department releases are accessible on the Internet at http://www.dol.gov. The information in this news release will be made available in alternate format upon request (large print, Braille, audio tape or disc) from the COAST office. Please specify which news release when placing your request. Call (202) 693-7773 or TTY (202) 693-7755.
