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EBSA News Release: [06/17/2003]
Contact Name: Gloria
Della
Phone Number: (202) 693-8666
Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao Re-Opens New York
Office Destroyed in 9/11 Terrorist Attacks
NEW YORK—U.S. Secretary
of Labor Elaine L. Chao today dedicated the Department of Labor’s New York
regional office for the Employee Benefits Security Administration (EBSA) during
a ribbon-cutting ceremony. The EBSA offices were located in the World Trade
Center destroyed in the terrorist attacks on 9/11. The agency is now operating
from its permanent location at 33 Whitehall St., Suite 1200, New York, N.Y.
10004.
“Working out of the now destroyed 6 World Trade Center, our New
York employees witnessed some of the most traumatic sights of the aftermath of
the attacks on September 11th. Like so many other Americans, many
moved to help victims of the terrorist attacks,” said Chao. “Despite
the trauma and subsequent dislocations in the months afterwards, they carried
on their responsibilities with dedication and professionalism. The staff's
tireless work amidst such adversity is a shining example of excellence in
public service. The re-opening of this office is a great day for our employees
and the work they do on behalf of American workers.”
The Secretary also took part in the award ceremony honoring regional
office employees for exceptional achievements. Chao was especially proud to
present employees with award plaques replacing ones destroyed on September
11th as well as awards honoring the professionalism and
distinguished work of employees over the past year.
Ann L. Combs, assistant secretary of EBSA said, “Our New York
office is located at the pinnacle of America’s financial center and
handles some of the most complex financial cases involving employee benefits.
Throughout the re-building process, employees have shown unswerving commitment
to serve the needs of the public.”
EBSA’s New York office is responsible for enforcement as well as
assistance and outreach to employers and employees covering the southern
counties of New York and the northern counties of New Jersey. Since the
destruction of the office on September 11, 2001, employees have recovered $121
million for plans through enforcement of the Employee Retirement Income
Security Act (ERISA). The office also handled over 13,000 inquiries from the
public, resulting in the recovery of an additional $7.6 million for plan
participants.
The public can reach the office at (212) 607-8600 or toll-free at
1-866-444-3272.
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