U.S. DEPARTMENT OF LABOR

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Office of Public Affairs

OPA Press Release: Labor Secretary Elaine L. Chao Addresses Ky. Association of Counties

Outlines President’s Back-to-Work Package

OWENSBORO, Ky.— In her first visit to Owensboro as U.S. Secretary of Labor, Elaine L. Chao outlined the president’s Back-to-Work plan and economic stimulus package during remarks to the 2001 Annual Kentucky Association of Counties Conference and Exposition in Owensboro, Ky. She also promoted the work of the Department of Labor and the training programs the department offers to America’s workers.

“The president has moved quickly to restore confidence and vitality in our economy, hard hit by the attacks of September 11^th,” Chao said. “That is why the administration is asking the Senate to pass a stimulus package before the Thanksgiving holidays.”

“The president has proposed a strong stimulus package which includes a robust Back-to-Work program for dislocated workers caused by the September 11^th attacks,” Chao said. “This Back-to-Work plan includes a $10 billion program to extend unemployment benefits an additional 13 weeks beyond the current 26 weeks in states hardest hit. In addition, the president has asked for an additional $3 billion in National Emergency funds to provide resources to individuals for income supplement purposes. These National Emergency Grants will also provide monies for individuals to pay for their health care insurance so they can maintain their benefits.”

If passed by Congress, the president’s Back-to-Work plan will help the economy recover and provide increased assistance to dislocated workers. The proposal will use the existing unemployment benefits system, rather than creating new programs, to provide the re-employment services necessary to stimulate economic growth. The department has also recently widened eligibility requirements for disaster unemployment assistance to help workers harmed by the attacks of September 11^th.

For more information please go to www.dol.gov.

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