WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor today announced a $300,000 grant to assist approximately 100 Montana workers affected by layoffs at Stimson Lumber Company, located in Bonner, Montana.

“Stimson Lumber employees have been affected by several recent layoffs, and it is important they receive assistance to adapt their skills to become competitive in new sectors of the economy,” said Assistant Secretary of Labor for Employment and Training Emily Stover DeRocco.

Three Rapid Response sessions, conducted from December 2006 through May 2007, were used to help inform affected workers of the services available to them through the workforce investment system.

Many of the affected workers also have been certified as eligible to apply for Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA).  The TAA program will help pay for these workers to receive training. 

The grant, awarded to the Montana Department of Labor and Industry, will provide services not covered under the TAA program.  Services may include assessment, counseling, case management and other supportive services.

National Emergency Grants are part of the Secretary's discretionary fund and are awarded based on a state's ability to meet specific guidelines. For more information on National Emergency Grants and other Department of Labor employment and training programs, please visit http://www.doleta.gov/NEG/.