Published: March 26, 2009 11:28 pm      

Worker aid extended in Kokomo

Chrysler contract workers are eligible for assistance

Contract or lease workers in the four Chrysler plants in Kokomo are now eligible for benefits through the Indiana Department of Workforce Development.

The U.S. Department of Labor amended its December ruling to provide Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) benefits to workers with Aerotek, American Food & Vending, Wackenhut Security and the TCMA Division.

In December, the Department of Labor announced certain employees at the three Kokomo transmission plants and the casting plant are eligible for assistance under the federal program.

The amended ruling applies to workers totally or partially separated from employment on or after Nov. 14, 2007, and runs through Nov. 14, 2009. The workers produced aluminum transmissions, cases and component parts.

Marc Lotter, spokesman for the Indiana Department of Workforce Development, said the amended declaration now covers workers in the plants that were not employed by Chrysler.

The TAA program provides benefits to help unemployed workers prepare for and obtain suitable employment. They may be eligible for a variety of re-employment services, job search and relocation allowances and training.

At the same time, the Department of Labor issued a certification for Alternative Trade Adjustment Assistance for separated older workers at the Kokomo plants.

A significant number of workers at the company age 50 and over possess skills that are not easily transferable, and that competitive conditions within the industry are adverse, according to the Indiana Department of Workforce Development.

The workers may choose regular TAA benefits or a wage subsidy of 50 percent of the difference between their new salary and old salary, up to $10,000.

Typically management or a group of workers will request the TAA certification from the Department of Labor, according to the Department of Workforce Development.

The exact number of workers is not known until they qualify for assistance.

Eligible workers can get additional information or apply for assistance at WorkOne Centers.

WorkOne Centers are located in Kokomo, Peru, Logansport, Monticello, Marion, Anderson and Lafayette.