Services for
Dislocated Workers

From individual layoffs to wall-to-wall closures, the Washington State Labor Council provides Rapid Response and related services for dislocated workers.

The WSLC brings comprehensive knowledge of dislocated worker programs to its response efforts, as well as an understanding of what workers need to navigate through the state and federal layers and extensive experience in layoff aversion and trade adjustment assistance.

When faced with potential layoffs or closures, workers or representatives are encouraged to contact the WSLC's Workforce Investment Act Labor Liaisons Bill Messenger at bmessenger@wslc.org or 360-357-8736, and/or Chelsea Orvella at corvella@wslc.org or 360-705-9469.
 

What is Rapid Response?

Federal law requires a coordinated response to expected job loss through layoffs and closures. Via timely workshop events, state-designated Rapid Response partners address workers’ questions in person and provide information about available programs and benefits. Such events are coordinated with worker representatives or labor-management committees and vary based on the needs of the workforce.

In Washington State, Rapid Response partners may include: Unemployment Insurance, Washington Employment Security Department; Workforce Development Councils; WorkSource; Community and Technical Colleges; community service organizations; and the Washington State Labor Council and/or other labor representation.

What do workers need to know?

Through response efforts, the Washington State Labor Council works to ensure all dislocated workers have the knowledge to maximize unemployment and reemployment services, including:

• How to avoid common mistakes in claiming Unemployment Insurance and other benefits;

• Opportunities for training that may waive job search requirements and/or extend unemployment benefits;

• Financial support available for tuition, books and supplies;

• If their spouse is a homemaker, how they also may be eligible for training and other benefits;

• The local reemployment resources and community assistance available; and

• Other valuable information to help during this traumatic time.

Trade Adjustment Assistance and Other Services

In addition to Rapid Response efforts, the Washington State Labor Council:

• Helps workers file for Trade Adjustment Assistance when job loss is related to foreign competition or outsourcing;

• Works with labor and management to avert layoffs or closures;

• Serves as a resource for workers throughout their unemployment; and

• Is active in state-wide initiatives to increase family wage jobs in Washington.

Contact Us!

For more information, contact WSLC's Workforce Investment Act Labor Liaisons Bill Messenger at bmessenger@wslc.org or 360-357-8736, and/ or Chelsea Orvella at corvella@wslc.org or 360-705-9469.

Copyright © 2010  Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO