A federal assistance program that has supported displaced workers since 1974 expired on July 1 and re-authorization of the program depends on Congress, the U.S. Department of Labor announced recently.
The Trade Adjustment Assistance for Workers Program (TAA), established by the Trade Act of 1974, has assisted more than 2.5 million workers who lost jobs or income as a result of global trade. The TAA provides eligible workers with skills training, income assistance, job-search and relocation allowances and other resources, according to the DOL.
“The termination of TAA affects nearly 100,000 workers annually who depend on adjustment assistance,” DOL Secretary Marty Walsh said in a July 1 statement. “Additionally, thousands of workers who experience layoffs after June 30, 2022, and would have been entitled to receive benefits will no longer be eligible for TAA – even if they have a certified petition.”
Walsh said the Labor Department is examining how workers can be assisted through other Employment and Training Administration workforce programs, according to the statement. He said the agency has published a "training and employment guidance letter" explaining the status of operations including petitions, investigations, funding and benefits administration for TAA participants after June 30.
“Only Congress can affirm the importance of TAA and reauthorize the program," Walsh said in the statement. "Until then, the department will continue to work with state officials to administer all entitlements under the TAA for Workers Program until the last worker leaves."
