Gov. Gregoire�s statement on Washington Mutual layoffs

For Immediate Release: November 19, 2008

OLYMPIA � Gov. Chris Gregoire today released the following statement on state efforts to assist Washington Mutual employees:

�The layoffs by Washington Mutual are not unexpected, but it�s still difficult news for the company�s employees, their families and our state. Our highest priority is to help workers who made Washington Mutual so great find other good jobs as quickly as possible.

�The state�s Employment Security Department and the local rapid response team will step in quickly to help the workers file for unemployment insurance and explore other job opportunities.

�The layoffs are yet another example of how the slowing national economy continues to hurt Washington state. I have pledged to work with Washington�s congressional delegation and President-elect Obama to develop a second federal economic stimulus package. I am also committed to developing a state-sponsored stimulus package to put Washingtonians back to work and build a strong, sustainable economy.�