Statement from Governor Gregoire on Layoffs at Tyson Wallula Plant

For Immediate Release: August 18, 2006

�I was saddened to learn that Tyson Fresh Meats will be closing one of the shifts at the Wallula beef processing plant. Many of the laid-off workers have been employed by the company for a number of years and I know that this closure will negatively impact their families and communities.

�I want these workers to know that I have directed the Employment Security Department to immediately form a rapid response team that will provide on-site services such as help filing for unemployment insurance, individual re-employment plans and assistance with training for new careers if necessary. A transition committee made up of representatives from the workforce and the management will be formed to identify the needs of the workers and to strategize and coordinate delivery of needed resources and services.

�My office will continue to do what we can to help everyone get through the next few months and into a new job.�

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Attached is information on state resources available to affected workers.