HUDSON, Wis. (AP) — The U.S. Department of Labor is providing a $918,010 grant so Wisconsin can provide services to about 325 workers being affected by layoffs in western Wisconsin.
The National Emergency Grant is being awarded to the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development. The funds are intended to subsidize services for workers being laid off at Polaris Industries in Osceola and Robin Manufacturing USA Inc. in Hudson.
Labor Secretary Hilda Solis says the majority of those workers have been at the same factory jobs for many years. She says that longevity, along with other factors, makes it important for the government to help them upgrade their skill sets.
The Polaris facility makes all-terrain vehicles. Robin Manufacturing made small engines for ATVs before it closed last month.
National Emergency Grants are awarded based on a state's ability to meet specific guidelines.