TRADE ACT - TRADE ADJUSTMENT ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

Randy Bachman
Employment Security Department
P.O. Box 9049
Olympia, WA 98507-9046
360.438.3148
rbachman@esd.wa.gov

State Website: http://www.esd.wa.gov/uibenefits/specialservices/overseas/job-moved-overseas.php

Participation: 1,783 participants were served by the Trade Act – Trade Adjustment Assistance Program (TAA) during October 1, 2006-September 30, 2007.

Who is Served: To qualify for services and benefits, the U.S. Department of Labor must certify that a group of workers has been adversely affected by foreign trade. Once certified, each worker applies separately for services and benefits. Various reemployment and training-related services have different criteria and deadlines.

Program Description: The program assists trade-affected workers who have lost their jobs as a result of increased imports or shifts in production out of the United States. Certified workers are assisted in returning to employment. Depending on assessments, individuals may be eligible to receive job search allowances, relocation allowances, or training assistance. They may also be eligible to receive weekly income support benefits or Trade Readjustment allowances once their employment benefits have been exhausted.

Other Program Characteristics: The services that workers receive under this program are offered in conjunction with other assistance provided in WorkSource centers, depending on need.

Program History The Trade Act of 1974 established the TAA program. In 1993, the Trade Act was amended to include the North American Free Trade Agreement—Transitional Adjustment program (NAFTA-TAA). The Trade Act was again amended in 2002 to expand eligibility and increase services and also to repeal the NAFTA-TAA program.

Planning Cycle: Annual.

Outcome Measures:

• Entered employment rate.
• Employment retention rate.
• Earnings increase after six months.

Funding and Regional Division: This program is administered at the state level. Certified workers apply for TAA services through their local WorkSource offices.

State Funding: None.

Federal Funding: $10,373,000 (October 1, 2007-September 30, 2008), U.S. Department of Labor.

Statutory Authority Federal - The Trade Act of 1974 as amended, (P.L. 93–618). The Employment Security Department serves as an agent to the U.S. Department of Labor in administering the program in Washington state.