Letter to Thomas Perez, Secretary of Labor - Trade Adjustment Assistance for Displaced Workers from Old Town Fuel and Fiber

Letter

Dear Mr. Secretary:

We are writing in support of the recently filed Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) petition to assist approximately 200 workers at Old Town Fuel and Fiber, of Old Town, Maine, who have been displaced as a result of substantially reduced demand for the mill's products due to foreign competition. The significantly lower cost of Eucalyptus pulp from Brazil, coupled with the high cost of energy and fiber, have made it incredibly difficult for the company to compete in the international marketplace. Given recent layoff announcements at other mills in this region, this further loss of employment is a devastating blow to central Maine.

Given the significant loss of jobs throughout Maine's pulp and paper industry in recent years, the laid-off workers will have to make a tremendous effort to find alternative employment. Since many related wood product manufacturers have already experienced closures as a result of similar declines in business due to foreign trade, it is likely to be very difficult, if not virtually impossible, for these workers to find comparable positions, and they may require retraining for other emerging occupations. Thus, it is crucial that these workers receive certification under the TAA program.

We urge that you review Old Town Fuel and Fiber's TAA application as expeditiously as possible, consistent with your rules and regulations, to ensure that the workers receive the assistance they need to secure work and maintain their financial stability.

Thank you for your consideration on behalf of the workers at Old Town Fuel and Fiber in Old Town, Maine.

Sincerely,

Susan M. Collins
United States Senator

Angus S. King, Jr.
United States Senator

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