The U.S. Department of Labor is releasing a $7.2 million National Emergency Grant increment to continue providing re-employment assistance to about 3,200 Florida workers who were impacted by layoffs after the termination of NASA's Space Shuttle Program.

"For nearly 30 years, these dedicated workers provided the technical expertise to make America's space program the greatest in the world," says Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis. "This federal funding will make it possible for them to continue receiving job placement assistance, skills training and other re-employment services so that they can begin new careers."

In 2004, it was decided that the Space Shuttle Program would come to an end, which has resulted in thousands of workers employed by contractors and subcontractors being laid off. With the most recent increment, awarded to Brevard Workforce Development Board Inc., it can continue to fund programs that strive to reduce unemployment time and help workers enhance their skills to attract potential employers. These services include job training and placement as well as related assistance.