Ex-Monson workers eligible for federal aid

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor has certified that workers who lost their jobs at Moosehead Manufacturing Co. Inc. are eligible for federal trade adjustment assistance, according to U.S. Sens. Olympia Snowe and Susan Collins.

The purpose of the TAA program is to aid workers who lose their jobs or whose hours of work and wages decrease as a result of increased imports.

Moosehead Manufacturing, a family-owned business based in Monson, is a manufacturer of hardwood household furniture. The company, which currently employs more than 150 workers, has had to lay off more than 50 employees in recent years, allegedly because of unfair competition from China.

As a part of the TAA program, Moosehead Manufacturing workers will be eligible for employment training in another job or career, income support, job search allowance, and relocation services for individuals who obtain jobs outside of their normal commuting area.