$3.5 million Department of Labor grant to assist displaced workers

HELENA, MT - Governor Greg Gianforte, U.S. Senator Steve Daines, U.S. Representative Ryan Zinke and the Montana Department of Labor & Industry (DLI) today announced that the state has received a grant award for $3.5 million to support workers recently laid off from the Sibanye-Stillwater Mine.

“I’m grateful for the work of DLI to secure this important relief for the 700 hardworking miners affected by the recent layoffs at Sibayne-Stillwater Mine,” Gov. Gianforte said. “While more work remains, the State of Montana will continue to come alongside these workers and their families to help them navigate this transition in their lives.”

Following the announcement in September of the upcoming layoffs, DLI submitted a grant proposal of $11.5 million to the federal Department of Labor to provide workforce retraining and support services for the affected miners, their families, and local businesses impacted by the layoffs. 

"The loss of 700 hardworking Montanans is a tragic blow to the communities and the state as a whole,” said U.S. Senator Steve Daines. “I applaud Governor Gianforte and his team for their leadership to support the employees and the counties. I will keep fighting every day to find solutions to grow and protect mining jobs here in Montana.”

“I’m glad to see this much needed relief is coming; however, it is not nearly enough to fill the need requested by the State,” said Congressman Zinke. “This funding is a good start, but much more help is needed. In addition to this bridge funding, Montana miners need better policy to prevent these job losses in the first place, which is why Senator Daines and I are pushing common sense legislation to prevent Russia from manipulating our critical minerals markets and save Montana jobs.”

"This is a meaningful win for the affected workers, their families, and the entire state. The layoff at the Stillwater mine is the largest in recent memory, affecting hundreds of families and severely impacting many communities." Commissioner Sarah Swanson said, "The funding from the Dislocated Worker grant provides workers with more opportunities and additional resources to enhance their skills, pursue further education or training, or enroll as an apprentice in one of the many programs our agency offers."

With the grant funding, DLI will quickly assist workers and their families by providing training and support that helps them transition into new employment sectors. This approach not only aids in their personal career recovery but also promotes the economic stability of the community.