Metzgar, state officials say they're working to help Corsa Coal workers impacted by layoffs
SOMERSET, Pa. – Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry officials plan to meet next week with hundreds of Corsa Coal employees being laid off amid the mining company's closure, officials said.
State Rep. Carl Walker Metzgar, R-Somerset, said he recognized the 'uncertainty' the shutdown creates for the workers and their families – and said that state officials are actively engaged in ensuring they have support available to help them move forward.
The Department of Labor & Industry's Rapid Response Team is stepping in to communicate with employees, as well as Corsa Coal subsidiary Wilson Creek Energy, to ensure that proper support services are provided, officials said.
'I have contacted Gov. (Josh) Shapiro and the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry's Rapid Response team to ensure impacted employees have the necessary services readily available to them,' Metzgar said.
In a message to Corsa Coal employees, he added: 'My office is here to help with unemployment claims or other questions you have during this time.'
Corsa Coal announced the layoffs in March, just two months after filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection as an effort to try to work through financial struggles.
Corsa Coal and its Wilson Creek Energy subsidiary throughout Somerset County are impacted, including 332 workers whose layoffs are effective this Friday.
Last week, a federal bankruptcy judge approved a $23.5 million sale of Corsa mining assets to Johnstown-based LCT Energy and Kittanning-based Rosebud Mining, which both have a significant mining presence in the region.
Rosebud Mining has indicated that approximately 50 of Corsa's workers will be offered work with that company. That would leave many more employees at a difficult crossroads, but state officials are willing to help, Department of Labor & Industry Secretary Nancy A. Walker said.
An informational meeting Tuesday for laid-off Corsa workers will 'immediately connect impacted workers with critical resources and meaningful re-employment opportunities,' she said.
'When workers suddenly lose jobs that provide family-sustaining wages and benefits, the ripple effects are felt throughout our communities,' Walker said.
The Department of Labor & Industry's Rapid Response team is actively engaged with Corsa Coal and Wilson Creek Energy to support affected employees, she said.
Metzgar's office is also available to provide support, he said. Anyone impacted by the closure was invited to stop by 1808 N. Center Ave., Suite 200, Somerset, between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Mondays through Fridays or call 814-443-4230 for assistance, he said.
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