Worker Adjustment Assistance Under the Trade Act of 1974: Problems in Assisting Auto Workers

Congress has recognized that increased imports resulting from expanded international trade could adversely affect certain workers and firms within the United States and has directed that segments of the economy affected by increased import competition receive various forms of monetary and nonmonetary adjustment assistance. The Worker Adjustment Assistance Program is administered by the Department of Labor through State employment agencies and provides eligible unemployed workers with weekly allowances; training, counseling, and job referral; and job search and relocation allowances. As of June 30, 1976, 149,800 workers from the auto industry were certified as eligible to apply for adjustment assistance.