ODEP Webcast

According to the U.S. Departmentof Labor - In carrying out President Obama's pledge to work toward "an unprecedented level of openness in government," the Office of Disability Employment Policy, joined by leaders across the federal government, hosted a live webcast Sept. 13 to exchange information and perspectives on new and innovative open government strategies. Speakers included Carl Fillichio, the department's senior advisor for communications and public affairs; Michael Reardon, ODEP policy advisor and ePolicyWorks team lead, and leaders from other federal agencies, including the departments of Homeland Security, Health and Human Services, and Transportation. The webcast was part of ODEP's ePolicyWorks initiative, which leverages the latest technology to address barriers to employment for people with disabilities and fosters real-time collaboration around key policy issues.

View the archived webcast.

9/11 National Day of Service and Remembrance

Today is a day to reflect back on the horrific events of September 11, 2001, and the nearly 3,000 people who lost their lives in the terrorist attacks.  I am especially reminded of the brave police officers and firefighters who died in their efforts to save people.  I think about how proud I am of my nephew who is a fireman in Arizona and my brother-in-law, uncle, cousin and best friend who were police officers in California. I remember our service men and women and veterans who serve our country to keep us safe from the terrorists.   I also remember standing, overlooking ground zero in New York City a few years ago trying to imagine what it was like before.  We toured the area guided by a 9/11 survivor, who volunteers her time so that those who died are never forgotten.  I hope to return to New York City to see the new memorial and the new World Trade tower.  Please join me in remembering those that lost there lives in New York, Pennsylvania and at the Pentagon on that terrible day.

Assistance for Louisiana and Mississippi

Louisiana and Mississippi will receive assistance with cleanup and recovery efforts related to storm damage from Hurricane Isaac under two National Emergency Grants announced Sept. 6 by Secretary Solis. Louisiana's Workforce Commission was awarded $3,358,017 to fund temporary jobs for cleanup and recovery efforts across the state in the aftermath of Hurricane Isaac and a $3 million grant was awarded to the Mississippi Department of Employment Security for cleanup of the widespread damage across the state. Since cleanup work can involve safety and health hazards, the department's Occupational Safety and Health Administration also publicized safety precautions to protect workers and the public as they proceed with cleanup in their area.