"The people of Dexter and the surrounding towns have a long history of producing high-quality footwear. And while I am disappointed this rich manufacturing tradition will come to an end, I am far more concerned about the fate of the 475 workers who will be out of work and struggling to support their families," said Senator Collins in a letter to Buffett. "The decision to end shoe production in Dexter and put 475 people out of work will be a terrible hardship for the workers, their families, and the entire region. It is imperative that Dexter shoe do all that it can to help both its workers and the community recover."
Senator Collins admonished Buffet to urge Dexter Shoe to continue to help its employees secure TAA, which is made available through the Trade Act of 1974 for individuals certified by the Federal Government as having lost their jobs due to the more competitive nature of goods produced outside the United States. The program provides resources for training and extended unemployment benefits.
In addition, Senator Collins urged Dexter Shoe to cooperate fully with the state of Maine''s plan to establish a transition center in the town of Dexter that will locate resources and employment counselors in the community to assist the laid off workers.