"There is a great need to attract new business and expand existing businesses to replace the enormous number of jobs being lost," said Senator Collins in a letter to the head of the EDA, David Sampson. "Dexter Shoe has provided jobs for hundreds of local people for generations, supported local businesses, and has contributed substantially to the town''s tax base. The jobs will be sorely missed, and the ancillary effect on other businesses in town and in the surrounding region will be significant."
The mission of the EDA is "to create a climate conducive to the development of private enterprise in America''s distressed communities." The EDA was established in 1965 to generate jobs, help retain existing jobs, and stimulate industrial and commercial growth in economically-distressed areas of the United States. EDA assistance is available to rural and urban areas of the nation experiencing high unemployment, low income, or other severe economic distress.
Senator Collins also has lobbied Secretary of Labor Elaine Chao to extend certification of Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) for Dexter Shoe workers and to help the state of Maine establish a transition center in the town of Dexter. TAA 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.
Additionally, Senator Collins has encouraged Warren Buffett, CEO of Berkshire Hathaway, Dexter Shoe''s parent company, to direct Dexter Shoe to cooperate fully with federal and state efforts to assist the 475 laid-off workers.