Missouri Department of Labor and Industrial Relations News Release

Bob Holden
Governor

Catherine B. Leapheart
Director

Tammy Cavender
Public Information Coordinator

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:  Tammy Cavender  (573) 751-7500
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  May 7, 2003

DISASTER UNEMPLOYMENT ASSISTANCE AVAILABLE IN 39 MISSOURI COUNTIES

Jefferson City, MO -- The Missouri Department of Labor and Industrial Relations today announces that individuals working in the listed 39 counties who are unemployed due to the recent severe spring storms and tornadoes may be eligible for disaster unemployment assistance.

These counties are:  Barry, Barton, Bates, Benton, Buchanan, Camden, Cass, Cedar, Christian, Clay, Clinton, Cooper, Dade, Dallas, Douglas, Greene, Henry, Hickory, Jackson, Jasper, Johnson, Laclede, Lafayette, Lawrence, McDonald, Miller, Morgan, Newton, Pettis, Platte, Polk, Pulaski, Ray, Saline, St. Clair, Stone, Taney, Vernon and Webster counties.

Disaster unemployment assistance is intended for individuals who are not eligible for benefits under a state’s regular unemployment insurance program.  Farmers or other self-employed individuals and individuals who are denied regular unemployment insurance benefits may now be eligible for disaster unemployment assistance.

Individuals who need information about how to file a claim should call (800) 788-4002.   Claims should be filed as soon as possible, but no later than June 6, 2003.

Thursday, May 8, 2003 is a state holiday.  All state offices will be closed.