Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is an auto community?
A: An auto community is a city, county, or region which has or had significant employment from auto manufacturer(s) or auto supplier(s). This includes communities which have recently lost a significant number of jobs due to a plant closure, line shutdown, or other cause.
Q: How does the Office of Recovery for Auto Communities and Workers help?
A: The Office of Recovery for Auto Communities and Workers helps auto communities identify federal resources which may be used as part of federal, state, and local efforts to recover from the affects of the auto industry downturn. When an automotive community asks for assistance with a particular issue or concern, the Office of Recovery for Auto Communities and Workers helps connect the community with the appropriate federal agency or agencies, and where resources are lacking, may make recommendations to the Obama administration about additional resources that could be valuable to these communities.
Q: I am a local or state official for a community which is not currently working with the Office of Recovery for Auto Communities and Workers. How can our community get help?
A: We would be happy to work with you. To begin working with us, please contact your state coordinator. If your state is not listed as having a designated state coordinator, you can contact us by emailing autorecovery@dol.gov, or by contacting any state coordinator.
Q: I am a local official from a community containing an Old GM property covered by the RACER Trust. Where can I find more information on the RACER Trust?
A: Information on the RACER Trust (formerly known as the GM Environmental Response Trust) can be found at www.racertrust.org. Additionally, information on the negotiation and creation of the Trust are available through the White House Fact Sheet and Press Release.
Q: My community has an auto manufacturer or auto supplier who has announced a closure or impending large-scale layoff which is months or years away. Is it too early to work with the Office of Recovery for Auto Communities and Workers?
A: No. While many government resources may not be available until later, it is not too early to begin working with the Office of Recovery for Auto Communities and Workers to determine resources which might help your community to prepare. We encourage communities to engage our office as early in the process as possible.
Q: I am an auto worker in need of resources related to human services such as child care, education/training, and similar methods of assistance for individuals and families. Is there a government website that can help?
A: Yes. You can visit www.benefits.gov. This website will allow you to take an online smart survey which will provide a list of possible resources based on your unique attributes.
