Governor signs bill to help unemployed

Friday, May 18, 2012, Vol. 36, No. 20

NASHVILLE (AP) — Gov. Bill Haslam has signed a proposal to help Tennesseans get off unemployment and find a job.

The legislation, called the "Tennessee Works Act," unanimously passed the Senate 33-0 and 91-0 in the House.

The bill creates a pilot program to provide employers with grants to pay for training expenses for recently laid-off workers or workers whose jobs have gone overseas. In order to continue receiving the grant funds, employers agree to hire a portion of the employees trained.

The sponsor of the legislation, Democratic Sen. Andy Berke of Chattanooga, has said it's proof that Republicans and Democrats can work together to make Tennessee a better place.