LEWISTON – The U.S. Department of Labor Thursday approved Trade Adjustment Assistance for 21 former workers of Bell Manufacturing Co., who were determined to be displaced by increased imports and foreign competition.

The announcement was made by Maine U.S. Rep. Mike Michaud.

“I’m glad that the U.S. Department of Labor recognized the importance of covering these workers under TAA,” Michaud said. “Having yet another certification for TAA reminds us that unfair trade practices continue to hurt our economy. Our state has lost 23 percent of its manufacturing base since the enactment of NAFTA. Our trade policies are simply not working, and we need to finally do something about it.”

The TAA Program was established to provide aid to workers who lose their jobs or whose hours of work and wages are reduced as a result of increased imports. The program offers a variety of benefits and re-employment services to help unemployed workers prepare for and obtain suitable employment. Workers may be eligible for training, job search and relocation allowances, income support and other re-employment services.