Press Release Archive
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
State Urges Compassion and Flexibility When Dealing with Flood Effected Employees
Governor praises generous spirit of Iowa businesses
DES MOINES – Governor Culver, the Iowa Association of Business and Industry, and Iowa Workforce Development urge Iowa businesses to provide employees with the flexibility needed to deal with problems generated from Iowa’s recent natural disasters.
“It’s real Iowa value for neighbors to help each other out in their time of need,” indicated Governor Culver. “Understanding and flexibility will be cornerstones of our rebuilding efforts– and employers have an important role to play in making that happen. I’ve already been impressed by numerous Iowa businesses that are going above and beyond to help their employees get through this trying time, and I’m confident we’ll continue to see more examples of that Iowa spirit.”
As Iowa’s patience is tested over the next few weeks, it’s important for businesses and Iowans alike to work together. ABI President, Michael Ralston echoed the sentiment. “ABI member companies all across Iowa have been providing flexibility and assistance to employees ever since the flooding began and we strongly urge other Iowa businesses to provide their employees with the necessary personal time needed to deal with their situations. Iowa’s recovery efforts and overall economy will benefit most from this proactive approach.”
The Iowa Governor’s Office has instituted www.flood2008.iowa.gov as a way for the public to easily access disaster related information. OSHA provides a number of fact sheets on health and safety topics, including demolition and construction at www.osha.gov/OshDoc/quickcards.html. Iowans needing to file an Unemployment Insurance or Disaster Unemployment Assistance claim can do so at www.iowaworkforce.org, or in person at a Workforce Development Center.
“Iowans who have permanently or temporarily lost their jobs to the recent events, are urged to file claims as soon as possible”, stated Iowa Workforce Development Director Elisabeth Buck. Disaster Unemployment Assistance is a unique benefit as self-employed individuals, including farmers and day care providers, who lost or suffered a substantial reduction or interruption of self-employment activities as a direct result of a major disaster, may be eligible for benefits. However, suffering a monetary loss due to damage of property or crops does not automatically entitle an individual to Disaster Unemployment Assistance.