Statement from Maryland Labor Secretary on Sparrows Point

BALTIMORE, MD (December 28, 2011) - The Maryland Department of Labor (DLLR) has learned that RG Steel will temporarily lay off workers. The company has told union leaders that work would restart during the first quarter of 2012.

Maryland Labor Secretary Alexander M. Sanchez released this statement today:

"There is never a good time to hear that you've been laid off or furloughed, but it's more difficult during the holidays. It is disappointing that many of the men and women who count on a family wage from a job at Sparrows Point will begin 2012 without a regular paycheck. We are hopeful that every steelworker and RG Steel employee at Sparrows Point will return to work quickly and with the comfort that their job will be secure."

"The Division of Unemployment Insurance (DUI) has dedicated staff to accept claims from RG Steel employees. Officials from DUI and the Division of Labor and Industry have engaged labor leaders to reach as many employees as possible. DLLR will continue to monitor the situation at Sparrows Point and will work with all parties, including our partners across state and local government, to help as many of our neighbors as possible return to work as early as possible in 2012."

Dislocated workers may be eligible for unemployment insurance benefits. For more information, visit DLLR.

The Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation protects and empowers Marylanders by safeguarding workers, protecting consumers, providing a safety net and cultivating a thriving workforce that can meet the demands of Maryland’s dynamic economy. Follow DLLR on Twitter (@MD_DLLR) and Facebook.

Updated December 28, 2011