Feds Ease Blow Of Flooded Jobs

The U.S. Department of Labor said Monday it will provide up to $3 million to help about 390 Idaho workers left jobless by this month’s flooding.

Secretary of Labor Robert Reich said $1 million will be made available immediately.

Vice President Al Gore has promised $10 million in Federal Highway Administration grants to rebuild roads and bridges.

The Idaho Transportation Department has estimated highway damage from flooding and slides could reach $42 million, with $5 million in matching funds needed from state and local governments.

The Department of Labor said those eligible for job help will be provided work and appropriate support services for up to six months with public or private non-profit agencies to help with cleanup, repair and restoration. The work will be run by the Idaho Department of Employment.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency said 707 flood victims have registered for disaster assistance. Nearly $284,000 in temporary housing assistance has been approved for 158 disaster victims, and 220 applications have been received for an individual and family grant program.

The Internal Revenue Service said it will offer taxpayer assistance to anyone affected by the floods. Under a special law, taxpayers who suffered a casualty loss can choose to deduct that loss for the tax year immediately before the disaster, 1996 in this case.