Economic development aid network being deployed

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The Missouri Department of Economic Development has activated a statewide network of more than 400 economic development groups to offer assistance to employers impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

"Employers that are considering full or partial shutdowns in connection with the virus have access to a number of state and federal programs that may be able to help," according to a Monday news release from DED.

"We want employers to know that there's someone they can call that will help navigate all the options available during these difficult times," DED director Rob Dixon said in the news release.

"From helping businesses retain employees and recover quickly through the Shared Work program, to assisting with UI tax extensions, our mission is to promote economic vitality for all Missouri businesses," said Anna Hui, director of the Missouri Department of Labor and Industrial Relations.

Mardy Leathers, director of the Office of Workforce Development, added the activation of the Employment Transition Team and Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification system will help employers and employees affected by layoffs.

A list of resources for impacted businesses and workers is available at ded.mo.gov/coronavirus.