The US department of labor yesterday in a live web chats in Houston discusses the department 2012 budget request. The occasion saw in attendance the secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis, Seth Harris, Deputy Secretary and other members of staff, with more than 3,200 people participating in the web chat. Houston workplace examiner also participated and brings highlights of the budget request.

The department's budget request totals $12.8 billion in discretionary funding. The budget aims to help Americans find and keep jobs through programs that provide training and employment opportunities for unemployed adults, dislocated workers and vulnerable communities. The budget also preserves support for employment and training programs that target Native American communities and migrant and seasonal farm workers, as well as Youth Build and Job Corps, which serve disadvantaged youth. The department will continue to support veterans by investing an additional $2 million in the Transition Assistance Program and an additional $3 million in the Homeless Veterans Reintegration Program.  Speaking on this occasion, the secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis said, “Our budget request reflects our commitment to help America 'win the future' by sustaining a competitive workforce and ensuring worker protections. Our fiscal year 2012 request reflects what it will take to keep America's workforce strong and innovative. It also makes responsible and reasonable cuts that are rooted in current economic realities and a continued focus on increased efficiency and effectiveness”.  (click on link to read full story)