Program Overview
The purpose of the Rapid Response system is to promote economic recovery and vitality by developing an ongoing, comprehensive approach to identify, plan for, and respond to layoffs and dislocations, and to prevent or minimize their impacts on workers, businesses, and communities.
Implementation of Rapid Response services are in partnership with local American Job Centers. The Rapid Response team responds to notifications of layoffs and plant closings by quickly coordinating services and providing assistance to companies and their affected workers. Rapid Response can provide customized on-site services, accommodate work schedules, and assist companies and workers with transitions associated with job loss. In addition, the team works with employers and employee representatives to effectively maximize public-private partnerships and resources while reducing disruptions linked to job loss.
The Department of Employment Services has no administrative or enforcement authority under the Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) Act and therefore does not provide legal advice or interpretations related to specific provisions of the WARN Act as they may apply to a specific dislocation event. Questions related to employer/employee relationships (including oral or written employment contracts or agreements), and/or interpretation of provisions of the WARN Act as they may apply to circumstances relating to specific layoff actions should be addressed by legal professionals. All requirements for notices required under the WARN Act are available in the Employers Guide to Advance Notice of Closings and Layoffs.
Currently, the District of Columbia does not have local WARN Act requirements and applies the federal model.
The District of Columbia's Dislocated Worker Program, which includes the Rapid Response program, is funded by a $12,090,836 grant from the U.S. Department of Labor Employment and Training Administration.
Length of Program: Year-Round
How to Submit Layoff, Reduction in Force, or WARNs to the District of Columbia
Industry Closings and Layoffs - Warn Notices