Altoona, PA – Congressman John Joyce (PA-13), joined by State Senator Judy Ward (SD-30), State Representative Jim Gregory (HD-80), and State Representative Lou Schmitt (HD-79), released the following statements on Norfolk Southern’s announced layoffs in Altoona:
“It is deeply disappointing that Norfolk Southern has chosen to reduce its workforce in central Pennsylvania – especially as this announcement comes just one day after our nation paused to celebrate the value of American workers,” said Congressman Joyce. “In Congress, I am fighting to pass pro-growth, pro-worker legislation to support these hardworking Americans, and I am committed to helping families affected by this news to move forward in our region.”
“My heart goes out to these individuals who will be negatively impacted by these layoffs,” said State Senator Judy Ward. “We need to make sure that everything that can be done is done to provide the needed support for these workers and their families.”
“I join my fellow legislators in offering my support to those in the 80th District who face these job losses,” said State Representative Jim Gregory. “We will work together to bring more jobs to Blair County. We also need to encourage our business leaders to work with us to develop new ways of dealing with the changing landscape of rail service jobs in Blair and Pennsylvania.”
“My thoughts are with these hard-working railroaders and their families in this time of great difficulty for them,” said State Representative Lou Schmitt. “It is my understanding that these displaced railroaders will have the opportunity to apply for jobs within the Norfolk Southern system. My office stands ready to help facilitate assistance through the relevant state governmental agencies.”
To learn more about federal resources available, Norfolk Southern employees can contact Rep. Joyce’s office at (717) 753-6344.
Contact: Brandon Ferrance
(570) 991-74888