Iowa's Rapid Response Services

Rapid Response Services

When workers are laid off due to a business closing or mass layoff, a specific process referred to as Rapid Response is used to quickly coordinate services for companies and the affected workers. 

We encourage businesses to contact us right away, even if layoffs are not scheduled to occur for a number of months or are temporary. 

How it Works

Following notification and confirmation of a layoff, the Rapid Response Team will work with the business and union officials (if applicable) to determine the best course of action. To best assist, the Rapid Response Team will need to gather information on: 

• the anticipated layoff schedule, 
• the employer's needs and expectations, 
• the employee's needs and expectations, 
• available resources,
• time and resource constraints,
• community factors, and 
• workforce demographic, education, skills and needs. 

Services Available for Impacted Workers

Rapid Response Teams will also work with the business and union officials (if applicable) to review types of services available to affected workers. These services will be gone over with the affected workers during Worker Information Meetings which include: 

• Overview of IowaWORKS Center benefits, such as: 
  • Career guidance and access to current job openings 
  • Resume and interviewing assistance
  • Labor Market Information (occupational information and economic trends) 
  • Job search and placement assistance 
  • Funding for education and training opportunities
  • On-the-Job Training
  • Supportive services
  • Workshops
• Overview of unemployment insurance benefits and how to file
• Overview of alternative pension & insurance program options
• Options for Veterans 
• Organizing of targeted hiring events/job fairs 

IowaWORKS Mobile Workforce Center

Iowa Workforce Development has also deployed its IowaWORKS Mobile Workforce Center, to better support impacted workers from layoff events. The mobile workforce center will be deployed for rapid response services as well. Visit this page for more information.

Other state agencies or community-based organizations can be invited to participate in the Worker Information Meeting as deemed appropriate. These services are fully funded by the Department of Labor through the State of Iowa under the Dislocated Worker Program. A petition may need to be filed under Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) for job losses attributed to foreign competition.

How to Get Started and Contact Information

For questions and issuances of WARN notifications, please contact the State Rapid Response Coordinator.