Franklin International Paper Mill Closure

Franklin International Paper - Information and Resources

The closure of the Franklin International Paper Mill is devastating news for hundreds of families and for a community which has relied upon the jobs at this facility for more than 120 years. We have spoken with company and city officials, and we are working with the U.S. Department of Labor and other federal, state and nonprofit organizations to provide immediate support and assistance to these 1,100 families.

Over the longer-term, it also is important that we market the quality workforce in this strong and resilient community to other potential employers. We also will be working with our federal, state and local partners to make sure these displaced workers have access to retraining and other job services they’ll need to be competitive as our economy recovers.

On this page, you can find links to helpful resources, and information on our progress at the federal level.  As always, please don't hesitate to call our local office in Richmond -- at 804-775-2314 -- if you have any questions or need additional assistance.  

Services For You

Our offices around the state are available to help you with locate and apply for help from federal and state agencies.  Visit our Constituent Services page for more info.

Our Action Items

Senator Warner is working to provide the City of Franklin and surrounding areas the resources from the federal government they need.  Here is what our office has done so far, and what we are working on:

  • Visit with community leaders and employees in Franklin - On October 26, 2009, Senator Warner met with community leaders and employees to discuss what they need from him in the weeks ahead.  To read more about his visit, click here.

    • On January 13, 2010, Senator Warner met with officials at the International Paper transition facility to discuss ways to streamline the transition process for employees.  Click here to learn more about his visit.
  • Letter to CEO of International Paper - On October 28, 2009, Senator Warner sent a letter to the CEO of International Paper asking the Board of Directors to explore the company's willingness to reconsider the timeline for the eventual shutdown and potential future uses of the facility and site.  To read more about his letter, click here. 
  • Trade Adjustment Assistance Benefits and National Emergency Grant - Senator Warner is working on an application to the U.S. Department of Labor for emergency aid and assistance from the federal government.  The Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) program helps workers who have lost their jobs as a result of foreign trade. The TAA program offers a variety of benefits and services to eligible workers, including job training, income support, job search and relocation allowances, a tax credit to help pay the costs of health insurance, and a wage supplement to certain reemployed trade-affected workers 50 years of age and older. 

    • On December 23, 2009, the U.S. Department of Labor approved TAA for the Franklin Paper Mill employees.  Click here for more information.  This follows a November 25 announcement that 120 former employees of the lumber mill, which closed in the summer, would receive TAA benefits.
  • Coordination with state rapid response task force - Senator Warner is working with state and local officials to coordinate action and communications at different levels of government.  

Links to Resources

Below is a list of helpful resources:  

Health Care Resources

  • Continuation of Health Coverage (COBRA)
    • COBRA provides coverage for workers and their families who lose their health benefits by giving them the right to choose to continue group health benefits provided by their group health plan at least 18 months in certain circumstances. Since your employer is not required to pay a portion of your premium, you may pay the entire amount, but the cost is usually less than if you obtained coverage on your own.

    • Click here for a guide to COBRA benefits and consumer rights while you receiving COBRA continuation coverage.
  • Virginia Medical Assistance Programs
    Virginia Department of Social Services
    • Learn more about eligibility requirements for Virginia’s two medical assistance programs: the Medicaid Program and the Family Access to Medical Insurance Security Plan (FAMIS).
  • Virginia Community Health Centers
    • Community Health Centers can provide health care, prescription medications and wellness outreach to Virginians for those who are uninsured or can not afford health insurance.
  • Information on the Health Coverage Tax Credit
    • You may be eligible for a a federal tax credit that enables eligible individuals to pay only 20 percent of qualified health insurance premiums for themselves and their family members.

Retirement Resources

Education and Training Resources

  • Worker Re-employment
    US Department of Labor
    • Review options for training and education including classes, short-term training, beginning or finishing a degree, and pay for training programs.
  • VWC Education Services
    Virginia Workforce Connection
    • Learn about education services available in Virginia such as training providers and schools, education program completers, financial aid for training, and online learning resources.

Housing Resources

  • Avoiding Foreclosure
    US Department of Housing and Urban Development
    • Find important tips on how to avoid foreclosure on your home.
Employment Resources for Veterans