Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) Act

Program Information

The Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) Act provides protection to workers, their families and communities by requiring employers to provide notification 60 calendar days in advance of covered plant closings and mass layoffs.  Advance notice provides workers and their families some transition time to adjust to the prospective loss of employment, to seek and obtain alternative jobs and, if necessary, to enter skill training or retraining that will allow these workers to successfully compete in the job market. 

Employers* must provide notice to the:

• Affected workers or their representatives (e.g., a labor union)
• State Rapid Response Coordinator
• Chief elected official of the unit of local government in which the employment site is located

Employers are encouraged to submit notices to the State Rapid Response Coordinator via e-mail at WARNnotices@commerce.fl.gov so Rapid Response services may be promptly provided. Florida’s Local Workforce Development Boards are responsible for direct services to employers and workers who are affected by layoffs and business closings.

*Note:  The WARN Act provides a specific definition for the term “employer” as not all plant closings and layoffs are subject to the WARN Act provisions.  Additionally, certain thresholds must be reached before the WARN Act applies.

Program Resources

State Resources

• WARN Notices Procedure and Instructions
• View WARN Notices

Federal Resources

• WARN Advisor (helps employers and workers understand WARN requirements)
• Employer’s Guide to Advance Notice of Closings and Layoffs
• Worker’s Guide to Advance Notice of Closings and Layoffs