§ 2297. Job search allowances

• (a)
  • (1) An adversely affected worker covered by a certification issued under subpart A of this part may file an application with the Secretary for payment of a job search allowance.
  • (2) The Secretary may grant an allowance pursuant to an application filed under paragraph (1) when all of the following apply:
    • (A) The allowance is paid to assist an adversely affected worker who has been totally separated in securing a job within the United States.
    • (B) The Secretary determines that the worker cannot reasonably be expected to secure suitable employment in the commuting area in which the worker resides.
    • (C) The worker has filed an application for the allowance with the Secretary before—
      • (i) the later of—
        • (I) the 365th day after the date of the certification under which the worker is certified as eligible; or
        • (II) the 365th day after the date of the worker’s last total separation; or
      • (ii) the date that is the 182d day after the date on which the worker concluded training, unless the worker received a waiver under section 2291(c) of this title .
• (b)
  • (1) An allowance granted under subsection (a) shall provide reimbursement to the worker of 90 percent of the cost of necessary job search expenses as prescribed by the Secretary in regulations.
  • (2) Reimbursement under this subsection may not exceed $1,250 for any worker.
  • (3) Reimbursement under this subsection may not be made for subsistence and transportation expenses at levels exceeding those allowable under section 2296(b)(1) and (2) of this title.
• (c) Notwithstanding subsection (b), the Secretary shall reimburse any adversely affected worker for necessary expenses incurred by the worker in participating in a job search program approved by the Secretary.