Tyson Foods closure: State lawmakers weigh in on the job losses in Jefferson

JEFFERSON -- Democrats and Republicans are reacting to news that Tyson Foods plans to close its plant in Jefferson. The move affects about 400 workers.

News that Tyson planned to shutter its pepperoni plant caught people who live in Jefferson by surprise.

"It's significant. There is absolutely no doubt about it; it will be felt for some time to come," said St. Senator Stephen Nass (R).

The plant is in Sen. Nass' district. Nass said right now, he is focused on making sure the affected workers get the help they need to transition to their next job.

"Make sure that they get the information they need whether it's retraining or looking for employment elsewhere. That's certainly got to be a priority," said Nass.

Tyson officials said they are making the move in order to better serve customers "by shifting production and equipment to more modern and efficient locations."

Some state officials say it is indicative of Wisconsin's current path.

"That puts a lot of folks on edge considering the Oscar Meyer layoffs, considering what's happened with Johnson Controls, and what's happening elsewhere with layoffs. So it's pretty concerning where Wisconsin's economy is heading right now," said St. Senator Chris Larson (D).

Larson said he would like to see an extraordinary session called to address the issue.

"And say what other businesses are we at risk of losing and what can we do in a bipartisan way to make sure that that's not happening," said Larson.

Republicans point to recent data and say the state is seeing job growth.

Sen. Nass said he would like the parties to work together to continue doing more.

"That doesn't mean a lot to those who are working at Tyson presently that are going to be laid off but nevertheless there has been a net gain," said Nass.

A spokesman for the WEDC told FOX6 News in an email that the agency contacted Tyson Foods Thursday when learning of its plans to close the Jefferson plant. He said the WEDC has expressed an interest in working with Tyson to maintain their operations in Wisconsin, if possible.