Gov. Bev Perdue signed Executive Order No. 31 to extend immediate eligibility for unemployment benefits to laid-off ConAgra Foods employees. State law permits the Governor to waive the “waiting week” for unemployment benefits for the victims of a major industrial disaster.

“Already in the midst of tough economic times, the ConAgra disaster was a major blow to hundreds of North Carolina families,” said Perdue. “Speeding up unemployment benefits will help these families get back on their feet faster.”

On June 9, 2009 an explosion occurred at ConAgra’s Slim Jim plant in Garner. The explosion has claimed the lives of four workers and injured dozens more. ConAgra has resumed limited production at the facility—well below its capacity. ConAgra ended compensation for some of its employees last week.

Executive Order No. 31 directs the Employment Security Commission to waive the “waiting week,” as provided in N.C. Gen. Stat. §96-13(c1), for the receipt of unemployment insurance benefits for employees affected by the ConAgra Foods industrial disaster. The order will remain in effect for one year.