Governor orders assistance for impacted KFC, Taco Bell workers

By THE STAR STAFF

Gov. Jenniffer González Colón announced on Tuesday that she has instructed the Department of Labor and Human Resources to assist employees affected by the situation involving KFC and Taco Bell franchises in Puerto Rico by providing guidance on available aid and opportunities for finding new employment.

“I think it has come as a surprise to all of us, hasn’t it? These restaurant chains have been part of Puerto Rico’s culture for so many years, right?” González Colón said in response to questions from the press. “What can I say? I believe they are part of who we are. It has taken us all by surprise.”

The governor said her administration is seeking to identify alternatives for workers facing job uncertainty due to the status of the franchises’ operations.

“We have instructed the Department of Labor to find ways to help these employees get back on track -- by connecting them with available federal assistance and helping many of them secure positions in other sectors,” she said.

La Fortaleza Public Affairs Secretary Jean Peña Payano had previously noted that financial difficulties regarding the franchise operations had been mentioned, along with potential discussions about other companies taking over their management, though he did not confirm any agreements.