LANCASTER - Two companies have notified state officials that they intend to close their central Pennsylvania plants, laying off a total of 280 workers in early September.

Lancaster-based Lancaster Preferred Partners said in a filing with the Department of Labor and Industry that it will close its plant and begin terminating 211 employees on Sept. 7.

Reading Truck Body LLC said in its filing that it plans to close its Denver plant the following day, affecting 69 workers.

The two notices came under a federal law requiring employers to give at least 60 days notice of a business closing or mass layoff.

The (Lancaster) Intelligencer Journal/Lancaster New Era says Lancaster Preferred Partners assembles axles and chassis for heavy trucks..

Reading Truck Body makes bodies and equipment for utility trucks and vans.