Today, Representative Rick Larsen released the following statement on the closing of the Job Corps program: 

“As a part of the Trump administration’s efforts to give a tax break to the richest Americans and wealthiest corporations, Secretary of Labor Lori Chavez-DeRemer has closed the Job Corps program.  

“This terrible decision directly harms Northwest Washington. In its 40 year history, Cascade Job Corps has helped more than 10,000 low-income young people complete college credits and professional certifications. Today, the program serves 250 young people and employs 119 staff members. It also supports administrative capacity and career training services at the Everett WorkSource Center.  

“When Cascade Job Corps shuts down at the end of the month, many of those 250 young people will lose access to housing and health care, and all of them will lose access to the education they were pursuing. All staff members will lose their jobs as well.  

“In the past week, my office has received 90 messages from Cascade Job Corps students, alumni, and staff, and other community leaders who see the vital services the program provides. I hear you, and I share your anger.  

“One year ago, my former House of Representatives colleague Lori Chavez-DeRemer signed onto a letter supporting funding for the Job Corps program. Today, as the Secretary of Labor, she has closed the program. 

“I urge Secretary Chavez-DeRemer to reverse this decision, and to meet with me and other members who represent communities that have seen the success of the Job Corps program. I agree with the letter the Secretary signed onto last year: ‘Your support will allow Job Corps to continue its track record of providing effective career and technical education to many of the most vulnerable young Americans in our communities.’”