On May 29, U.S. Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) issued a statement condemning the U.S. Department of Labor’s decision to implement a phased “pause” in operations at contractor-operated Job Corps Centers, including the center located in Laredo.

“The Department of Labor’s decision to shutter contractor-operated Job Corps Centers – including ours in Laredo – is disappointing and was made without consultation from Congress,” said Cuellar. “Sending students home in the middle of their training is not only disruptive, but it’s wrong.”

Cuellar emphasized that the decision bypasses congressional oversight. “Let me be clear: this is not a decision for the Department to make on its own. Congress created Job Corps, and Congress must be involved in determining its future.”

The Laredo Job Corps Center currently serves approximately 220 students and employs nearly 200 staff members. The center provides job training and educational services in areas such as culinary arts, welding, facility maintenance, certified nurse assistant, security and protective services, and advanced career training. Students may also earn a high school diploma or equivalent, receive English language instruction, and participate in off-site internships—40 of whom are currently placed.

The Department of Labor’s decision is expected to significantly impact students, staff, and families across South Texas.