Based on recent information, here’s an overview of the status of Job Corps under the Trump administration:

• Proposed Elimination: The Trump administration proposed eliminating the Job Corps program in its budget proposal, citing concerns about its cost-effectiveness, low graduation rate, and lack of success in placing participants in stable jobs.
• Safety and Program Outcomes: The Department of Labor stated concerns regarding the safety of participants and program outcomes, noting reported incidents of violence, drug use, and security breaches at Job Corps centers.
• Contractor-Operated Center Closure: The Trump administration ordered the cessation of operations at 99 contractor-operated Job Corps centers, affecting approximately 25,000 low-income adults.
• Lawsuit Filed: A lawsuit was filed by the National Job Corps Association and other plaintiffs to block the program’s closure, arguing that the Department of Labor lacks the authority to dismantle a program established and funded by Congress.
• Advocates’ Concerns: Advocates and Job Corps graduates have expressed concerns about the impact of the program’s elimination, with some calling it disastrous and worrying about the future of young people who rely on Job Corps for training and life skills. 

News Release

US DEPARTMENT OF LABOR PAUSES JOB CORPS CENTER OPERATIONS

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor today announced it will begin a phased pause in operations at contractor-operated Job Corps centers nationwide, initiating an orderly transition for students, staff, and local communities. The decision follows an internal review of the program’s outcome and structure and will be carried out in accordance with available funding, the statutory framework established under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, and congressional notification requirements.  

The pause of operations at all contractor-operated Job Corps centers will occur by June 30, 2025. As the transition begins, the department is collaborating with state and local workforce partners to assist current students in advancing their training and connecting them with education and employment opportunities. 

The department’s decision aligns with the President’s FY 2026 budget proposal and reflects the Administration’s commitment to ensure federal workforce investments deliver meaningful results for both students and taxpayers.

 “Job Corps was created to help young adults build a pathway to a better life through education, training, and community,” said Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer. “However, a startling number of serious incident reports and our in-depth fiscal analysis reveal the program is no longer achieving the intended outcomes that students deserve. We remain committed to ensuring all participants are supported through this transition and connected with the resources they need to succeed as we evaluate the program’s possibilities.” 

The Job Corps program has faced significant financial challenges under its current operating structure. In PY 2024, the program operated at a $140 million deficit, requiring the Biden administration to implement a pause in center operations to complete the program year. The deficit is projected to reach $213 million in PY 2025.   

On April 25, 2025, the department’s Employment and Training Administration released the first-ever Job Corps Transparency Report, which analyzed the financial performance and operational costs of the most recently available metrics of program year 2023. A summary of the overall findings: 

• Average Graduation Rate (WIOA Definition): 38.6%
• Average Cost Per Student Per Year: $80,284.65         
• Average Total Cost Per Graduate (WIOA Definition): $155,600.74
• Post separation, participants earn $16,695 annually on average. 
• The total number of Serious Incident Reports for program year 2023: 14,913 infractions.
  • Inappropriate Sexual Behavior and Sexual Assaults Reported: 372 
  • Acts of Violence Reported: 1,764
  • Breaches of Safety or Security: 1,167
  • Reported Drug Use: 2,702
  • Total Hospital Visits: 1,808

Additional information can be found in the FAQs.

Agency

Office of the Secretary

Date

May 29, 2025

Release Number

25-929-NAT

Media Contact: Courtney Parella

Phone Number

(202) 693-3670

Email

parella.courtney.e@dol.gov