California Attorney General Rob Bonta, along with 18 other attorneys general, has filed an amicus brief supporting Job Corps. This national program provides career training and housing to young Americans from low-income backgrounds. The Trump Administration’s decision to terminate the program is seen as a threat that could leave many vulnerable youths without homes.
“Job Corps has opened doors for low-income youth, offering job training, education, and a pathway to economic stability,” stated Attorney General Bonta. “The Trump Administration’s attempt to gut this critical program jeopardizes thousands of young people nationwide who rely on it. Not only is dismantling Job Corps unlawful, but it will hinder economic growth by dismantling a strong pipeline of skilled workers.”
The brief highlights that since its inception sixty years ago by Congress, Job Corps has served millions of young Americans through its unique combination of education, training, housing, healthcare, and community support. The termination threatens tens of thousands currently enrolled in all fifty states. Many participants were unhoused or in foster care before joining and have no alternative housing if the program ends.
The filing emphasizes the necessity of an injunction to protect vulnerable residents and promote state goals in education and workforce development. It argues that the Trump Administration cannot lawfully terminate congressionally mandated programs based on opposition.
Attorney General Bonta is joined by attorneys general from Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Rhode Island, Oregon and Vermont in this legal action.
A copy of the amicus brief is available here.
