WASHINGTON –U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (D-Conn.), and Congressman John Larson (D-Conn.) today hailed the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL)’s decision to end the Job Corps enrollment freeze. The three have worked for this decision for months, most recently sending a letter to DOL imploring them to use their authority to transfer addition funds to the Job Corps program and take other steps to end the freeze.

“This is a big win for the students, families, and communities in Connecticut and across the country who rely on the Job Corps program,” said Murphy.“Job Corps centers are critical in this tough economy, helping young people secure employment by providing them with the tools they need to succeed. The Job Corps enrollment freeze has hurt some of the most vulnerable kids in Connecticut. As a member of the committee that oversees Job Corps, I've been pushing for months to end this damaging enrollment freeze, and I’m proud that our work has made a difference and that Job Corps enrollment can resume.”

“More young people will once again be able to take advantage of the great services at the New Haven Job Corps center, as it will be able to help 157 students thank to the end of this misguided freeze,” said DeLauro. “The freeze not only prevented the centers from providing additional young people with vital job training opportunities they need, but it also had a direct impact on the livelihoods of current students and the dedicated staff. I was proud to secure extra funding for the program so the great centers in New Haven and Hartford can support more students this year. I will continue to fight to ensure they can increase the number of students served.”

“Today’s announcement is welcome news for the hundreds of youth who will benefit from our Job Corps Centers,” said Larson. “The Hartford Job Corps Academy has for years shown the value in the training they provide, and now can continue strengthening our communities by helping youth gain meaningful employment.”

Started in 1964, Job Corps is an education and training program that helps young people learn a career, earn a high school diploma or GED, and find and keep a good job. For eligible young people at least 16 years of age that qualify as low income, Job Corps provides the all-around skills needed to succeed in a career and in life.