DC May Cut Youth Summer Jobs to 6 Weeks

The Washington, DC City Council will debate a proposal to cut a summer youth jobs program from nine to six weeks.

Last year, Mayor Adrian M. Fenty extended the six week program to nine weeks, and directed the city to provide employment for any person aged 14 to 21 who wanted one. Critics say the city has been unable to track who really earned a paycheck and who did not, and alleges spending on the program is out of control.

Over 21,000 youths benefited from the program in 2008. But auditors say the city issued paychecks to thousands who were ineligible, did not show up for work, or were not city residents.

Last year’s program cost $55 million.