"NASA's Jet Propulsion Lab to Cut 8% of Workforce Due to Budget Constraints"

Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena is set to lay off about 530 employees and eliminate 40 contractors due to budget constraints, drawing criticism from California Congressional representatives. The layoffs, representing about 8% of the lab's total staffing, come amid uncertainty about funding for the Mars Sample Return mission. JPL Director Laurie Leshin described the cuts as necessary but challenging, and affected employees will receive salary for 60 days and severance packages. Congressional representatives from both parties have expressed disappointment and are working to reverse the funding cuts, urging the White House to adjust the budget to support the Mars Sample Return program.