Working odd jobs in the Valley after moving from California wasn’t enough for Daniel Mejia.

He survived COVID-19 and, after being hospitalized several times last year, has made a career change to become a truck driver.

Mejia stopped receiving unemployment benefits months ago.

More than 500,000 unemployed Texans already receiving unemployment checks will no longer see an additional $300 of pandemic related unemployment money starting on Saturday, June 26, after Gov. Greg Abbott opted out of the additional money

"But TWC will continue to pay you regular benefits after that date as long as you remain eligible and you have not exhausted your state benefits,” Texas Workforce Commission spokesperson Francisco Gamez said.

Business owner have said the extra money has made it harder to find workers. Experts say some people want long-term careers with higher pay.

Mejia says he feels optimistic on his new path.

“Once you get a good job, hold on to it,” Mejia said.