General Dynamics Information Technology will remain open in Bogalusa.

The call center was set to close April 25, but those plans changed after a decision by the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services.

“This is great news, and it could not come at a better time for our city,” said Bogalusa Mayor Charles Mizell. “GDIT is the largest employer in Bogalusa, and the jobs are very important to our people and to the health of our economy.”

Sen. Mary Landrieu, Sen. David Vitter and Rep. Vance McAllister all spoke with General Dynamics officials, urging them to remain open in Bogalusa.

“Keeping this call center open is a big deal for Bogalusa and the surrounding area,” said state Sen. Ben Nevers. “The 600 jobs created by GDIT are a boost to our local economy, and I appreciate the work Sen. Landrieu and other officials did to make this happen.”

Across the country, there are 17 call centers that employ 10,000 trained representatives to assist consumers in purchasing health insurance through the Affordable Care Act marketplaces. These call centers are open 24 hours a day. The call center in Bogalusa employs more than 600 people.