Bill > HB3260

This bill modifies the Texas Industry-Recognized Apprenticeship Programs Grant Program by shifting authorization for defining and certifying apprenticeship programs from the federal Department of Labor to the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC). The bill requires the TWC to establish rules for defining apprenticeable occupations, which must involve structured on-the-job training, be clearly identified in an industry, require significant work experience, and include related instruction. The TWC must also create a process for certifying training programs as industry-recognized apprenticeship programs, develop performance metrics like completion and retention rates, establish reporting timelines, and annually publish aggregated performance data. Additionally, the bill allows the TWC to distribute grant payments in partial reimbursements as program participants meet on-the-job training and employment milestones. The new certification criteria must generally align with federal apprenticeship standards, and the changes will only apply to grants awarded on or after the effective date of September 1, 2025. This legislation aims to give the Texas Workforce Commission more direct control and oversight of apprenticeship programs within the state.

Business and Industry, Labor and Employment

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB3260