Bill > HB4479

This bill establishes the Rural Workforce Development Grant Program, administered by the Texas Workforce Commission in collaboration with the Texas Education Agency and the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, to provide grants to nonprofit organizations that help rural educational institutions address workforce skills gaps. The program allows the commission to award grants to eligible nonprofit organizations that demonstrate experience in providing technical assistance to institutions of higher education or school districts in rural areas, with the goal of aligning workforce training and education programs to meet urgent local workforce demands. Grant recipients must enter into a contract with the commission that ensures public purpose and state benefit, and can use grant funds only for technical assistance and support in developing workforce training programs. The commission is required to adopt rules for program administration, periodically verify appropriate use of grant money, and submit an annual report to state leadership detailing grants awarded and the program's effectiveness. The program can be funded through appropriations and can also accept gifts, grants, and donations from public or private sources. The bill will take effect on September 1, 2025, with the commission expected to adopt implementation rules as soon as practicable after that date.

Labor and Employment

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB4479