The bill amends the Education Code to expand the participation of certain juvenile justice entities in the Jobs and Education for Texans (JET) Grant Program. Specifically, it adds the Texas Juvenile Justice Department, juvenile boards, and juvenile probation departments to the list of eligible entities that can apply for grants aimed at developing new career and technical education programs. The amendments also clarify that these entities must apply to the advisory board in a prescribed manner to receive funding.

Additionally, the bill modifies the criteria for awarding grants by including considerations for programs that offer new educational opportunities to students in the Windham School District and those in facilities operated by the Texas Juvenile Justice Department or related entities. The changes aim to enhance educational access and career readiness for juveniles involved in the justice system, thereby promoting their reintegration into society. The bill will take effect immediately if it receives a two-thirds majority vote; otherwise, it will take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Education Code 134.004, Education Code 134.006, Education Code 134.007 (Education Code 134)