The bill, S.B. No. 2059, proposes the addition of a new subchapter, Subchapter K, to Chapter 51 of the Occupations Code, which focuses on the recognition of career and technology education programs by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation. It defines "career and technology education program" to include programs under Subchapter F, Chapter 29 of the Education Code, as well as similar programs offered by institutions of higher education or private schools. The bill mandates the commission to adopt rules for recognizing these programs, which will include criteria for how completion of such programs will contribute to licensing, eligibility for instructors, and standards for essential knowledge and skills.

Additionally, the bill outlines specific requirements for the career and technology education programs, such as the necessity for a combination of classroom instruction and practical components, the allowance for on-the-job training to count towards practical requirements, and a stipulation that programs from institutions of higher education cannot be more stringent than those offered by public high schools. The Texas Commission of Licensing and Regulation is tasked with consulting relevant stakeholders, including the Texas State Technical College, to develop the initial standards for these programs. The bill is set to take effect immediately upon receiving a two-thirds vote from both houses or on September 1, 2025, if that vote is not achieved.

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