H.B. No. 4479 proposes the establishment of the Rural Workforce Development Grant Program, which will be added as Subchapter J to Chapter 302 of the Labor Code. The program aims to provide grants to nonprofit organizations that will assist institutions of higher education and school districts in rural areas of Texas in aligning workforce training and education to meet local workforce demands. The Texas Workforce Commission, in consultation with the Texas Education Agency and the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, will oversee the program's administration, including the establishment of eligibility criteria for nonprofit organizations seeking grants.

The bill outlines specific requirements for grant eligibility, including the need for nonprofit organizations to demonstrate experience in providing technical assistance and support in rural areas. It also stipulates that grant funds can only be used for costs associated with workforce training and education in these regions. Additionally, the commission is tasked with adopting rules for the program's administration, ensuring appropriate use of grant funds, and submitting an annual report on the program's effectiveness to key state officials. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

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