S.B. No. 2448 establishes the Rural Workforce Development Grant Program under a new Subchapter J in 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. These grants are intended to help align and deliver workforce training and higher education programs to address skills gaps and meet urgent workforce demands in these regions. The Texas Workforce Commission, in consultation with the Texas Education Agency and the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, will oversee the program's administration.

To qualify for a grant, nonprofit organizations must demonstrate relevant experience and adhere to specific criteria set by the commission. The bill outlines that grant funds can only be used for costs associated with providing technical assistance and support to rural educational institutions. Additionally, the commission is tasked with adopting rules for the program's administration and will submit an annual report on the grants awarded and the program's effectiveness. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

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