Senate Bill No. 2979 establishes a Child-Care Innovation Pilot Program in Texas, designed to enhance the availability of quality, affordable child care to meet local workforce needs. The Texas Workforce Commission will oversee the program, which involves collaboration between local workforce development boards, employers, and child-care providers to fund innovative projects tailored to local demands. The bill outlines definitions of key terms, the program's administration, and requirements for local boards to submit strategic plans and performance agreements. It also sets eligibility criteria for child-care providers to receive grants, including necessary accreditations and compliance with operational standards.

The bill mandates that local boards report quarterly on grant fund usage and outcomes, while the Texas Workforce Commission must evaluate the program's effectiveness and report findings by December 1, 2026. The program is set to expire on September 1, 2029, unless extended, and its implementation is contingent upon the legislature appropriating funds specifically for this purpose. If such funds are not appropriated, the Commission may use other available appropriations but is not required to do so. The bill is scheduled to take effect on September 1, 2025, allowing for a structured implementation timeline.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: ()