Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB2603

Voted on by Senate
 
Out of House Committee
 
Voted on by House
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to cooperation by economic development program participants with local workforce development boards.

Impact

The legislation has the potential to positively impact state employment laws by ensuring that employers actively engage with local workforce resources. By encouraging companies to prioritize candidates receiving public assistance, the bill aims to foster inclusivity in hiring practices. This can lead to a better overall employment rate in areas where economic development programs are being implemented, reinforcing the state's commitment to supporting both businesses and job seekers, especially those at a disadvantage.

Summary

SB2603 aims to improve cooperation between employers participating in economic development programs and local workforce development boards in Texas. Specifically, it mandates that employers who are hiring to fill open positions must reach out to the relevant local workforce development board. This interaction is intended to ensure that potential candidates from career development centers, established under state regulations, are considered for employment opportunities. This proposal seeks to enhance the alignment between economic development efforts and workforce readiness in local communities.

Contention

While the bill is largely aimed at enhancing collaboration for employment opportunities, there may be some contention regarding the implementation and feasibility of requiring such employer engagement with local workforce boards. Critics may argue that mandating this process could impose additional burdens on businesses already navigating complex hiring processes. Moreover, the requirement to consider applicants receiving public assistance could evoke concerns about the balance between fulfilling business needs and supporting vulnerable populations. Thus, discussions surrounding SB2603 might focus on the practicality of these mandates and their broader impacts on economic development.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Government Code

  • Chapter 2308. Workforce Investment Act
    • Section: New Section

Human Resources Code

  • Chapter 31. Financial Assistance And Service Programs
    • Section: New Section

Companion Bills

TX HB5390

Identical Relating to cooperation by economic development program participants with local workforce development boards.

Previously Filed As

TX HB5390

Relating to cooperation by economic development program participants with local workforce development boards.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.