Texas House Bill HB374

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

• Filed: 11/16/16

Caption

Relating to the requirement that the Texas Workforce Commission provide certain employment information for secondary school students.

Impact

The successful enactment of HB 374 would directly impact the way career education programs are structured within Texas high schools. By requiring the provision of employment data on a quarterly basis, it assures that educators and students have access to the latest labor market information, which can influence curriculum development and extracurricular offerings. The implications of this bill could lead to more targeted training and work opportunities, ultimately increasing students' employability post-graduation.

Summary

House Bill 374 seeks to enhance the quality of career preparation for secondary school students in Texas by mandating the Texas Workforce Commission to provide specific employment information to the Texas Education Agency. The bill emphasizes the need for timely insights into current and projected employment opportunities, as well as career and technical education partnerships with businesses. This information aims to better align educational programs with market needs, thus helping students to make informed decisions about their career paths.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 374 appears to be largely positive, particularly among legislators focused on education and workforce development. Supporters express that the bill addresses a critical gap in career readiness among secondary students, providing them with essential tools to navigate future employment landscapes. However, while there seems to be general agreement on the importance of the issue, discussions about implementation and access to data may present areas for concern among educators and institutions.

Contention

While HB 374 is designed to enhance support for student employment endeavors, there are some notable points of contention regarding the breadth and efficacy of the information to be provided. Critics may argue about the effectiveness of the data-sharing process and whether it will genuinely reflect the needs of individual communities or if it will lean towards broad projections that might not necessarily cater to local nuances. Additionally, the logistics of providing this information quarterly may raise questions about the workload on the Texas Workforce Commission and the consequent impact on timely dissemination.