Texas House Bill HB584

Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

• Filed: 11/14/22
• Out of House Committee: 3/20/23
• Voted on by House: 3/30/23
• Out of Senate Committee: 5/10/23
• Voted on by Senate: 5/17/23
• Governor Action: 6/10/23

Caption

Relating to the development of a state information technology credential offered by public junior colleges or public technical institutes to address shortages in the state information resources workforce.

Impact

The implementation of HB 584 is expected to impact the state's approach to workforce education by enabling community and technical colleges to offer tailored training programs. These programs will help prepare students for jobs that are crucial for maintaining and expanding state information systems while also aiming to prevent cybersecurity threats. Furthermore, the initiative seeks to make the state workforce more resilient and capable of adapting to the evolving challenges in information technology.

Summary

House Bill 584 establishes a framework for developing a state information technology credential to address the workforce shortage in the state's information resources sector. It allows the Department of Information Resources (DIR) to partner with public junior colleges and technical institutes to create programs aimed at providing the necessary skills and knowledge for entry-level information technology positions in state agencies. The bill emphasizes the importance of having a credential that aligns with current workforce requirements, particularly in the realms of cybersecurity and IT modernization.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 584 has generally been positive among lawmakers and educational institutions. Supporters assert that this bill is a vital step towards ensuring that Texas can meet future demands in the information technology sector. Community college representatives and educational advocates have highlighted the potential for this program to create concrete pathways for students entering the workforce. However, discussions may arise regarding funding and resource allocation for the training programs.

Contention

While HB 584 aims to fill gaps in the IT workforce, potential points of contention revolve around the funding of these programs and the balance between academic credentials and necessary practical experience. Critics may argue that the introduction of an associate degree with a credential as a substitute for a four-year degree in certain state classifications could lower the standards for entry into state jobs. Thus, ongoing debates may focus on ensuring that such credentials maintain rigorous training standards while still offering expanded access to state employment opportunities.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Government Code

• Chapter 2054. Information Resources
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: 0701
  • Section: New Section

• Chapter 2059. Texas Computer Network Security System
  • Section: 202
  • Section: 202
  • Section: 202
  • Section: 202

Education Code

• Chapter 61. Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: 0512
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: 0512
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: 0512
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: 0512
  • Section: 0512

• Chapter 130. Junior College Districts
  • Section: 0081
  • Section: 0081
  • Section: 0081
  • Section: 0081
  • Section: 0081

• Chapter 135. Texas State Technical College System
  • Section: 06
  • Section: 06
  • Section: 06
  • Section: 06