Enrolled Bill Summary

            Senate Bill 1810 amends the Government Code to create the Texas Youthworks Program in the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs with the dual goals of promoting economic self-sufficiency of disadvantaged or at-risk youth and of creating opportunities for communities to build energy-efficient affordable housing and to enhance and restore community facilities, parks, and other properties in low-income areas. A project funded under the program is required to integrate practical, hands-on work experience and academic training, assisting participants to attain both permanent employment and a high school diploma or its equivalent, and to offer counseling and other support services.

            The act requires each qualifying organization that receives funding through the program to establish a project advisory board as well as a participant council and to provide at least 25 percent of the total project funding. A temporary work group composed of representatives of certain state agencies is created to support the department in implementing and promoting the program.