SRC-JJJ S.B. 722 76(R) BILL ANALYSIS Senate Research Center S.B. 722 76R5798 CAG-DBy: Luna Higher Education 3/30/1999 As Filed DIGEST Currently, the growing high-tech industry in the San Antonio area has created a demand for a technologically advanced workforce. S.B. 722 would establish a high technology training program to be administered by the Texas State Technical College System designed to benefit Bexar County and the state as a whole by training a technologically advanced workforce. PURPOSE As proposed, S.B. 722 establishes a high technology training program by the Texas State Technical College System. RULEMAKING AUTHORITY This bill does not grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, institution, or agency. SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS SECTION 1. Amends Chapter 135C, Education Code, by adding Section 135.61 as follows: Sec. 135.61. HIGH TECHNOLOGY TRAINING PROGRAM. Requires the board of regents of the Texas State Technical College System (the board) to establish a high technology training program serving Bexar County and designed to benefit the state by training a technologically advanced workforce for the high technology industry. Requires the board to enter into a joint participation agreement with any junior college district providing services in the county in which the program is located. Requires the legislature to appropriate funds for the administration of and instruction at a program established under this section on the basis of a formula developed by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board. Requires that not more than 50 percent of the cost of construction, operation, and maintenance of a facility used for a program may come from state money appropriated for that purpose. Authorizes the board to solicit, accept, and administer gifts and grants for the use and benefit of the program. Provides that a program is subject to the continuing supervision of the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB)and its rules under Chapter 61. SECTION 2. Requires THECB, not later than December 1, 1999, to prepare a report examining the initial implementation of Section 135.61, Education Code, including the actions taken by THECB, Texas State Technical College System, and each junior college district that has entered into a joint participation agreement with the Texas State Technical College System under Section 135.61. SECTION 3. Emergency clause. Effective date: upon passage.