BILL ANALYSIS

S.B. 2038

By: Rodríguez

International Relations & Economic Development

Committee Report (Unamended)

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

It has been noted that for many individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, independent living is a feasible and desirable option if the individual is able to find an appropriate job. However, there are often barriers to employment for such individuals, such as a lack of available information regarding potential career options and occupational skills training. S.B. 2038 seeks to allow these individuals to be better informed by requiring the Texas Workforce Commission to prepare and publish on its website a report regarding occupational skills training for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

CRIMINAL JUSTICE IMPACT

It is the committee's opinion that this bill does not expressly create a criminal offense, increase the punishment for an existing criminal offense or category of offenses, or change the eligibility of a person for community supervision, parole, or mandatory supervision.

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

It is the committee's opinion that this bill does not expressly grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, department, agency, or institution.

ANALYSIS

S.B. 2038 amends the Labor Code to require the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) to prepare a report that identifies potential funding sources for occupational skills training programs for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and identifies specific occupations in high-demand industries in Texas for which a postsecondary certification, occupational license, or other workforce credential is required and that may be appropriate for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The bill requires the TWC, not later than November 1, 2020, to publish the report in a prominent location on the TWC website and submit a copy of the report to each legislative standing committee with jurisdiction over workforce development or vocational rehabilitative services. The bill's provisions expire September 1, 2021.

EFFECTIVE DATE

September 1, 2019.