Relating to establishing a child-care innovation pilot program.

SB 2979 establishes a child-care innovation pilot program under Texas Labor Code Chapter 320 to increase quality, affordable child care and strengthen employer partnerships in specific regions. It directly affects local workforce development boards in counties with populations over 2 million adjacent to counties over 2.5 million (or groups of such counties), which will administer grants for child-care expansion projects and employer collaborations. Key provisions require participating boards to submit strategic plans with measurable goals for expanding child-care access, engaging local employers and stakeholders, and ensuring program sustainability. The program uses state funds to support innovative projects addressing regional workforce needs, with the commission overseeing administration and additional board selection through a competitive process if funds remain.