HBA-MPA S.B. 231 76(R) BILL ANALYSIS Office of House Bill AnalysisS.B. 231 By: Ellis Economic Development 4/23/1999 Engrossed BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Currently, Texas faces a workforce shortage and skills gap that may put Texas behind other states in economic and technological competitiveness. Technology is the economic force driving Texas' economy, but more technology workers are needed to continue growth. S.B. 231 requires the Texas Workforce Commission to begin a marketing and information program to encourage more Texans to enter technology industries. RULEMAKING AUTHORITY It is the opinion of the Office of House Bill Analysis that this bill does not expressly delegate any additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, department, agency, or institution. SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS SECTION 1. Amends Subchapter A, Chapter 302, Labor Code, by adding Section 302.008, to require the Texas Workforce Commission to develop an information and marketing campaign designed to encourage residents of the state to enter the technology workforce. Requires the campaign to target populations that are traditionally economically disadvantaged and underrepresented in the technology workforce. SECTION 2.Emergency clause. Effective date: upon passage.