TX HB5529

Establishes a child-care innovation pilot program administered by the Texas Workforce Commission to increase the supply of quality, affordable child care and encourage employer partnerships in designated pilot regions

Limits initial pilot regions to local workforce development boards serving counties with populations over 2 million adjacent to counties with populations over 2.5 million, or adjacent counties; additional boards may participate through competitive application if funds remain

Requires participating child-care providers to hold a Texas Rising Star 3-star rating or higher (or equivalent accreditation), pay educators at least the county's self-sufficient wage, and maintain participation in state child-care subsidy programs

Allocates at least 90% of appropriated funds for grants, caps administrative costs at 9%, and limits research/evaluation costs to 1%; all grant money must be allocated by December 31, 2027

Mandates quarterly progress reports from participating workforce boards and requires the commission to submit a program effectiveness report to state leadership by December 1, 2026; the program expires September 1, 2029