TX SB1620

Establishes the Texas Forensic Analyst Apprenticeship Pilot Program to increase forensic science workforce capacity in Texas, administered by the Office of Court Administration in collaboration with the Texas Forensic Science Commission

Requires the office to contract with general academic teaching institutions, medical and dental units offering forensic discipline training programs, and publicly funded accredited crime laboratories awarded apprentice positions

Texas Forensic Science Commission must adopt eligibility rules for individuals applying for apprentice positions and for publicly funded accredited crime laboratories seeking to sponsor apprentices, prioritizing long-term retention of forensic analysts

Commission must consult with the Texas Association of Crime Lab Directors to determine current needs for forensic analyst apprentices in each forensic discipline

Pilot program takes effect September 1, 2025, and expires September 1, 2030