TWC opens childcare allowance to workers looking for work – Corridor News

AUSTIN – The Texas Workforce Commission on Tuesday passed a waiver of a rule allowing unemployed people to enroll in the child care subsidy program. Previously, only people who were already employed or in education or training could be enrolled in the child care subsidy program.

This change will help accommodate workers who are actively looking for work, giving them up to three months to find a job.

The program is designed to help working families, so it is generally not available to parents who do not have a job.

However, the lack of childcare services is frequently cited by unemployed people as a major obstacle to getting a job.

“TWC is committed to providing comprehensive services to help job seekers in Texas find rewarding opportunities with Texas employers, ”said TWC President Bryan Daniel. “I encourage Texas families to take advantage of the increased availability of child care services, as well as training and development services through TWC, to pursue a career in the exciting industries of Texas.

The subsidized child care program is funded by a federal grant, which gives the state the ability to expand to this population. The commissioners will derogate from the rules from July 1, 2021 to September 30, 2022.

“Workers in Texas have faced many challenges over the past year, but getting back on their feet after such a long time has been particularly difficult,” said TWC Commissioner representing labor Julian Alvarez. “This is a step we can take that keeps the focus of the program on working families, but provides assistance during this critical time of job search. “

Parents participating in the program receive a subsidy for childcare, with a co-payment based on actual income. The changes will allow parents to qualify for child care with the co-payment lifted until a job is found.

The quota would then be implemented at the appropriate level after the individual’s employment.

“Texas employers are recovering from the pandemic and have job openings they are eager to fill,” said TWC Commissioner representing employers Aaron Demerson. “For some Texans looking for work, child care is the last piece of the puzzle that will help them re-enter the workforce and this program is a win-win situation for employers and employees.”