TWC Reinstates Work Requirements for Child Care
Texas Workforce Commission • October 14, 2020
Effort Helps Ensure Child Care Availability Not a Barrier to Re-entering Workforce
The Texas Workforce Commission
(TWC) approved changes to its subsidized child care program to reinstate work requirements for parents receiving benefits. The change, following the state’s continued re-openings of businesses, brings TWC's subsidized care program in line with its mission: to provide improved access to quality child care to enable families to return to work. The change goes into effect Nov. 1, but most parents on the program will continue to be covered until Nov. 27.
“This action ensures working parents continue to have access to an important child care program,” said TWC Chairman Bryan Daniel. “TWC's child care programs help parents care for their children, while they provide for their families.”
TWC removed the work requirement as part of its COVID-19 response, to provide short-term relief and greater stability for child care providers. With more Texas businesses getting back to work, however, the lack of a work requirement makes it more difficult for working families to access those funds. There are currently 39,000 Texans on waiting lists for the program.
“Access to child care is essential to our workforce and our state’s economy,” said Commissioner Representing Labor Julian Alvarez. “This action will ensure those funds go to those people who need it the most – workers who have returned to work, but face the challenges of paying for care for pre-school children.”
TWC will provide a grace period so that parents currently on the program who have already received three or more months of child care following a permanent job loss will continue to receive subsidized child care through Nov. 27.
“Texas continues to re-open and more businesses are adapting to do so both strategically and safely,” said Commissioner Representing Employers Aaron Demerson. “Ensuring workers have access to child care they can afford is paramount to helping Texans get back to work, which is key to helping Texas’ economy grow.”
Deadline for applications - September 26, 2025
Workforce Solutions East Texas (WSET) and Texas Workforce Solutions -Vocational Rehabilitation Services (TWS-VRS) invite you to a celebration event on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, from 9:30 am to noon at the Longview Workforce Solutions Center located at 1905 W. Loop 281, Longview, TX 75604. At WSET, we are deeply committed to fostering an environment that welcomes all abilities in the workforce. National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) is a powerful reminder of the immense talent and untapped potential that individuals with disabilities bring to our workplaces. Whether you are an employer seeking to hire individuals with disabilities, an organization championing disability rights, or someone seeking to learn more TWS-VRS we invite you to attend our upcoming event. Our event promises insightful discussions, valuable networking opportunities, stories from participants who are successfully navigating their journey after receiving services through TWS-VRS along with those business partners who have hired them. There will also be resources aimed at helping businesses take significant steps toward creating a workplace that includes all abilities on their team. Let's come together to celebrate our 80th anniversary of National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM). We celebrate the value and talent that all Americans - including people with disabilities – bring to our businesses, organizations, and communities. Join us in the momentous occasion as we celebrate this milestone in our nation’s history.
When Malachi Whedbee joined the Summer Earn and Learn (SEAL) program, he saw it as an opportunity to gain experience, learn new skills, and contribute to his community. What he didn’t expect was how much of an impact his dedication would make—both on his future and on the people around him. Through SEAL, Malachi began working full-time at the Upshur Rural Library, clocking in at 8:00 a.m. every morning and working until 5:00 p.m. His days were filled with tasks like completing computer library entries, assisting with various projects, and lending a hand wherever needed. But for Malachi, these duties weren’t just boxes to check—they were chances to prove himself. And prove himself he did. Malachi’s exceptional work ethic showed in everything he did. He was always on time, completed assignments with precision, and eagerly stepped up for additional responsibilities. His positive attitude was contagious, creating a welcoming environment for both staff and patrons. Mrs. King, the library’s supervisor, quickly recognized that Malachi was more than just a temporary hire—he was an asset. Describing him as “outgoing, dependable, and hardworking,” she praised his professionalism and the joy he brought to the workplace. By the end of the program, Malachi’s efforts had done more than meet expectations—they had opened a door. Mrs. King was so impressed that she offered him an interview for a permanent position at the library. With the same enthusiasm and determination he brought to every day on the job, Malachi accepted the opportunity. Malachi’s journey through SEAL is more than a personal achievement—it’s a shining example of how young adults with disabilities can break barriers and build meaningful careers when given the chance. His story is a reminder that talent, dedication, and opportunity are the real building blocks of success.
