Texas Office of the Governor

The Strategic Plan for the Texas Workforce System (FY2010-FY2015) focuses on enabling Texas to compete successfully in the global market by creating a globally competitive workforce through collaborative partner relationships that align, leverage, and integrate system services. Key areas of focus include ensuring a skilled workforce at all levels, encouraging local flexibility, maintaining strong accountability, and emphasizing economic development to meet employer needs and satisfaction. The plan also addresses critical issues such as high school dropout rates, the transferability of academic and technical dual credit courses, and enhancing employment outcomes for various populations, including the blind, disabled, veterans, and English language learners.

The meeting addressed a range of issues impacting people with disabilities, including challenges in accessing neurorehabilitation services, the need for improved interpreting services, and concerns about mental health support. Discussions covered topics such as the lengthy application process for the STAP Program, evacuation procedures for wheelchair users on college campuses, and the shortage of community attendants. The committee also reviewed policy recommendations, including those related to accessible playgrounds and tuition waivers for deaf-blind individuals. Public comments highlighted issues such as parking problems at apartment complexes, course withdrawals in higher education, and the need for better support for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in the criminal justice system. Updates were provided by various agencies, including the Texas Workforce Commission, the Department of Protective Family Services, the Texas Education Agency, and the Health and Human Services Commission.

The committee discussed various topics including community support for people with disabilities, challenges faced by individuals with neurological injuries, interpreting services for the deaf and hard of hearing, and mental health services. The committee also discussed issues related to the lengthy application process for the STAP Program, safe evacuations of campus buildings for wheelchair users, and the shortage of community attendants. Invited Ex officio Agency Representatives provided updates from the Texas Workforce Commission, Department of Protective Family Services, Texas Education Agency, Health and Human Services Commission, and Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation. The committee also discussed policy recommendations related to rural accessible transportation and interlocal/regional transportation planning.

The Texas Governor's Committee on People with Disabilities held a quarterly meeting to discuss various topics, including welcoming remarks from city and college representatives, committee member absences, public comments, and listening to the Dallas Disability Community. Reports were presented by invited ex-officio agency representatives, followed by policy discussions and recommendations related to access, communications, criminal justice, education, employment, emergency preparedness, health, housing, transportation, and veterans. The agenda also included a summit report on vision loss in older adults, best practices and policy recommendations for Texas Mental Health Diversion Courts, an executive director report, and committee member reports. The meeting also involved discussions around quarterly meeting minutes, inclusive higher education programs, the Architectural Barriers Program, and human trafficking prevention.

The 2018 Strategic Report by the Texas Military Value Task Force focuses on strategies to improve military value installations and prevent closures. Key areas include funding the Defense Economic Adjustment Assistance Grant (DEAAG), addressing encroachment issues, supporting spousal employment and education, ensuring quality schools and life, promoting energy resiliency and cyber security, and enhancing healthcare. The report emphasizes innovative partnerships, economic development, and leveraging Texas' strengths to support military missions and members.