Relating to the rating of child-care providers participating in the Texas Rising Star Program that install certain safety barriers.
Summary
HB 4113 would direct the Texas Workforce Commission to award a higher rating under the Texas Rising Star Program to child-care providers that install crash-rated bollards or similar safety barriers near areas where children and staff are most likely to gather, such as playgrounds and facility entrances. The bill is aimed at encouraging child-care facilities to add exterior protections that could reduce the risk of vehicle intrusion or similar hazards.
The measure also requires the commission to adopt rules to administer the new rating preference, and it would take effect September 1, 2025. In practical terms, the bill does not mandate that providers install these barriers, but it creates an incentive within the state’s child-care quality rating system for providers that do so.
Impact
HB 4113 would amend Chapter 2308 of the Government Code by adding a new section governing Texas Rising Star ratings for child-care providers. It would affect the Texas Workforce Commission, which oversees the program and would be responsible for rulemaking and implementation. Child-care providers participating in Texas Rising Star could receive a higher rating if they install qualifying safety barriers, potentially influencing facility design, safety investments, and program participation decisions.
Sentiment
The available record shows no committee transcript or recorded votes, so there is no direct evidence of debate or opposition in the materials provided. Based on the bill text, the proposal appears safety-oriented and likely intended to be viewed favorably as a child-protection measure. Its committee status of being left pending suggests it had not yet advanced, but the context does not reveal whether that was due to disagreement, scheduling, or other legislative priorities.
Contention
The main policy question appears to be whether the state should use the Texas Rising Star rating system to incentivize installation of crash-rated bollards or similar barriers, and whether that incentive is an appropriate or effective way to improve child-care safety. Potential points of concern could include the cost of installation for providers, the scope of facilities that would benefit, and how the commission would define and verify qualifying safety barriers. No specific objections or supporters are identified in the available discussion materials.
Relating to a process for determining the rating level of certain child-care facilities operated by providers participating in the Texas Rising Star Program.
Relating to establishing optional certifications for child-care providers participating in the Texas Rising Star Program and establishing a grant program for those providers.