1. (a) In consultation with the Office of the Governor, the Commissioner of Higher Education may add an occupation to the list of statewide high-demand occupations under §13.594 (relating to High-Demand Fields Methodology) as an Emerging Occupation.

2. (b) An Emerging Occupation shall meet the following criteria:

   1. (1) The occupation does not already appear among the high-demand occupations for the state; and
   2. (2) The occupation is aligned with a state legislative priority, as evidenced by the passage of legislation or provision of funding to encourage or develop the sector for which the occupation may be necessary.
3. (c) The Commissioner of Higher Education may designate an Emerging Occupation at any time. An institution may earn the rate for a high demand field designated as an Emerging Occupation beginning September 1 of the fiscal year after the occupation is added to the list.
4. (d) An Emerging Occupation shall remain on the list of statewide high-demand occupations under §13.594 for not less than two (2) years.
5. (e) The Commissioner of Higher Education may, in consultation with the Office of the Governor, extend the designation of an Emerging Occupation on the list of statewide high-demand occupations for two (2) years.

Source Note:The provisions of this §13.596 adopted to be effective May 16, 2024, 49 TexReg 3270.