1. (a) For purposes of this rule, "finance agencies" means the Texas Department of Banking, the Texas Department of Savings and Mortgage Lending, and the Office of Consumer Credit Commissioner. Pursuant to the State Employees Training Act, Chapter 656, Subchapter C of the Texas Government Code, it is the policy and practice of the finance agencies to encourage employees' professional development through training and education programs sponsored or supported by the finance agencies.
2. (b) The finance agencies may provide assistance for education and training that will enhance an employee's ability to perform current or prospective job duties and will benefit both the respective finance agency and the employee.
3. (c) Approval to participate in a training or education program is not automatic and is subject to eligibility of individual employees as established in the respective finance agency's policy, and the availability of funds within the respective finance agency's budget.

4. (d) The employee training and education program for the finance agencies may include one or more of the following:

   1. (1) agency-sponsored training provided in-house or by contract;
   2. (2) seminars and conferences;
   3. (3) technical or professional certifications and licenses; or
   4. (4) reimbursement for tuition, fees and required course materials.

5. (e) The finance agencies will develop and maintain policies for administering the employee training and education program of each respective finance agency. These policies will include:

   1. (1) eligibility requirements for participation;
   2. (2) designation of appropriate level of approval for participation; and
   3. (3) obligations of program participants.
6. (f) Approval to participate in any portion of a finance agency's training and education program will not in any way affect an employee's at-will status.

Source Note:The provisions of this §5.101 adopted to be effective November 6, 2014, 39 TexReg 8571.