Sec. 29.1561. ADMINISTRATION OF EARLY CHILDHOOD CARE AND EDUCATION PROGRAMS. (a) The commissioner may waive a law or rule relating to early childhood care and education programs:

(1) to the extent that the law or rule is more restrictive than required by federal law; or

(2) to the extent necessary to comply with federal law.

(b) Notwithstanding any restriction imposed by this title, the commissioner may administer grants for early childhood care and education programs under Section 29.155 or 29.156, including Head Start and Early Head Start programs, in a manner that provides the greatest flexibility allowed under federal law.

(c) The commissioner by rule may establish a program to provide incentives to providers of early childhood care and education programs that, to the greatest extent practicable, provide coordinated services authorized under Section 29.158(c).

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 790, Sec. 3, eff. Sept. 1, 2003.

Amended by:

Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 275 (S.B. 23), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2005.