TWC advances multiple Chapter 815 rule changes: publication for comment and adoption of final rule implementing HB 3698

Reed O'Brien of the Office of General Counsel presented two packages of proposed amendments to 40 Texas Administrative Code Chapter 815 related to unemployment insurance. The first package clarifies mailing‑address requirements, hearing procedures, and removes an obsolete reference to the Department of Aging and Disability Services while preserving agency flexibility. The second package implements statutory changes (SB1786, HB2, HB120) to enhance employer wage‑reporting elements. "Staff recommends submitting the proposed rule for publication in the Texas Register for a 30‑day public comment period," O'Brien said; commissioners voted to publish both proposals for comment.

In a separate item, Rita O'Brien presented a final rule amending Chapter 815 to implement House Bill 3698, which expands participation in federal reemployment services, increases the minimum weekly work‑search contacts from three to five, requires claimant identity verification, updates exemptions, and corrects outdated references. Staff reported no comments were received during the comment period and the commission voted to adopt the final rule.