Relating to the creation of a grant program to promote educational engagement with Texas history.

Contracts

The law prohibits "no-strings-attached" funding. You must execute a contract with the THC that explicitly defines "performance requirements."

• Legal Review: In-house counsel must review the state’s standard contract for clawback provisions. If your organization fails to meet the agreed-upon performance metrics (e.g., student participation numbers), the state may be legally required to recoup funds.
• Indemnification: Expect standard state contracting clauses requiring you to indemnify the THC, necessitating a review of your current liability coverage.

Hiring/Training

• Grant Management: Program staff must be trained to segregate these funds from general operating accounts.
• Data Collection: Staff must be assigned to track specific metrics (participation rates, publication distribution) required for the performance reports.

Reporting & Record-Keeping

• Eligibility Proof: You must document that your organization meets the dual-prong test: (1) hosting a *statewide* competition and (2) publishing works.
• Performance Audits: The statute mandates the THC to "monitor and enforce" the contract. Maintain auditable records of student participation and physical/digital copies of publications for at least 7 years (standard retention for state contracts).

Fees & Costs

• No Application Fee: The statute does not authorize an application fee.
• Administrative Absorption: The Legislative Budget Board assumes agencies will absorb costs; however, your organization must budget for the internal administrative cost of compliance, reporting, and potential legal review of the grant contract.