Texas House Bill HB1654

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to the regulation by a municipality or county of certain employment benefits and policies.

Impact

The implementation of HB 1654 will significantly centralize labor regulations in Texas, limiting local jurisdictions from establishing more stringent rules related to employee benefits or terms of employment. This law means that local governments will not be able to pass legislation that addresses needs or issues specific to their communities if those laws conflict with state or federal regulations. Supporters of the bill argue that this will prevent a patchwork of local laws that could complicate compliance for businesses that operate in multiple jurisdictions, thereby fostering a more uniform regulatory approach.

Summary

House Bill 1654 aims to regulate the powers of municipalities and counties in Texas concerning certain employment benefits and policies. It introduces Chapter 83 to the Labor Code, which prohibits local governments from adopting or enforcing any regulations on employment benefits or conditions that surpass or conflict with existing federal or state laws. Employment benefits are defined broadly to include anything of value received by an employee beyond their regular compensation. The bill mandates that any local ordinance violating this prohibition would be regarded as void and unenforceable.

Contention

While supporters herald HB 1654 as a necessary measure to ensure uniformity and ease for employers, the bill has faced criticism from local government advocates and labor rights groups. Critics argue that the bill undermines local control and flexibility to address unique local labor market conditions, particularly in terms of promoting employee welfare and benefits that exceed state minimums. They express concerns that this could weaken worker protections and limit the ability of municipalities to enact progressive labor policies tailored to their constituents' needs.