Texas House Bill HB167

Texas 2021 - 87th 3rd C.S.

Caption

Relating to civil liability for certain vaccine requirements or incentives.

Impact

The enactment of HB167 will create a new legal framework for addressing grievances related to vaccination requirements in the workplace and in commerce. It specifically establishes the rights of employees and consumers against employers and service providers who impose vaccination mandates or incentives. This is set to have a broad impact on workplace policies, especially in fields requiring vaccination, as it may prompt employers to reevaluate their vaccination strategies and rethink incentive programs in light of potential legal risks. It is especially relevant as vaccination has become a divisive issue in recent times.

Summary

House Bill 167 seeks to amend the Civil Practice and Remedies Code by adding Chapter 100B, which introduces civil liability standards for employers and individuals related to vaccine mandates or incentives. The bill allows employees to sue employers if they suffer damages from receiving a vaccine that the employer required or incentivized as part of their employment conditions. Additionally, individuals can pursue legal action against businesses that mandate vaccination as a condition for receiving goods or services. This legislation is significant in its potential to affect the liability landscape for vaccine-related issues within the state.

Contention

During the discussions surrounding HB167, notable points of contention arose among legislators and stakeholders. Supporters argue that the bill protects individual rights by allowing employees and consumers to seek redress for adverse effects resulting from vaccinations that were a condition of their employment or receipt of services. Critics, however, express concerns that the bill may discourage companies from implementing necessary vaccination policies, potentially affecting public health outcomes. Additionally, there are fears that the bill could be misused to challenge legitimate public health efforts, leading to a possible rise in vaccine hesitancy.