Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Texas House Bill HB3547

Filed
 
Out of House Committee
 
Voted on by House
 
Out of Senate Committee
 
Voted on by Senate
 
Governor Action
 

Caption

Relating to a voluntary veteran's employment preference for private employers.

Impact

The introduction of HB 3547 aims to enhance employment opportunities for veterans by incentivizing private employers to adopt specific hiring practices. While the preference is voluntary, it represents a significant shift towards recognizing the contributions of veterans in service to the state and nation. Employers are required to apply the policy reasonably and in good faith, especially during workforce reductions, ensuring that veterans are given a fair chance. This bill could potentially increase the hiring of veterans in various sectors, promoting greater economic integration for individuals transitioning from military to civilian life.

Summary

House Bill 3547 establishes a voluntary employment preference policy for private employers to give preference to veterans in hiring, promotion, or retention decisions. The bill defines 'veteran' as an individual who has served on active duty in the armed forces and has been honorably discharged. Employers have the discretion to adopt this policy, which must be documented in writing. This initiative is designed to ease the transition of veterans into the civilian workforce by encouraging their employment through preferential treatment in hiring processes.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 3547 appears largely positive, with supportive voices emphasizing the necessity of providing tangible benefits to those who have served in the military. Lawmakers and advocacy groups advocating for veteran rights have welcomed the bill, arguing that it addresses the unique challenges veterans face when seeking employment. However, there may also be concerns from critics who question the implications such preferences might have on equitable hiring practices overall. Nonetheless, overall reception towards the bill reflects a collective effort to support and honor veterans in the workforce.

Contention

While the bill is fundamentally supportive of veteran employment, some contention may arise regarding how such preferences could impact the hiring landscape for all candidates. Concerns may be voiced about maintaining balance in hiring practices and ensuring that the meritocracy is upheld. Additionally, the bill's voluntary nature raises questions about how many employers will choose to implement the preference and whether this will translate into substantial employment opportunities for veterans.

Companion Bills

TX SB1713

Identical Relating to a voluntary veteran's employment preference for private employers.

Previously Filed As

TX HB5229

Relating to an employment preference for members of the military and their spouses for positions at state agencies.

TX SB1376

Relating to an employment preference for members of the military and their spouses for positions at state agencies.

TX HB1773

Relating to a state employment preference for certain individuals who reside with veterans with a disability.

TX HB5198

Relating to the entitlement of spouses of certain veterans with disabilities to a veteran's employment preference.

TX HB722

Relating to a prohibition of employment discrimination on the basis of reproductive decisions and certain employment agreements limiting reproductive decisions.

TX HB3846

Relating to requiring state contractors, political subdivisions of this state, and private employers to participate in the federal electronic verification of employment authorization program, or E-verify.

TX HB893

Relating to requiring certain employers to provide paid sick leave to employees; providing administrative and civil penalties.

TX SB204

Relating to a prohibition of employment discrimination on the basis of reproductive decisions and certain employment agreements limiting reproductive decisions.

TX SB1621

Relating to requiring state contractors, political subdivisions of this state, and private employers to participate in the federal electronic verification of employment authorization program, or E-verify.

TX HB404

Relating to requiring certain employers to provide paid leave to employees; providing civil and administrative penalties.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.