Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB1713

Voted on by Senate
 
Out of House Committee
 
Voted on by House
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

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

Impact

The introduction of this bill is noteworthy as it encourages the private sector to recognize and reward the experiences of veterans, potentially aiding their transition into civilian employment. By granting veterans a hiring advantage, the legislation may foster a more favorable job market for this demographic and help reduce veteran unemployment rates. Nevertheless, the bill emphasizes that the adoption of such preferences is optional for employers, meaning the overall impact will depend on the willingness of businesses to implement these policies.

Summary

SB1713 is a bill aimed at implementing a voluntary employment preference policy for veterans within private sector employers in Texas. The bill defines a 'veteran' as someone who has served on active duty in the U.S. armed forces and has been honorably discharged. Under this legislation, private employers can adopt written policies that provide preference to veterans in employment decisions, which may include hiring, promotions, and retention efforts, particularly during workforce reductions. This voluntary framework seeks to encourage private employers to support the hiring of qualified veterans.

Contention

While the bill presents a supportive initiative for veterans, it may also raise concerns among non-veteran candidates regarding equitable hiring practices. Critics may argue that giving preference to veterans, even voluntarily, could lead to the perception of unfair advantages in competitive job markets. Additionally, questions about the effectiveness of these policies in truly enhancing veteran employment prospects could arise, especially if employers do not actively choose to implement them. Ultimately, the balance between supporting veterans and maintaining fair hiring practices will be a key point of contention as the bill receives further discussion.

Companion Bills

TX HB3547

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

Previously Filed As

TX SB1376

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

TX HB5229

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 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 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 SB892

Relating to the employment of certain peace officers as private security officers.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.