Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Texas House Bill HB4377

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

Caption

Relating to the confidentiality of certain communications involving an ombudsman program established by an employer as an alternative dispute resolution service.

Impact

The implications of HB 4377 are significant, as it sets forth strict guidelines that would protect communication made by employees during disputes. By ensuring confidentiality of communications, the bill aims to encourage employees to voice concerns without fear of retribution or the potential for these discussions to be used against them in litigation. This could foster a more open dialogue about workplace issues and contribute to more effective dispute resolutions.

Summary

House Bill 4377 addresses the establishment and confidentiality of ombudsman programs in the workplace, designed as an alternative dispute resolution service for employers. The bill allows employers to set up these programs to assist in resolving workplace disputes while ensuring that communications within the program are confidential. Specifically, it introduces a new chapter in the Civil Practice and Remedies Code focused on the regulations surrounding such ombudsman programs, including definitions, establishment processes, and confidentiality provisions.

Contention

However, there may be points of contention regarding the limits of these ombudsman programs. Critics could argue that while confidentiality is important, it may also shield employers from accountability for misconduct or unresolved issues that do not escalate to formal investigations. Additionally, the bill entails that ombudsman programs should not be involved in essential business functions, limiting their authority to address complaints directly, which could lead to frustrations among staff seeking resolution of serious issues.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB3462

Relating to the consolidation of ombudsman programs administered by the Health and Human Services Commission.

TX HB1924

Relating to the establishment of an ombudsman for parents of children enrolled in public school.

TX HB89

Relating to the establishment of an ombudsman for parents of children enrolled in public school.

TX SB2114

Relating to the establishment of the office of independent ombudsman for the Texas Education Agency.

TX SB1367

Relating to the confidentiality of certain information for employees of a county courthouse or the Office of Court Administration of the Texas Judicial System and the employees' family members.

TX SB1386

Relating to the creation of the office of independent oversight ombudsman for the Texas Department of Criminal Justice.

TX HB4611

Relating to the nonsubstantive revision of the health and human services laws governing the Health and Human Services Commission, Medicaid, and other social services.

TX HB4089

Relating to the Texas Alternatives to Abortion Program.

TX HB2703

Relating to a study on alternatives to litigation for disputed land title claims.

TX HB1520

Relating to the continuation and functions of the Texas Juvenile Justice Department and the functions of the office of independent ombudsman for the Texas Juvenile Justice Department.

Similar Bills

TX HB1371

Relating to the creation of an independent ombudsman for children and youth in foster care.

TX SB830

Relating to the creation of an independent ombudsman for children and youth in foster care.

LA SB137

Creates the Office of the State Child Ombudsman and the state child ombudsman. (8/1/23) (EN +$293,877 GF EX See Note)

NJ S3461

Establishes Office of Ombudsman for Mental Health and Addiction Services.

NJ A4275

Establishes Office of Ombudsman for Mental Health and Addiction Services.

NJ S1283

Establishes Office of Ombudsman for Mental Health and Addiction Services.

TX HB284

Relating to the establishment of an ombudsman for parents of children enrolled in public school.

TX HB1924

Relating to the establishment of an ombudsman for parents of children enrolled in public school.