Texas House Bill HB106

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to employer retaliation against employees who seek recovery of unpaid wages and procedures in wage claim hearings conducted by the Texas Workforce Commission.

Impact

The bill introduces significant amendments to the Texas Labor Code, particularly in Subchapter B of Chapter 61. It mandates that affected employees can seek damages for retaliation in cases where employers take adverse actions against them for asserting their wage claims. A key component of the legislation is the establishment of a process for filing complaints with the Texas Workforce Commission, which ensures an investigative mechanism is in place to handle cases of alleged retaliation effectively.

Summary

House Bill 106 is a legislative proposal aimed at strengthening protections for employees seeking recovery of unpaid wages in the state of Texas. The bill specifically prohibits employer retaliation against employees who pursue their rights under wage recovery laws. This includes actions such as suspending or terminating employees for filing complaints, seeking assistance, or exercising their rights under state and federal laws. Additionally, the bill establishes a legal framework for employees to sue employers for adverse employment actions, potentially leading to various forms of compensation including damages and reinstatement to previous positions.

Contention

Notably, discussions surrounding HB 106 highlight concerns among various stakeholders regarding the balance between employer rights and employee protections. Supporters argue that the legislation is essential for protecting vulnerable workers and ensuring they can confidently pursue their legal remedies without fear of retaliation. Critics, however, could voice concerns about the implications of increased liabilities and administrative burdens for businesses, suggesting that the bill might lead to heightened litigation against employers. Ensuring that the bill promotes fair labor practices while not overregulating businesses remains a critical point of discussion among legislators.