TX
Texas House Bill HB254

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Texas House Bill HB254

Caption

Relating to the prohibition of certain discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity or expression; providing an administrative penalty; creating a criminal offense.

Impact

If passed, HB 254 would expand the legal protections available to individuals facing discrimination related to their sexual orientation or gender identity. This legislative change would have a notable effect on public accommodations, ensuring that individuals are granted equal rights in a broader array of settings—such as businesses providing food, shelter, and services. Additionally, the bill imposes obligations on state contractors to adopt non-discriminatory employment policies, establishing administrative penalties for non-compliance. Such measures are expected to lead to more inclusive practices across various sectors, advancing equality for LGBTQ+ communities within Texas.

Summary

House Bill 254 is a legislative proposal aimed at prohibiting discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity and expression within the state of Texas. This bill introduces significant changes to the Civil Practice and Remedies Code by adding Chapter 100B, which outlines provisions for addressing discriminatory practices in public accommodations and by state contractors. Under this bill, individuals who believe they have faced discrimination will have the right to seek redress through civil action, making it easier to hold offenders accountable. The bill defines key terms, such as 'aggrieved person,' 'discriminatory practice,' and specifies that religious organizations are exempt unless they engage in profit-generating activities subject to federal taxation.

Contention

The introduction of HB 254 has spurred discussions regarding the balance between anti-discrimination measures and the rights of religious organizations. Critics of the bill have raised concerns that allowing individuals to challenge religious entities on employment practices could infringe upon their freedoms. Conversely, supporters argue that the bill addresses essential human rights issues, giving marginalized groups necessary protections against discrimination. The ongoing debate reflects broader societal tensions between individual rights and organizational beliefs, making HB 254 a focal point in discussions about equality and inclusion in Texas.

Companion Bills

TX SB151

Similar To Relating to the prohibition of certain discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity or expression; providing an administrative penalty; creating a criminal offense.

Previously Filed As

TX HB850

Relating to the prohibition of certain discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity or expression; providing an administrative penalty.

TX SB274

Relating to the prohibition of certain discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity or expression; providing an administrative penalty.

TX HB256

Relating to the prohibition of certain discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity; providing an administrative penalty.

TX HB1806

Relating to the prohibition of employment discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity or expression.

TX HB725

Relating to prohibiting certain discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity or expression.

TX HB265

Relating to the prohibition of housing discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity and to the enforcement of that prohibition.

TX HB3918

Relating to the prohibition, prevention, and remedying of certain discrimination.

TX HB1012

Relating to the prohibition of certain discrimination; authorizing civil penalties.

TX SB110

Relating to the prohibition of certain discrimination; authorizing civil penalties.

TX HB4884

Relating to prohibited discrimination by health care providers based on an individual's age, race, disability, immigration status, sex, sexual orientation, or gender identity or expression.

Similar Bills

TX HB850

Relating to the prohibition of certain discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity or expression; providing an administrative penalty.

TX HB256

Relating to the prohibition of certain discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity; providing an administrative penalty.

TX HB2692

Relating to the prohibition of certain discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity or expression; providing an administrative penalty; creating a criminal offense.

TX SB38

Relating to the prohibition of certain discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity or expression; providing an administrative penalty; creating a criminal offense.

TX HB2524

Relating to the prohibition of certain discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity or expression; providing an administrative penalty.

TX SB165

Relating to the prohibition of certain discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity or expression; providing an administrative penalty; creating an offense.

TX HB1534

Relating to the prohibition of certain discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity or expression; providing an administrative penalty; creating an offense.

TX HB244

Relating to the prohibition of certain discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity or expression; providing an administrative penalty; creating a criminal offense.