Texas House Bill HB850

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

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

Impact

If enacted, HB 850 would influence the interpretation and enforcement of current employment laws in Texas related to discrimination. Employers would be legally required to ensure that their hiring, firing, and workplace policies do not discriminate against employees or applicants based on their sexual orientation or gender identity. This legislative change signifies a notable shift towards recognizing the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals and ensuring their protection in the workplace, aligning Texas labor law with broader national trends advocating for equality.

Summary

House Bill 850 aims to expand protections against employment discrimination within Texas by explicitly including sexual orientation and gender identity or expression as protected categories under the Labor Code. This bill amends several sections of the Labor Code, reinforcing that it is unlawful for employers, employment agencies, and labor organizations to discriminate against individuals based on these newly added categories alongside existing protected classes such as race, sex, and age. By doing so, the bill seeks to create a more inclusive and equitable work environment for individuals identifying as LGBTQ+.

Contention

Discussion surrounding HB 850 is likely to generate a spectrum of opinions. Advocates argue that the bill is a critical step in the fight against discrimination and that it will encourage a more diverse and accepting atmosphere in workplaces across the state. Conversely, some opponents might see it as an unnecessary expansion of government regulation that could potentially infringe on the rights of businesses to operate according to their beliefs. The introduction of this bill may lead to debates regarding the balance between individual rights and business freedoms, as well as the potential for legal disputes over interpretations of discrimination based on gender identity and sexual orientation.