Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Texas House Bill HB540

Caption

Relating to the authority of a municipality or county to require a labor peace agreement as a condition of engaging in a commercial transaction with the municipality or county.

Impact

The enactment of HB 540 could significantly reshape the landscape of labor relations within municipal contracts in Texas. It establishes a clear prohibition against local governments from demanding labor peace agreements, which some argue are necessary for maintaining harmony between businesses and labor organizations. The law could deter municipalities from seeking contractual agreements that align with union organizations or conditions favorable to employees, thereby influencing how local governments approach contracts with private entities.

Summary

House Bill 540 addresses the authority of municipalities and counties in Texas regarding labor peace agreements, specifically prohibiting them from requiring such agreements as a condition for commercial transactions. The bill defines a labor peace agreement as any settlement between a person and its employees or their representatives that restricts rights under federal labor laws. As a result, if a municipality or county enforces an ordinance that imposes such conditions on businesses seeking contracts, it would be in violation of this new law.

Contention

The bill has sparked debate concerning local governance and labor rights. Proponents argue that such provisions are essential to prevent government overreach into private business agreements and protect the rights of employers under federal labor laws. Opponents, however, contend that the bill diminishes the ability of local governments to negotiate labor terms that might benefit employees, arguing that labor peace agreements can be crucial in ensuring fair working conditions. This tension highlights the ongoing debate between labor rights advocates and supporters of business autonomy.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB3328

Relating to the authority of certain counties and municipalities to regulate certain subdivisions in a municipality's extraterritorial jurisdiction.

TX HB193

Relating to authorization for a county or municipality to establish a local minimum wage.

TX SB582

Relating to authorization for a county or municipality to establish a local minimum wage.

TX HB2281

Relating to the authority of certain municipalities to prohibit openly carrying a handgun within the municipality.

TX SB45

Relating to the authority of a municipality or county to prohibit the movement of people through the municipality or county.

TX SB130

Relating to the regulation by a municipality or county of certain employment benefits and policies.

TX HB121

Relating to the regulation by a municipality or county of certain employment benefits and policies.

TX SB563

Relating to the regulation by a municipality or county of certain employment benefits and policies.

TX HB4441

Relating to reporting requirements for municipalities and counties that impose a hotel occupancy tax.

TX HB2633

Relating to conditions imposed on an emergency services district that includes territory in the extraterritorial jurisdiction of certain municipalities.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.