Texas Senate Bill SB91

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 11/12/24

Caption

Relating to employer civil liability for a vaccine requirement imposed on the employer's employees.

Impact

The bill introduces significant changes to the landscape of employer-employee relations concerning healthcare mandates. Specifically, it holds employers accountable for the health consequences of required vaccinations. This could influence corporate policies regarding vaccine mandates and potentially lead to increased litigation against employers, which would necessitate adjustments in their legal and human resources strategies. Additionally, the provision for employees to claim attorney's fees and court costs could embolden workers to pursue legal claims, potentially increasing the number of lawsuits filed under this new legal standard.

Summary

SB91 proposes amendments to Title 4 of the Civil Practice and Remedies Code, specifically aiming to establish liability for employers regarding vaccine requirements imposed on their employees. Under this bill, employees or their legal representatives could bring legal action against employers for damages resulting from adverse health events related to such vaccine mandates. This legislation intends to provide a legal framework whereby employees can seek recourse if they suffer health complications due to employer-mandated vaccinations.

Contention

Discussion surrounding SB91 may raise important points of contention regarding individual rights versus public health policies. Supporters might argue that the bill safeguards employee health and autonomy by holding employers accountable for their vaccine mandates. Conversely, opponents may view the bill as a hindrance to public health initiatives aimed at increasing vaccination rates, citing that it could deter employers from enforcing vaccine requirements that are essential for workplace safety and public health. Furthermore, clarity regarding the exemptions for those claiming reasons of conscience or medical contraindications could spark debates over what constitutes an acceptable exemption in the context of public health policy.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Civil Practice And Remedies Code

• Chapter 100. Use Of Force In Defense Of Commercial Nuclear Power Plants
  • Section: New Section

Labor Code

• Chapter 1. General Provisions
  • Section: New Section