Bill > HB1164

This bill expands anti-discrimination protections in Texas by adding sexual orientation, gender identity, and military veteran status as protected categories across various areas of law, including employment, housing, and public accommodations. Specifically, the bill amends existing laws to prohibit discrimination based on these new categories in contexts such as hiring, firing, rental, sale of property, workplace training programs, job advertisements, and public services. The bill defines key terms like "sexual orientation" (meaning an individual's actual or perceived heterosexuality, bisexuality, or homosexuality), "gender identity" (an individual's gender-related identity or characteristics), and "military veteran" (a person who has served in the armed forces and been honorably discharged). The legislation allows the Texas Workforce Commission to investigate complaints of discrimination, provides a process for filing and resolving such complaints, and enables potential civil actions and remedies including compensatory and punitive damages. The bill includes provisions for administrative and judicial enforcement, and allows for alternative dispute resolution methods. The changes will take effect on September 1, 2025, and will apply to conduct occurring on or after that date.

Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1164