Bill > HB835

This bill addresses employment discrimination related to compensation and wage history by making several key changes to Texas labor law. First, it clarifies that discrimination in compensation is considered an unlawful employment practice each time a discriminatory compensation decision is made, an employee becomes subject to such a decision, or an employee is adversely affected by such a decision, including each time wages impacted by the decision are paid. The bill also expands the ability for individuals to seek relief for discriminatory compensation practices that may have occurred outside the typical filing period if they are similar to current practices. Additionally, the bill creates new provisions that prohibit employers from inquiring about an applicant's wage history, either verbally or in writing, and from requiring wage history disclosure as a condition of employment. The legislation further protects employees and applicants from retaliation if they discuss, compare, or disclose wage information. Enforced by the Texas Workforce Commission, these provisions will take effect on January 1, 2026, and aim to promote pay equity and prevent wage discrimination. The bill takes immediate effect if it receives a two-thirds vote in the Texas Legislature, otherwise becoming effective on September 1, 2025.

Labor and Employment

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB835