Bill > HB1351

This bill establishes a comprehensive family and medical leave program for Texas employees, providing up to 30 days of leave for various personal and family health-related reasons, including caring for a serious health condition of oneself or family members, spending time with a new child, and supporting victims of family violence, sexual assault, or trafficking. Employees who have worked for an employer for at least one year are eligible, and the leave can be used for purposes such as medical care, emotional support, treatment assistance, and legal proceedings. The bill creates a wage replacement benefit system for employees whose employers do not provide paid leave, funded by a monthly employee contribution of 0.25% of their average monthly pay. Employers are prohibited from interfering with or discriminating against employees who use this leave, and the Texas Workforce Commission will oversee the program, develop an outreach initiative, and create implementation rules. The program will begin on January 1, 2026, with the commission developing detailed procedures by November 1, 2025. Notably, the bill does not require employers to create a paid leave program if they do not already have one, but provides a framework for employees to access leave and potential wage replacement benefits.

Labor and Employment

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1351