Bill > HB5227

This bill, known as the Creative Rights and Employment Access in Texas Entertainment (CREATE) Act, seeks to protect entertainment industry workers in Texas from retaliation by unions for accepting non-union employment. The legislation defines the entertainment industry broadly, including film, television, video games, music production, and digital media. It prohibits unions from denying employment, blacklisting, imposing fines, revoking membership, or denying benefits to workers who accept non-union jobs. The bill ensures that Texas-based workers cannot be penalized for their union status and that employers are not required to hire exclusively union members. Employers operating in Texas cannot deny work to non-union talent as a condition of operation. Unions found in violation of these provisions can be subject to civil penalties of up to $50,000 per violation, with the attorney general authorized to bring legal action to recover these penalties. Additionally, workers who experience discrimination or retaliation for accepting non-union employment can seek civil action in Texas courts to obtain monetary damages, injunctive relief, and attorney's fees. The act also modifies requirements for production companies seeking state grants, mandating that they demonstrate no restrictions on non-union employment in their union contracts. The bill is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Labor and Employment

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB5227