Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB2104

Voted on by Senate
 
Out of House Committee
 
Voted on by House
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to the prohibition of military status discrimination.

Impact

If enacted, SB2104 would extend existing civil rights protections to military personnel and their families, making it illegal for employers to discriminate against individuals during hiring, employment practices, or through employment agencies based on military status. The amendments seek to ensure equal opportunity in the workplace and to uphold the rights of those who serve or have served in the military, reflecting a societal commitment to recognizing the sacrifices made by these individuals.

Summary

SB2104 proposes to amend the Texas Labor Code to prohibit discrimination based on an individual's military status. The bill clearly defines military status to include current service members, members of reserve components, honorably discharged veterans, and the spouses and children of those who have served. The objective is to ensure that individuals with military connections are protected against employment discrimination, similar to protections based on race, color, disability, religion, sex, national origin, and age.

Contention

While the bill is expected to gain support for its intent to safeguard military personnel, there may be contention regarding the enforcement mechanisms and implications for employers. Some may argue that the addition of military status as a protected category could complicate compliance for businesses, particularly small employers who may feel burdened by the need to adapt their hiring practices. Additionally, there is recognition of existing programs that preferentially treat veterans which this bill aims to respect, potentially leading to discussions on how to balance these new protections with affirmative action policies.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB1164

Relating to the prohibition of certain discrimination; authorizing civil penalties.

TX SB150

Relating to the prohibition of certain discrimination; authorizing civil penalties.

TX HB38

Relating to the prohibition of certain discrimination; authorizing civil penalties.

TX HB55

An Act To Amend The Delaware Code Relating To Prohibited Discrimination On The Basis Of Military Status.

TX HB5373

Relating to the prohibition of caste-based discrimination.

TX LD521

An Act to Prohibit Discrimination in Housing Based on Source of Income, Veteran Status or Military Status

TX S2773

Enhances protections under Law Against Discrimination for persons serving in military and military veterans.

TX A2748

Enhances protections under Law Against Discrimination for persons serving in military and military veterans.

TX LB694

Prohibit discrimination based on military or veteran status

TX SB66

Provides relative to discrimination based on military status in education, employment, public accommodations and housing options. (8/1/25)

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