Nondiscrimination:

HB 538: Relating to prohibition of employment discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity/expression.

Primary Author: Rep. Mike Villarreal (D-San Antonio)

Joint Author: Rep. Ellen Cohen (D-Houston)

Co-Author: Rep. Alma Allen (D-Houston); Rep. Lon Burnam (D-Fort Worth); Rep. Jessica Farrar (D-Houston)

Background: Equality Texas worked with Rep. Villarreal's office to draft language which would prohibit discrimination in employment based on sexual orientation and gender identity/expression. In 2007, Rep. Villarreal filed an omnibus nondiscrimination bill, HB 900.  The 2009 bill takes an assertive new approach which would incorporate sexual orientation and gender identity/expression into all existing labor code sections dealing with nondiscrimination, treating them equally with race, color, disability, religion, sex, national origin, or age.

Equality Texas Position: Supports. This bill is part of our Legislative Agenda.

Equality Texas Bill Fact Sheet: Fact Sheet on HB 538 (pdf)