H.B. No. 949 introduces a new chapter to the Texas Labor Code, specifically Chapter 25, which focuses on the privacy of personal health information for employees. The bill establishes that employees have the right to keep their personal health information private and are not obligated to disclose it to their employers unless required by state or federal law. Additionally, it prohibits employers from taking adverse employment actions or discriminating against employees who choose to exercise this right. The bill also outlines the definitions of "Commission," "Employee," and "Employer" to clarify the terms used within the chapter.

Furthermore, the bill provides a mechanism for enforcement, allowing employees who believe their rights have been violated to file a complaint with the Texas Workforce Commission. Employers found in violation of this privacy right may face a civil penalty of $50,000 for each infraction, with penalties collected by the attorney general and deposited into the general revenue fund. The provisions of this chapter will apply only to adverse employment practices occurring on or after the effective date of the Act, which is set for September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: ()