House Bill No. 1362 amends the Texas Labor Code to expand eligibility for unemployment compensation for individuals who leave their jobs due to sexual harassment. The bill specifies that individuals will not be disqualified from receiving benefits if they leave their workplace because of sexual harassment, provided they have reported the harassment to their employer or a law enforcement agency, or have filed a complaint with the Texas Commission or the federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. This new provision is added as a fifth condition under Section 207.046(a), alongside existing reasons for separation related to family violence, stalking, or caring for a terminally ill spouse.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that the changes will apply only to claims for unemployment benefits filed on or after the effective date of the Act, which is set for September 1, 2025. Claims filed before this date will be governed by the previous law. The inclusion of sexual harassment as a valid reason for leaving employment aims to provide greater protection and support for employees facing such circumstances.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Labor Code 207.046 (Labor Code 207)