H.B. No. 1609 introduces new provisions in the Texas Labor Code to protect volunteer emergency responders from employment discrimination. The bill establishes Chapter 24, which defines key terms such as "volunteer emergency responder," "employer," and "declared disaster." It prohibits employers from terminating or discriminating against employees who are volunteer emergency responders and are absent or late due to their response to a declared disaster. However, it limits the absence to a maximum of 14 days in a calendar year unless approved by the employer. The bill also requires employees to notify their employers of potential absences and provides guidelines for verification of participation in emergency response activities.

Additionally, the bill outlines the rights of employees whose employment is suspended or terminated in violation of these provisions, including reinstatement and compensation for lost wages. It allows employers to reduce wages or require the use of leave time for absences related to volunteer emergency response, while ensuring that employees retain their rights under existing laws. The bill also permits civil actions against employers for violations, with a one-year statute of limitations for filing such actions. The provisions of this act will take effect on September 1, 2025, and will apply only to causes of action that accrue on or after that date.

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