H.B. No. 5135, titled the Texas Antidiscrimination Act, aims to prohibit discrimination by governmental entities based on immutable characteristics such as race, sex, color, and ethnicity. The bill introduces Chapter 621 to the Government Code, which outlines the legislative findings and purpose of the act, emphasizing the importance of equal rights as enshrined in the Texas Constitution. It defines terms such as "discriminatory office" and "diversity, equity, and inclusion," and establishes that governmental entities cannot engage in practices that promote differential treatment or preferential treatment based on these characteristics.

The bill also sets forth specific prohibitions against establishing discriminatory offices, hiring practices that favor certain groups, and spending on diversity programs that do not comply with state and federal laws. It mandates that governmental entities adopt policies to discipline employees who violate these provisions and outlines enforcement mechanisms, including the ability for individuals to file complaints with the attorney general. If a political subdivision is found to be noncompliant, it may face penalties, including the withholding of certain tax revenues until compliance is restored. The act is set to take effect immediately upon receiving a two-thirds vote or on September 1, 2025, if that threshold is not met.

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