House Bill No. 319 introduces a new chapter to the Texas Labor Code, titled "Earned Paid Sick Leave," which requires certain employers to provide paid sick leave to their employees. Under this bill, employees will accrue paid sick leave at a rate of one hour for every 30 hours worked, with the option to carry over unused leave into the next calendar year. Employers must compensate employees at their normal hourly wage for sick leave taken and are required to maintain records of accrued and used sick leave for a minimum of three years. The bill also allows employees to use paid sick leave for personal health needs, family members, and situations involving family violence or harassment, while prohibiting employer retaliation against employees for utilizing their sick leave.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that any termination of employment is considered a break in service, with rehired employees starting to accrue paid sick leave anew unless rehired within 30 days or if the employer agrees to reinstate previously accrued hours. Transfers within the same employer do not count as a break in service, ensuring employees can access their accrued sick leave immediately. The Texas Workforce Commission will oversee the implementation of these regulations, including the creation of notice forms and public information dissemination about employee rights and employer obligations. The provisions will apply to employees hired on or after January 1, 2026, with a 90-day waiting period for those hired before this date to begin using their accrued sick leave. The act is set to take effect on October 1, 2025.

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