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HB 317

Relating to an employee's right to time off from work if the employee experiences a reproductive loss.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Mary González and 1 co-sponsor

Texas bill grants workers time off and job protection after miscarriage, stillbirth, or ectopic pregnancy to address health and equity gaps.

Referred to s/c on Workforce by Speaker
#adoption(s0101) #employeebenefits&leave(s0452) #family&medicalleave(s0419) #health--otherdiseases&medicalconditions(i0383) #labor--general(i0500) #labor--managementrelations(i0465) #pregnancy&childbirth(s0294) #workforcecommission #texas(v0470)
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Bill Summary · HB 317

Legislative bill overview

HB 317 would establish an employee's legal right to take time off from work following a reproductive loss, including miscarriage, stillbirth, or ectopic pregnancy. The bill aims to provide job protection and paid or unpaid leave for employees experiencing these events without fear of retaliation or termination.

Why is this important

Reproductive losses are common medical events affecting millions of workers, yet most U.S. states lack explicit legal protections for time off. This bill addresses a gap where employees may face pressure to work immediately after physically and emotionally traumatic experiences, potentially affecting health outcomes and workplace equity.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and burden on employers: Business groups may argue that mandated leave creates operational challenges and costs, particularly for small employers, and question whether this should be covered by existing sick leave policies
  • Definition and verification concerns: Legislators may debate how to define "reproductive loss," whether to include early miscarriages, and how to verify claims while respecting privacy without intrusive medical documentation
  • Paid vs. unpaid leave: Disagreement likely over whether leave should be paid (expanding employer costs) or unpaid (limiting practical benefit for lower-wage workers), and duration of protection

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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