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Bill

SB 2713

Relating to preventing discrimination in membership in a professional or trade association.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Adam Hinojosa and 1 co-sponsor

Texas bill bars professional and trade associations from discriminating against members based on protected characteristics including race, religion, sex, disability, and veteran status.

Left pending in committee
#business&commerce--general(i0050) #civilremedies&liabilities(i0065) #discrimination(s0052)
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Bill Summary · SB 2713

Legislative bill overview

SB 2713 prohibits professional and trade associations in Texas from discriminating against members or applicants based on protected characteristics. The bill establishes that membership decisions and association benefits must be allocated without regard to factors like race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or veteran status.

Why is this important

Professional associations control access to networking, credentials, industry standards, and economic opportunities that can significantly impact career advancement and earning potential. Preventing discriminatory practices in these organizations ensures broader workforce participation and equal opportunity regardless of personal characteristics.

Potential points of contention

  • Definitional scope: Unclear whether all associations are covered or only those with significant gatekeeping power, potentially affecting how broadly the law applies
  • Balancing associational freedom: Questions about whether mandatory non-discrimination requirements conflict with private organizations' autonomy to set membership standards
  • Enforcement mechanisms: The bill's recent committee status suggests debate over who enforces violations, complaint procedures, and remedies for discriminated members

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

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