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Bill

Bill

HB 5400

Relating to unlawful employment practices based on sexual harassment, including complaints and civil actions arising from those practices.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Jessica González

HB 5400 modifies Texas sexual harassment workplace complaint procedures and civil action provisions, affecting employee remedies and employer liability standards.

Left pending in subcommittee
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 5400

Legislative bill overview

HB 5400 modifies Texas employment law provisions related to sexual harassment in the workplace, specifically addressing how complaints are filed and how civil actions proceed. The bill appears to strengthen protections or clarify procedures for employees experiencing sexual harassment, though specific amendments aren't detailed in the available information.

Why is this important

Sexual harassment remains a significant workplace issue affecting employee safety, retention, and organizational liability. Changes to complaint procedures and civil action frameworks directly impact how quickly employees can seek remedies, what damages they may recover, and employers' legal obligations—influencing workplace culture across Texas.

Potential points of contention

  • Employer liability scope: Whether employers face expanded or reduced liability for harassment by managers versus coworkers, and standards for "knew or should have known"
  • Complaint procedures and timelines: Potential conflicts between internal HR reporting requirements and statutory filing deadlines that could favor either employees or employers
  • Damages and remedies: Disagreements over compensatory damages caps, punitive damages availability, and whether the bill aligns with or exceeds federal Title VII standards

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

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