If you are a Texas worker who has suffered employment discrimination, you may be able to pursue an employment discrimination claim against your employer. There are many kinds of workplace discrimination, and there are many reasons for discrimination. Some of the more common reasons for discrimination include sex, age, gender identity, race, creed, religion, or other factors. There are federal laws that protect workers across the country, but most states have enacted additional acts to offer workers added protection. Here is a closer look at employment discrimination laws in Texas.
What Kind of Discrimination Laws are in Place in Texas?
The Texas Commission on Human Rights Act (TCHRA) is a state enacted copy of the federal discrimination laws – Title VII. Much like the federal laws, the TCHRA protects employees and not independent contractors. The TCHRA protects workers from being discriminated against because of color, race, disability, religion, national origin, genetic information, sex, or age. Federal laws – specifically Title VII – also offers additional Texas workplace discrimination protection to workers.
Who is Protected By Federal and State Laws in Texas?
The federal laws are overseen by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) and apply to employers who have 15 or more employees unless it is an age-related complaint and those apply to employers with 20 or more workers. Texas state laws apply to employers who have 15 or more workers. The Texas Workforce Commission, Civil Rights Division enforces the state antidiscrimination laws. There are federal laws that offer additional protection, and those laws are enforced by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).
What Employers are Covered by Discrimination Laws in Texas?
Texas state workplace discrimination laws in most situations apply to employers who have 15 or more employees. Most federal laws apply to employers who have 15 or more workers, but if it involves age, it applies to employers who have 20 or more employees. To file a state complaint, you contact the Texas Workforce Commission, Civil Rights Division. For a federal violation, file a claim with the EEOC.
Which State Agencies Regulate Workplace Harassment Laws in Texas?
In Texas, you can file a claim with the Texas Workforce Commission, Civil Rights Division. You can go to the Civil Rights Division website to get your claim underway or call (512) 463-2642 or (888) 452-4778 . To file a claim with the EEOC, you can visit www.eeoc.gov to find the nearest field office or to start an online claim. You can also call (800) 669-4000 to speak with a representative and to start the claims process. Just like any other kind of claim, a workplace discrimination case requires supporting evidence and documentation for it to be successful.
How Do I File A Discrimination Claim in Texas?
If you are ready to pursue a workplace discrimination claim in Texas, you should gather any supporting evidence and documentation. You should notify your employer about any infractions and if the issue is not resolved, you will need to file a claim with the appropriate agency. You can file a claim with the Texas Workforce Commission, Civil Rights Division. You can go to the Civil Rights Division website to get your claim underway or call (512) 463-2642 or (888) 452-4778 . To file a claim with the EEOC, you can visit www.eeoc.gov to find the nearest field office or to start an online claim. You can also call (800) 669-4000 to speak with a representative and to start the claims process.
How Do I Get Help Filing A Discrimination Claim in Texas?
If you have experienced workplace discrimination in Texas, you could benefit from hiring an experienced employment law attorney. An employment law attorney will be familiar with the applicable state and federal laws and will be able to determine the best way to proceed with an employment law claim against your place of employment if discrimination has taken place. You want to make sure you follow the proper procedures with your claim.
When you talk with a workplace discrimination lawyer, be sure to talk about payment preferences. Some lawyers will take the case on a contingency basis while others require a retainer to be paid upfront and will charge an hourly rate. To share the details of your Texas workplace discrimination case with an attorney, complete the Free Case Evaluation Form. Make sure to share your contact information, so you can get a response from the law practice and determine the best way to proceed with your Texas workplace discrimination claim.
