Texas has enacted legislation (House Bill 2127), which preempts local jurisdictions from adopting and enforcing laws related to conduct that is governed by the state’s labor code, among other things. As such, the law blocks the Austin, Dallas and San Antonio paid sick leave ordinances. House Bill 2127 takes effect on Sept. 1, 2023.
The details
As background, the cities of Austin, Dallas and San Antonio, Texas, had attempted to enact ordinances that would require employers to provide paid sick leave to covered employees.
Texas has enacted legislation (House Bill 2127), which overrides certain municipal and county regulations, including the Austin, Dallas and San Antonio paid sick leave ordinances. House Bill 2127 takes effect Sept. 1, 2023.
Under House Bill 2127:
- A municipality or county may not adopt, enforce, or maintain an ordinance, order or rule regulating conduct in a field of regulation that is occupied by a provision of this code, unless expressly authorized by another law.
- An ordinance, order or rule that violates House Bill 2127 is void and unenforceable.
Next steps
The law, among other things, effectively prohibits the Austin, Dallas and San Antonio paid sick leave ordinances from taking effect. It may impact other local workplace laws as well. Employers should:
- Review their policies, forms, practices, and supervisor trainings.
- Watch for developments in this area as the law is challenged.
Please contact your ADP® Service Representative with any questions.
Thank you,
ADP