Texas Bill Would Guarantee Paid Sick Leave for Workers

HB 319 is a Texas state bill that would require employers across the state to provide paid sick leave to their workers. Sponsored by Ron Reynolds, this policy aims to give employees time off when they are sick or need to care for family members—without losing their paycheck. Under the bill, workers would earn one hour of paid sick leave for every 30 hours they work. This means that a full-time worker putting in 40 hours per week would earn roughly one and a third hours of sick leave per week. The law would apply to most employers in Texas, though some exemptions exist for federal government agencies and certain rail workers. The bill covers many important reasons for taking paid sick leave. Employees could use these hours if they are sick, need medical care, or need to care for a family member who is ill. The bill also includes provisions for employees dealing with family violence, harassment, sexual assault, or stalking. These protections help workers address serious safety and health situations without fear of losing their job or income. The bill defines family members broadly to include spouses, children, parents, grandparents, siblings, and other relatives living in the household or for whom the employee provides care. This wide definition recognizes that our community members have many family relationships and caregiving responsibilities beyond just children and parents. HB 319 has been introduced in the Texas Legislature and is ready for further action. If passed, this policy could give Texas workers important protections for their health and family responsibilities while keeping them financially stable.