Texas Labor and Employment Law

Avoid labor problems when you understand Texas work laws

By KB Gibson, Freelance Writer

Texas labor and employment law deals with improving the workplace for both small business owners and their employees. This is done through educating everyone about fair labor practices and how to stay in compliance. If you’re not in compliance, you’re at risk for a lawsuit or a big fat fine.

Texas labor laws, like those in other states, have adjusted to account for the increased technology as it affects the workplace. But they must still address issues of safety, overtime, ratios and lunch breaks.

When you understand Texas employment laws, you’ll be able to:

1. Make sure your business complies with Texas labor law

2. Enact fair hiring practices based on Texas employment law

3. Consult with Texas labor law firms when a dispute arises

Know Texas labor and employment law

It may feel like you have to be an attorney to understand labor and employment law in Texas, but all you really need is a person who knows what questions to ask. Hire human resources employees knowledgeable in Texas labor laws.
Try: Learn about the specific labor laws in Texas from the state's Texas Workforce website. Find out how the Fair Labor Standards Act affects you through the Department of Labor’s elaws advisor program.

Learn how Texas employment laws treat employment discrimination

Discrimination in employment remains a problem in Texas with claims filed for discrimination based on gender, race, age, religion, national origin and disability.
Try: Be certain you follow standards set by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and understand Texas equal employment opportunity policies.

Perform background checks in compliance with Texas labor law

It's common for business owners to want background checks on potential employees, and many businesses also continue with a practice of random drug screens. However, business owners must make certain that they don't do anything to violate privacy rights.
Try: Learn what you can and cannot do when getting Texas background checks on potential employees. The Privacy Rights Clearinghouse provides more information about what qualifies as privacy rights.

Know how Texas labor laws address immigration

Sharing a common border with Mexico keeps immigration a much-discussed topic in Texas work laws. Look at both labor and employment standards under federal and state immigration laws to make sure you're in compliance.
Try: See what questions people ask about Texas immigration in the Labor Law Talk forum or ask your own questions. Contact the Department of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services to find out if you can hire a specific immigrant. This is done through a process called a I-9 check.

Consider giving regular performance reviews that tie into wage increases.
Display Texas labor law posters in areas that employees frequent.