State of Texas Protections Against

Discrimination and Sexual Harassment

         Chapter 21 of the Texas Labor Code provides protection to employees.  If an employer discriminates against an employee because of a protected characteristic of the employee, the employee can bring an action against the employer under this chapter.  In general, an employer cannot discriminate against an employee based on the employee’s gender, race, national origin, age, religion, or disability. 

         If you believe that an employer has discriminated against you because of your gender, race, national origin, age, religion, or disability, you MUST file a charge of discrimination with the Texas Workforce Commission within 180 days of the wrongful conduct.  If you do not, you will be barred from bringing a lawsuit.

         Employers with less than 15 employees are not subject to Chapter 21 of the Texas Labor Code.  Additionally, damage awards available to employees are based on the size of the employer.