Workers affected by family violence could take time off for medical care, counseling, or legal help
What it does
HB 1007 would create a new right to time off for an employee who is a victim of family violence or a violent felony offense, or whose child is. The time off could be used for medical attention, victim services, counseling, safety planning or relocation, and legal help, for no more than 30 work days in any 12-month period. You would have to give at least 24 hours advance written notice when that is possible, and an employer could ask for proof such as a police report, medical documentation, an active protective order, or a statement from a family violence center. An employer would not have to pay for the time off unless you use vacation, personal, sick, or compensatory leave you already have, but the employer would have to keep your health coverage during the leave.
What it means for your community
If you or your child are dealing with family violence, you would not have to choose between a job and the steps you need to stay safe. Your employer would have to post a sign about the new leave, and the Texas Workforce Commission would set the design of that sign. The bill would protect you from being fired for taking the leave if you gave notice or proof, but you would not gain seniority for the time you were out.
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