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Texas lawmakers introduce workplace sexual assault, PTSD bills

Posted On: Mar. 8, 2023 10:21 AM CST

Texas capitol

Texas lawmakers on Tuesday introduced a bill that would address an employer's civil liability under the Texas Workers' Compensation Act for injuries suffered by a victim of sexual assault.

H.B. 3977 states that an employee who is a victim of a sexual assault may sue their employer if the injuries “arose from the employer’s negligence.”

Lawmakers also introduced H.B. 1776, which would make post-traumatic stress disorder compensable for certain first responders if it is proven by “preponderance of evidence” that an event or events caused the mental injury.

The provisions would apply to police officers, firefighters and emergency medical technicians.