Know Your Rights: State and Federal Laws That Protect You in the Workplace
Every worker in Texas—whether hourly, salaried, part-time, or remote—deserves a fair and safe workplace. Thankfully, multiple state and federal laws protect employees from harassment, discrimination, unsafe conditions, and wrongful termination. Knowing your rights is the first step toward protecting them.
Federal Laws That Protect Employees
1. Title VII of the Civil Rights Act
Protects employees from discrimination based on:
-
Race
-
Color
-
Religion
-
Sex
-
National origin
2. Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
Employers must make reasonable accommodations for employees with disabilities.
3. Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
Eligible workers can take up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave for family or medical reasons without fear of losing their job.
4. Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA)
Establishes:
-
Minimum wage laws
-
Overtime pay eligibility
-
Child labor standards
Texas Workplace Laws
Texas is a “right-to-work” and “at-will employment” state, which means:
-
Employees can be fired without cause—but not for illegal reasons.
-
Workers can choose whether to join a union.
Texas Labor Code also offers:
-
Protections against workplace retaliation
-
The right to file wage claims
-
Whistleblower protections for public employees
What to Do If Your Rights Are Violated
If you believe your rights have been violated:
-
Document everything – emails, incidents, conversations.
-
Report internally to HR or a supervisor.
-
File a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or Texas Workforce Commission.
-
Consult an employment lawyer for legal advice.
Examples of Common Workplace Violations
-
Sexual harassment or inappropriate behavior
-
Wage theft or unpaid overtime
-
Discrimination based on pregnancy, disability, or age
-
Retaliation for reporting misconduct or injuries
Why Legal Help Matters
An experienced employment lawyer can help:
-
Evaluate your claim
-
Communicate with your employer
-
File a lawsuit or negotiate a settlement
Conclusion
Workplace laws exist to ensure fairness and safety—but they only work if you know them. If you’ve been mistreated at work in Texas, don’t stay silent. Know your rights, and take action with the right legal support.