TX HB841

Requires private employers in Texas to provide paid sick leave that accrues at 1 hour per 30 hours worked, with annual caps of 64 hours for employers with 15+ employees and 48 hours for smaller employers

Employees may use accrued sick leave for their own illness or injury, to care for sick family members, for medical appointments, or for needs related to family violence, sexual assault, or stalking

Excludes state agencies, political subdivisions, federal agencies, unpaid volunteers, and independent contractors from coverage; applies to employees working at least 80 hours per calendar year

Prohibits employer retaliation against employees who use sick leave or file complaints, with administrative penalties of $500 per retaliation violation and up to $100 for other violations

Takes effect January 1, 2027, with the Texas Workforce Commission required to adopt implementing rules by September 1, 2026; employees hired before the effective date may begin using accrued leave 90 days after January 1, 2027