HB5538 - Relating to the antiretaliation standard for mandatory reports of suspected abuse or neglect of a minor.

      By: Howard H.B. No. 5538       A BILL TO BE ENTITLED   AN ACT   relating to the antiretaliation standard for mandatory reports of   suspected abuse or neglect of a minor.          BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS:          SECTION 1.  Section 261.110(i), Texas Family Code, is   amended to read as follows:          (i)  A plaintiff suing under this section has the burden of   proof, to prove their report under Subsection (b)(1) or initiation   of or cooperation with an investigation under Subsection (b)(2) was   a motivating factor in their employer's decision to suspend,   terminate, discriminate, or take some other adverse employment   action against the plaintiff. There [ except that there ] is a   rebuttable presumption that the plaintiff's employment was   suspended or terminated or that the plaintiff was otherwise   discriminated against for reporting abuse or neglect if the   suspension, termination, or discrimination occurs before the 61st   day after the date on which the person made a report in good faith.          SECTION 2.  This Act takes effect September 1, 2025.