The number and scope of laws regulating employment has grown steadily over the past
several decades. While some areas of labor and employment law are governed exclusively by
federal law, others are covered by supplemental (or overlapping) state laws, and a handful are
exclusively of state or even local concern.
This booklet provides a basic overview of Texas employment laws. It is organized into
four primary sections: 1) the employment relationship; 2) wages and hours; 3) employment
discrimination; and 4) workplace safety. Citations to the Texas Labor Code are provided for each
law discussed, if applicable.