Employer Mandate Compliance Texas

Summary

In Texas, employers cannot force employees to ignore government mandates. Violations can lead to penalties under the Texas Labor Code, reports to the Texas Workforce Commission, and potential civil lawsuits. Essential workers may be required to work during a shelter-in-place order. Employees can report non-compliance to the Texas Workforce Commission, file a complaint with OSHA, or consult a labor attorney for civil action.

Full Conversation

I'm wanting to know that in a right to work state can an employer force its employees to ignore a government mandated shelter in place?
Hello ****,
No, in general, employers cannot force employees to ignore government mandates. However, laws vary by state. Could you please confirm the state you're referring to?
Texas
Hello ****, in Texas:
- Employers can't force employees to ignore government mandates.
- If they do, employees may have rights under the Texas Labor Code.
- Essential workers can be required to work during a shelter-in-place order.
What are the repercussions of an employer doing said actions
In Texas, if an employer forces employees to ignore government mandates:
- They may face penalties under the Texas Labor Code.
- They could be reported to the Texas Workforce Commission.
- They may also face civil lawsuits from employees for unsafe work conditions.
What would be one way for the employees to get the employer to follow the mandate
In Texas, employees could:
- Report the employer to the Texas Workforce Commission.
- File a complaint with Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).
- Consult with a labor attorney for possible civil action.