March 2026 Labor Law Updates for Houston, Texas
March 2026 brought several notable labor and employment law developments affecting Texas employers, employees, and HR professionals. This roundup from HKM Employment Attorneys highlights significant court rulings, enforcement actions, and workplace-related legal developments relevant to Texas labor law and workplace rights.
March 2026 demonstrated how Texas continues to be a major battleground for labor and employment law issues, from disability accommodation claims to non-compete enforcement and federal regulatory challenges. Employees and employers alike should stay informed as Texas workplace law continues to evolve.
If you have questions about Texas labor law, workplace rights, discrimination, retaliation, severance, or employment disputes, contact HKM Employment Attorneys at https://hkm.com for experienced legal guidance.
EEOC v. Kroger Texas, L.P. — Federal Disability Discrimination Lawsuit
Date: March 31, 2026
Summary:
The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) filed a lawsuit against Kroger alleging disability discrimination at a Houston-area store. According to the complaint, a longtime cashier with a mobility impairment had been allowed to use a walker and sit periodically while working for several years. The EEOC alleges a new manager revoked those accommodations, denied additional leave or accommodations, and the employee was later terminated.
Implications:
This case is an important reminder that Texas employers must engage in the interactive process under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and carefully evaluate reasonable accommodation requests. Removing an accommodation that has already proven effective can create substantial legal risk.
Galderma Laboratories, L.P. v. Brenner — Texas Non-Compete Enforcement Decision
Date: March 12, 2026 (reported March 26, 2026)
Summary:
The Texas Business Court reportedly granted a temporary injunction enforcing restrictive covenant obligations against a departing executive in Galderma Laboratories, L.P. v. Brenner. The case focused on confidentiality and non-compete provisions tied to executive employment.
Implications:
Texas remains a comparatively employer-friendly state for enforcing properly drafted non-compete agreements. Employers should ensure restrictive covenants are supported by legitimate business interests and tailored in scope, while employees should understand post-employment obligations before changing jobs.
EEOC Harassment Guidance Rescission Following Texas Litigation — Federal Agency Development
Date: March 12, 2026 (public reporting)
Summary:
Public reporting in March highlighted that the EEOC rescinded portions of its 2024 workplace harassment guidance after litigation that included a challenge brought by Texas in federal court. The dispute involved interpretations of Title VII protections and sex-based harassment standards.
Implications:
Although federal anti-harassment laws remain in force, Texas employers should closely monitor changing EEOC enforcement priorities and continue maintaining strong anti-harassment policies, training, and complaint procedures.
Ongoing Impact of Texas Federal Court Challenges to Wage Rules — Compliance Reminder
Date: March 2026
Summary:
March commentary continued to note the national significance of prior Texas federal court rulings that blocked or vacated federal overtime salary-threshold changes issued by the U.S. Department of Labor. Texas courts remain a key venue for challenges to federal labor regulations.
Implications:
Texas employers should remain cautious when adjusting exempt classifications or compensation structures. Federal wage-and-hour rules can change quickly through litigation, making regular legal review essential.
Conclusion: Looking Back on Texas’ Labor Law Updates from March 2026
With Texas courts increasingly addressing wage-and-hour disputes, discrimination, and contract enforcement, you don’t have to stay stuck in uncertainty. At HKM Employment Attorneys in Houston, our seasoned attorneys—such as Alvin Adjei and Taylor Jones—are deeply versed in discrimination, hostile work environments, contractual breaches, wage theft, whistleblower claims, and more. Our Houston team combines responsive communication, national recognition, and locally-rooted advocacy to help local employees navigate complex workplace issues. If recent case rulings hit close to your experience, reach out to our Houston office and let us help you assert your rights and pursue meaningful justice.
