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

HB 5538 amends Texas Family Code §261.110(i) to establish a rebuttable presumption that an employer retaliated against an employee if adverse action (like termination or discrimination) occurs within 60 days of the employee making a good-faith report of suspected child abuse or neglect. This applies directly to mandatory reporters (e.g., teachers, healthcare workers) who report abuse under state law. The law shifts the burden to employers to prove the employment action was unrelated to the report, rather than requiring the employee to prove retaliation. The bill takes effect September 1, 2025.