What does TCHR mean in COMMISSIONS

The Texas Commission on Human Rights (TCHR) enforces state laws and city ordinances that make it illegal to discriminate in Texas based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age (40 and over), disability or genetic information. TCHR also administers the Texas Equal Accommodation Law which makes it illegal to refuse access to accommodations on the basis of a person’s disability.

Complaints can be filed either electronically through TCHR's website or by completing and submitting a paper complaint form by mail or fax. The paperwork focused on obtaining detailed information about the filing party and a description of how their rights were violated. Once received, the complaint will go through an intake process which assigns a formal number and determines whether or not it meets eligibility requirements for investigation.

The Texas Commission on Human Rights protects individuals from discrimination in employment, housing, public accommodation and education based upon race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age (40 and older), disability or genetic information.

Yes. Generally complaints must be filed with TCHR within 180 days after they happen; however the statute allows for some exceptions that may extend this deadline up to two years if a pattern or practice violation is alleged. It is important to note that cases can only move forward if they are filed timely so it is crucial to contact TCHR as soon as possible after your incident occurs.

Yes. If you disagree with any decision made regarding your case before it goes into investigation then you have 20 days from when you receive notification of the decision in order to file an appeal with the Office of Administrative Hearings (OAH). A hearing officer will review your case and decide whether your appeal should be granted or denied which may result in further action being taken against the defendant such as reinstatement of benefits or possible fines for violating an individual’s civil rights.

Yes. After receiving initial paperwork from both sides involved in a dispute, mediation services are offered in order to try and resolve issues without having to go through full legal proceedings. Mediation sessions typically consist of both parties sitting down together with an impartial mediator present who has been previously trained by The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS). Both sides can discuss their positions openly without fear of legal repercussions.

Remedies provided for violations of civil rights under The Texas Commission on Human Rights may include but are not limited to compensatory damages which are designed to make whole those who have been affected by discriminatory practices as well as emotional distress damages resulting from mental anguish caused directly due to discrimination.

Successful cases before TCHR can result in various forms of compensation including but not limited lost wages/benefits (backpay), future wages/benefits (front pay) or other forms of equitable relief such as posting changes at work locations announcing employer policy changes prohibiting discriminatory activity.

Representation is not mandatory but recommended in many cases involving complex claims since tribunal hearings involve witnesses giving evidence under oath and legally binding decisions could potentially follow favorable outcomes for claimants . You may want consult qualified professionals who specialize in employment law matters before taking action against employers so that all necessary steps are taken towards protecting your interests.