Published: 09-26-08
As Texans rebuild their lives following the devastation of Hurricane Ike the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) reminds both employers and workers of several important issues.
Chapter 22 of the Texas Labor Code protects workers both during and after natural disasters. The chapter ensures jobs still will be available when workers who have evacuated under mandatory orders return home. Employers that violate this restriction are liable for any loss of wages or employer-provided benefits and must reinstate the employee to the same or equivalent position. The chapter does contain an exception to the prohibition in the case of emergency services personnel and those who are necessary to provide for the safety and well-being of the general public.
Those with questions about this law may contact the TWC Office of General Counsel at (512) 463-7902.
Workers who lost work and wages due to Hurricane Ike may be eligible for Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA). The agency has expanded Tele-Center staffing and hours to serve disaster-affected workers. Claimants may call Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. and this Saturday September 27 2008 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. CDT.
Austin local: (512) 340-4300
Dallas local: (972) 339-6200
El Paso local: (915) 832-6400
Fort Worth local: (817) 420-1600
Houston local: (281) 983-1100
McAllen local: (956) 984-4700
San Antonio local: (210) 258-6600
Others call toll free: (800) 939-6631
To file for disaster-related unemployment benefits by Wednesday October 15 2008 individuals also may log on to http://www.texasworkforce.org. Claimants also may e-mail their names and phone numbers to UIHelp@twc.state.tx.us and claims takers will call them back. Reemployment services are available through Texas Workforce Centers or by accessing http://www.WorkInTexas.com for information.
Texas employers that halted operations during and after Hurricane Ike and therefore were not able to pay wages are encouraged to inform workers of potential eligibility for DUA assistance. Business tax accounts will not be charged for any disaster claims paid. Employers with temporary layoffs may provide separation dates to TWC by calling
1-866-367-1322. Employers also may send information to hurricaneike.employer@twc.state.tx.us.
Please feel free to contact us at any of the above phone numbers or e-mail addresses for any questions that you may have. TWC is here to help as our great state rebuilds after Hurricane Ike.
Tom Pauken
Chairman
Texas Workforce Commission
Ronny Congleton
Commissioner
Representing Labor
Texas Workforce Commission
Andres Alcantar
Commissioner Representing
the Public
Texas Workforce Commission
