Texas Bill May Limit NAR’s Hate Speech Policy

A new bill under review in the Texas Senate may soon limit how professional associations, including the National Association of Realtors (NAR), handle violations of their codes of conduct—especially those related to hate speech.

What Is Senate Bill 2713?

Senate Bill 2713, introduced by Senator Mayes Middleton (R-Galveston), would prevent trade or professional organizations from denying or revoking membership based on someone’s legally protected speech or assembly—regardless of the organization’s internal rules.

The bill also reinforces that groups cannot exclude someone based on race, religion, sex, disability, or other protected characteristics, and allows individuals to take legal action (including seeking damages and attorney fees) if they believe their rights have been violated.

How This Affects NAR and Realtors in Texas

The National Association of Realtors currently enforces a Code of Ethics that includes Standard of Practice 10-5. This standard prohibits Realtors from using hate speech, epithets, or slurs based on race, ethnicity, religion, and other protected categories, even outside of work settings (such as on social media).

If SB 2713 becomes law, NAR’s ability to enforce this standard in Texas could be weakened. That means Realtors might no longer face disciplinary action from the association solely for certain speech-related violations, depending on how the bill is interpreted and enforced.

Supporters and Opponents

At a recent committee hearing, several individuals who had been previously investigated or penalized under NAR’s ethics rules spoke in favor of the bill, saying they felt they were punished for expressing personal or political beliefs.

The Texas Association of Realtors has taken a neutral stance on the legislation, and the bill is still pending in the Senate committee.

What Happens Next?

If passed, the bill would go into effect on September 1, 2025. Its impact could extend beyond real estate to other professional industries with similar codes of conduct.

What This Means for Clients

For clients, this legislation does not change existing laws about housing discrimination. Realtors are still bound by the federal Fair Housing Act, which prohibits discrimination in the sale or rental of housing.

However, the bill may shift how Realtor associations handle internal discipline, particularly when it comes to speech or conduct outside of direct client interactions.