Workers’ compensation is a state-regulated insurance program that provides covered employees with income and medical benefits if they sustain a work-related injury or illness.  Texas private employers can choose whether or not to provide workers’ compensation insurance coverage for their employees.  In most cases, your employer is required to notify you whether or not they provide coverage.

Workers’ compensation pays your medical bills and replaces a portion of your lost wages if: you are injured at work or have a work-related illness; and your employer has workers’ compensation insurance coverage under the Texas Workers’ Compensation Act, Title 5, Subtitle A, Labor Code. 

Source: Texas Department of Insurance
http://www.tdi.texas.gov