Relating to the contents of a receipt issued for payment of a good or service; providing a civil penalty.
If enacted, HB521 will impact how businesses manage and issue receipts, compelling them to adapt their practices to comply with the new regulation. The law mandates that companies must implement measures to ensure that driver's license and social security numbers are not included in the receipt format. Violations of this regulation would expose businesses to civil penalties of up to $500 for each calendar month of non-compliance, although the penalties are capped at one violation per month. This provision may encourage businesses to review their data handling processes extensively.
House Bill 521 seeks to amend the Business & Commerce Code by prohibiting the printing of an individual's driver's license or social security number on any receipt or document evidencing a payment for goods or services. This legislative proposal aims to enhance consumer privacy and protect individuals from potential identity theft. By preventing sensitive information from being printed on receipts, the bill addresses a growing concern regarding personal data security in commercial transactions.
While the bill appears to have general support for its intent to protect consumer information, potential points of contention may arise regarding the implementation and enforcement of the new requirement. Concerns over the financial burden placed on businesses, particularly small enterprises that may need to upgrade receipt printing systems, could lead to debates about the practicality and economic impact of the legislation. Additionally, ensuring compliance across a variety of business types poses challenges that might be highlighted by stakeholders during discussions.