Texas House Bill HB3240

Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Caption

Relating to a surcharge imposed for the use of a debit card or stored value card; providing a civil penalty.

Impact

The legislation seeks to amend existing laws to make clear that consumers should not face surcharges when using debit or stored value cards for purchases. By integrating these rules into the Business & Commerce Code, the bill aims to consolidate consumer protection measures related to payment processing. It has implications for merchants, who must adjust their pricing strategies accordingly to comply with the new regulations. Failure to abide by these changes could result in civil penalties and actions by state attorneys to enforce compliance.

Summary

House Bill 3240 focuses on regulating the use of surcharges imposed by merchants on customers who choose to pay with debit cards or stored value cards. Specifically, the bill prohibits merchants from charging an additional fee on these payment methods compared to cash, checks, or credit cards. This is aimed at protecting consumers from unexpected costs when they opt for these forms of payment, ensuring equitable pricing across different methods of transaction.

Contention

Discussion around HB 3240 may include concerns from retailers who rely on surcharge fees as part of their business model. some may argue that prohibiting such fees could affect their profit margins and operational viability, especially in a competitive market. Advocates for the bill emphasize the necessity of consumer protection, arguing that no consumer should incur higher costs depending on their chosen payment method. The tension between business interests and consumer rights is likely to be a central issue as the bill moves through the legislative process.