Texas House Bill HB293

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

• Filed: 11/14/16

Caption

Relating to the distribution, sale, or offer for sale of a mislabeled abusable synthetic substance through the Internet.

Impact

If enacted, HB 293 would enhance state regulatory power concerning the sale of synthetic substances labeled incorrectly, increasing accountability for sellers using online platforms. The bill is aimed at combating the proliferation of synthetic drugs sold online, which can often be mislabeled or misrepresented, leading to public health risks. This amendment signifies a crucial step in regulating an evolving marketplace that increasingly moves to the Internet. By tightening the definitions and legal implications around these substances, the bill intends to address public safety concerns more effectively.

Summary

House Bill 293 addresses the distribution, sale, or offering for sale of mislabeled abusable synthetic substances through the Internet. The primary focus of the bill is to amend Section 484.001(2) of the Health and Safety Code, expanding the definition of 'business' to include online activities related to these substances. This means that entities involved in the sale of such products will be held accountable under the new provisions of state law that the bill seeks to establish.

Contention

Notably, discussions surrounding HB 293 may highlight concerns about balancing regulation with the rights of businesses to operate freely online. Advocates for the bill argue that it is essential in protecting consumers from potentially harmful substances, while opponents may express that such regulations could overly restrict legitimate business activities. There may be debates about the enforcement mechanisms for this bill and the clarity of what constitutes a 'mislabeled' abusable substance, which could impact different stakeholders in the commerce chain.