Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Texas House Bill HB411

Voted on by House
 
Out of Senate Committee
 
Voted on by Senate
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to requiring photo identification for certain purchases paid with a credit card or debit card.

Impact

The implementation of HB 411 is expected to significantly affect the retail and service sectors by mandating stricter identity verification protocols. By requiring photo identification for higher transactions, proponents believe that it will reduce the risk of fraudulent purchases and thus protect both merchants and consumers. However, these measures could create additional burdens for small businesses that may not have the infrastructure to efficiently implement these requirements, potentially leading to longer transaction times and customer inconvenience.

Summary

House Bill 411 introduces new requirements for merchants regarding the acceptance of credit and debit cards for transactions exceeding $200. Under this bill, merchants must require customers to present photo identification to verify their identity as the cardholder during face-to-face transactions. This legislative measure aims to enhance security and prevent identity theft associated with electronic payment methods, particularly for more substantial purchases that may invite fraudulent activity.

Contention

While supporters argue that increasing verification measures is essential for safeguarding against fraud, opponents raise concerns about the practicality and implications of the bill. Critics express that the mandate could lead to customer frustration and potentially discriminate against certain groups of individuals who may not have suitable identification readily available. Further, some industry representatives have pointed out that existing security measures, such as requiring a PIN or zip code verification, may already provide sufficient safeguards against unauthorized use.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX SB761

Relating to photo identification for certain debit or credit card transactions.

TX HB2400

Relating to photo identification for certain debit or credit card transactions.

TX HB2405

Relating to photo identification for certain debit or credit card transactions.

TX HB2837

Relating to prohibiting a person or entity from surveilling, reporting, or tracking the purchase of firearms, ammunition, and accessories through the use of certain merchant category codes; imposing a civil penalty.

TX SB116

Relating to requiring a voter to present proof of identification.

TX HB3395

Relating to the charging of swipe fees on certain electronic payment transactions; authorizing a civil penalty.

TX SB1541

Relating to the charging of swipe fees on certain electronic payment transactions; authorizing a civil penalty.

TX SB895

Relating to the regulation of money services businesses; creating a criminal offense; creating administrative penalties; authorizing the imposition of a fee.

TX HB1477

Relating to the issuance and acceptance of a high school student identification card and certain other forms of identification as identification for voting.

TX HB5011

Relating to amendments to the Uniform Commercial Code, including amendments concerning certain intangible assets and the perfection of security interests in those assets.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.