TX
Texas Senate Bill SB2638

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB2638

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

Caption

Relating to the misleading use of bot accounts; authorizing a civil penalty.

Impact

If enacted, this bill would amend the Business and Commerce Code and the Election Code to include the prohibition of misleading bot account usage. The law would not only cover misleading commercial transactions but extend to any attempts to affect election outcomes via bot accounts. Violators could face substantial civil penalties—up to $8,000 for repeated offenses—allowing for enforcement actions by the state attorney general. This legislation reflects growing concerns over misinformation and manipulation in both the marketplace and political arenas, particularly as online engagement grows in significance.

Summary

SB2638 introduces regulations addressing the misleading use of bot accounts on online services. The legislation defines a 'bot account' as an automated software-controlled account that impersonates human online activity, particularly in contexts like social media and online marketplaces. The bill aims to mitigate fraudulent activities stemming from such deceptive practices by imposing civil penalties for any individual or entity that misleads others into commercial transactions or political influence using bot accounts without clear disclosure that these accounts are automated. It emphasizes the importance of transparency in digital interactions.

Contention

Discussions around SB2638 may center on varying perspectives regarding its implications for digital freedom and commerce. Supporters argue that the bill is a necessary step to protect consumers and voters from manipulation, enhancing trust in online systems. Critics, however, might voice concerns about the potential for overregulation, the challenges of enforcement, and implications for free speech. It is vital to find a balance ensuring consumer protection while not stifling legitimate online interactions or discourse.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Election Code

  • Chapter 255. Regulating Political Advertising And Campaign Communications
    • Section: New Section

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB4917

Relating to the regulation of third-party data collection entities; providing a civil penalty and authorizing a fee.

TX SB2105

Relating to the registration of and certain other requirements relating to data brokers; providing a civil penalty and authorizing a fee.

TX HB4

Relating to the regulation of the collection, use, processing, and treatment of consumers' personal data by certain business entities; imposing a civil penalty.

TX HB1844

Relating to the regulation of the collection, use, processing, and treatment of consumers' personal data by certain business entities; imposing a civil penalty.

TX HB2165

Relating to requirements for subscription service contracts; providing a civil penalty.

TX HB4867

Relating to health care transparency, including advertising, identification, and notice requirements for certain health facilities and health professionals; authorizing administrative and civil penalties.

TX HB1012

Relating to the prohibition of certain discrimination; authorizing civil penalties.

TX SB110

Relating to the prohibition of certain discrimination; authorizing civil penalties.

TX SB928

Relating to the protection of personally identifiable student information and the use of covered information by an operator or educational entity; authorizing a civil and administrative penalty.

TX SB1544

Relating to the use of an individual's genetic data by certain genetic testing companies for commercial purposes; authorizing a civil penalty.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.