Bill > HB783

This bill establishes a new legal framework in Texas for addressing online impersonation, creating civil liability for individuals who misuse another person's identity on social media platforms. Specifically, a person can be held legally responsible if they knowingly create a false online identity that is virtually indistinguishable from a real person, with the intent to harm, defraud, intimidate, or threaten the victim. The bill defines online impersonation as using someone's name, voice, signature, or likeness on a social media platform without their consent (or the consent of a parent/guardian if the person is a minor). Importantly, the law includes an exception for satirical or parody content and does not apply to law enforcement investigations. If a victim successfully sues under this law, they can be awarded actual damages (including costs for counseling or addressing identity theft), with a minimum of $500 in exemplary damages, and the court will also award attorney's fees. The bill allows courts to issue injunctions to prevent further impersonation, and this new cause of action is cumulative, meaning it can be used alongside other existing legal remedies. The law is set to take effect on September 1, 2025, and specifically does not impose liability on interactive computer services for content provided by other users.

Government Affairs, Justice

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB783