Bill > HB2695

This bill introduces a new provision to Texas law that increases criminal penalties for drug delivery offenses when a social media platform is used to facilitate the crime. Specifically, if a person is convicted of certain drug delivery offenses under Sections 481.112 through 481.122 of the Health and Safety Code, and it is proven that they used a social media platform (as defined in the Business & Commerce Code) to further the offense, their punishment will be enhanced. For most offenses, this means moving up to the next higher category of offense, with a special provision for first-degree felonies where the punishment is increased by five years and the maximum fine is doubled. The law will only apply to offenses committed on or after September 1, 2025, and will not be retroactively applied to crimes committed before that date. This legislation aims to deter drug dealers from using social media platforms as a tool for illegal drug distribution by imposing more severe legal consequences.

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https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2695