Bill > SB1809

This bill creates a new criminal offense related to fraudulent activities involving gift cards in Texas. The bill defines key terms such as "gift card," "digital imprint," and "counterfeit gift card," and establishes specific illegal actions, including acquiring gift cards or redemption information without consent, altering gift card packaging, possessing or using counterfeit gift cards, and attempting to place unactivated gift cards in retail displays to mislead consumers. The severity of the offense depends on the number of gift cards involved, ranging from a state jail felony (for fewer than five gift cards) to a first-degree felony (for 50 or more gift cards). If a person possesses three or more gift cards or digital imprints, there is a legal presumption that they obtained them without consent. The bill also allows prosecution under this law or other applicable laws simultaneously. The legislation is designed to protect consumers and businesses from gift card fraud by creating clear legal definitions and penalties for various fraudulent activities related to gift cards. The bill is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Justice, Labor and Employment

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1809