Bill > SB2373

This bill establishes legal protections against financial exploitation using artificially generated media (like deepfakes) or phishing communications in Texas. The legislation creates both civil and criminal mechanisms to address these emerging forms of digital fraud. In civil proceedings, individuals can sue for damages if they are victims of knowingly disseminated artificially generated media or phishing communications intended to cause financial harm, with potential compensation including actual damages, mental anguish costs, and the defendant's profits. The bill defines key terms like "artificial intelligence" as machine-based systems that can make predictive decisions and "artificially generated media" as content created or modified using AI with intent to deceive. Criminally, the bill establishes a graduated penalty structure for financial abuse using these technologies, ranging from a Class B misdemeanor for property value under $100 to a first-degree felony for property valued at $150,000 or more. The legislation also provides important privacy protections, allowing victims to use confidential identities in legal proceedings and limiting who can access their true identifying information. Notably, the bill explicitly excludes internet service providers, telecommunications services, and licensed broadcast stations from liability for content provided by third parties. The law is set to take effect on September 1, 2025, and will apply to causes of action arising on or after that date.

Government Affairs, Justice

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB2373