Bill > HB4899

This bill proposes several amendments to the Texas Business & Commerce Code related to telephone solicitation and telemarketing practices. The bill expands the definition of "telephone solicitation" to include not just phone calls, but also text messages, graphic messages, and image transmissions initiated by sellers to induce purchases. It strengthens consumer protection by clarifying that violations of telemarketing and solicitation laws can be considered false, misleading, or deceptive acts under existing consumer protection statutes. The bill also explicitly states that a claimant who has previously recovered damages for a violation can still pursue additional legal action in future proceedings, effectively removing any potential limitations on recovery. Additionally, the bill allows both public and private rights of action to enforce these chapters, giving consumers more legal tools to address improper solicitation practices. These changes aim to provide broader protection for consumers against deceptive telemarketing and solicitation methods, with the amendments applying only to conduct occurring on or after the bill's effective date of September 1, 2025.

Business and Industry

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB4899