Bill > SB3027

This bill expands the jurisdiction of district and county attorneys to prosecute certain consumer protection violations in Texas. Specifically, the bill allows district and county attorneys to take legal action under the same sections previously reserved for the consumer protection division of the Attorney General's office, with some important conditions. Before initiating an action, a district or county attorney must provide prior written notice to the consumer protection division and wait 90 days, during which time the division can indicate it is actively investigating the matter. If the division does not intend to pursue the case, the local attorney can proceed. For violations related to a specific section (17.46(b)(28)), three-fourths of any civil penalties awarded will be paid to the county where the court is located. The bill also requires district and county attorneys to assist the consumer protection division when requested and to provide a full report on any actions they independently pursue. There are some restrictions, such as a prohibition on taking action against licensed insurers without first receiving a request from the State Board of Insurance. The changes will only apply to causes of action that accrue on or after the bill's effective date, which will be immediately if it receives a two-thirds vote in the Texas Legislature, or September 1, 2025, if it does not.

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB3027