The bill, H.B. No. 270, introduces a new chapter, Chapter 100B, to the Civil Practice and Remedies Code, which establishes civil liability for individuals who submit discriminatory false reports to law enforcement agencies or emergency service providers. Specifically, it states that a person who files a false report with the intent to provoke action against someone based on bias or prejudice related to race, color, disability, religion, national origin, ancestry, age, gender, sexual orientation, or gender identity can be held liable for damages up to $250. Additionally, if the falsely accused individual wins the case, they are entitled to recover attorney's fees and costs associated with the legal action.
The provisions of this new chapter will only apply to causes of action that arise on or after the effective date of the Act, which is set for September 1, 2025. This legislation aims to deter discriminatory practices in reporting and provide a legal recourse for those wrongfully accused based on biased motivations.
Statutes affected: Introduced: ()