S.B. No. 140 amends the Business & Commerce Code to enhance the regulation of solicitation-related communications, specifically focusing on telephone solicitations. The bill introduces a new definition for "telephone call" and expands the definition of "telephone solicitation" to include various forms of communication initiated by sellers, such as text messages and graphic transmissions. Additionally, it emphasizes the need for liberal construction of the law to protect individuals and the public from false, misleading, or deceptive practices in the telephone solicitation and telemarketing sectors.

The bill also establishes that violations of the solicitation regulations are considered deceptive trade practices, allowing for public or private remedies to enforce these provisions. Importantly, it stipulates that a claimant's previous recoveries under private actions for violations will not limit their ability to seek recovery in future legal proceedings. The changes will take effect on September 1, 2025, and apply only to conduct occurring after that date.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Commerce Code 302.001 (Commerce Code 302)
Senate Committee Report: Commerce Code 302.001 (Commerce Code 302)
Engrossed: Commerce Code 302.001 (Commerce Code 302)
House Committee Report: Commerce Code 302.001, Commerce Code 302.003, Commerce Code 304.005 (Commerce Code 302, Commerce Code 304)
Enrolled: Commerce Code 302.001, Commerce Code 302.003, Commerce Code 304.005 (Commerce Code 302, Commerce Code 304)