The bill, titled "Liability for Online Impersonation," introduces a new chapter, Chapter 98C, to the Civil Practice and Remedies Code in Texas. It defines "online impersonation" as the unauthorized use of an individual's name, voice, signature, photograph, or likeness on social media, particularly emphasizing the need for consent from the individual or their parent/guardian if the individual is a minor. The bill outlines that law enforcement agencies are exempt from liability when acting within their scope of employment in investigating internet crimes. Additionally, it clarifies that interactive computer services are not liable for content provided by others.

Under this new chapter, individuals who engage in online impersonation with the intent to harm, defraud, intimidate, or threaten another person can be held liable for damages. Victims may recover actual damages, including costs related to counseling and identity theft, as well as exemplary damages of at least $500. The bill also allows courts to issue injunctions to prevent ongoing impersonation and ensures that the new cause of action is cumulative to existing remedies under common law or statute. The provisions of this act are set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

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