The bill amends Section 17.47(c) of the Business & Commerce Code regarding civil penalties under the Deceptive Trade Practices-Consumer Protection Act. It increases the maximum civil penalty per violation from $10,000 to $20,000. Additionally, it introduces a provision for an extra civil penalty of up to $250,000 if the deceptive act or practice targets vulnerable consumers, specifically those who are 65 years or older, not fluent in the language of the transaction, or individuals with intellectual disabilities.

The changes in the law will only apply to actions brought under Section 17.47 on or after the effective date of the Act, which is set for September 1, 2025. Actions initiated before this date will continue to be governed by the previous law. This amendment aims to enhance consumer protection, particularly for at-risk populations, by imposing stricter penalties on deceptive practices.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Commerce Code 17.47 (Commerce Code 17)