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 penalty of up to $250,000 if the deceptive act or practice targeted specific vulnerable groups, including consumers who are 65 years or older, those not fluent in the language of the transaction, or individuals with an intellectual disability.

The changes made by this bill will only apply to actions initiated on or after its effective date of September 1, 2025. Any actions brought before this date will continue to be governed by the previous law. This legislative update aims to enhance consumer protection, particularly for those in vulnerable situations, by imposing stricter penalties on deceptive practices.

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