H.B. No. 20, known as the Disaster Scam Response Act, aims to enhance consumer protection against fraudulent charitable solicitations and theft during declared disasters. The bill introduces a new designation program for nonprofit organizations and financial institutions that wish to solicit donations for disaster relief efforts. This program, administered by the Secretary of State, will help residents identify reputable organizations to which they can donate. Additionally, the bill mandates that each political subdivision include designated organizations in their emergency management plans and publish relevant information on their websites to help prevent fraud.

The legislation also establishes new criminal offenses and increases penalties for theft and fraudulent solicitation related to disasters. It amends the Penal Code to include specific provisions for theft occurring in disaster areas, particularly when the perpetrator claims to be a disaster volunteer. Furthermore, it introduces civil liability for individuals engaging in malicious solicitation during disasters, allowing victims to recover significant damages and attorney's fees. Overall, the bill seeks to protect consumers and ensure that charitable efforts during disasters are legitimate and effective.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Penal Code 31.03 (Penal Code 31)
House Committee Report: Penal Code 31.03 (Penal Code 31)
Engrossed: Penal Code 31.03 (Penal Code 31)
Senate Committee Report: Penal Code 31.03 (Penal Code 31)
Enrolled: Penal Code 31.03 (Penal Code 31)