TX HB4281

Creates a new civil cause of action in Texas for "fraudulent crowdfunding," defined as collecting donations on behalf of a donee with intent to keep the donations rather than giving them to the intended recipient

Allows the intended donee or their estate to sue individuals who engage in fraudulent crowdfunding

Mandates courts award prevailing plaintiffs 125% of the donated amount collected through the fraud, plus reasonable and necessary attorney's fees

Preserves the donee's ability to also pursue exemplary (punitive) damages under existing Texas law

Takes effect September 1, 2025, and applies only to causes of action arising on or after that date; passed House 143-0 and Senate 30-1