TX SB2638

Prohibits using bot accounts (automated software accounts that impersonate human activity) to induce commercial transactions in a manner likely to mislead a reasonable person about the account user's identity

Prohibits using bot accounts to influence election results in a manner likely to mislead reasonable persons about the account user's identity

Provides a safe harbor from liability if a person clearly and conspicuously discloses that the account being used is a bot account

Classifies misleading commercial bot account use as a deceptive trade practice actionable under existing consumer protection laws (Chapter 17, Business & Commerce Code)

Establishes civil penalties for election-related violations: up to $4,000 for first violation and up to $8,000 for subsequent violations, with the Texas Ethics Commission authorized to investigate complaints and the Attorney General empowered to bring enforcement actions