Chatbot Laws · verified Oct. 21, 2026
Texas's broad AI governance act contains one conversation-related duty: a governmental agency that offers an AI system intended to interact with consumers must tell each consumer, before or at the time of interaction, that they are dealing with AI, even if that is obvious. Health care providers using AI in a service or treatment must give a similar disclosure.
Who must comply
Governmental agencies that make an AI system available to interact with consumers (Texas-resident individuals acting in a personal or household context), and providers of health care services who use an AI system in relation to a service or treatment. The chapter itself uses the term 'governmental agency' in § 552.051(b) but defines 'governmental entity' in § 552.001, which excludes hospital districts and public institutions of higher education.
What it requires
| AI disclosure | A governmental agency that makes available an AI system intended to interact with consumers must disclose to each consumer, before or at the time of interaction, that they are interacting with AI, even if it would be obvious. The disclosure must be clear and conspicuous, in plain language, and free of dark patterns, and may be given through a hyperlink to a separate web page.When: Before or at the time of interaction§ 552.051(b)-(e) |
|---|---|
| Other duties | If an AI system is used in relation to a health care service or treatment, the provider must give the same disclosure to the recipient or the recipient's personal representative no later than the date the service or treatment is first provided, or as soon as reasonably possible in an emergency.§ 552.051(f) |
Enforcement
| Enforced by | Attorney General (exclusive)§§ 552.101(a)-(b), 552.104, 552.105 |
|---|---|
| Private lawsuits | No |
| Penalties | Uncured violations: $10,000 to $12,000 for each curable violation (or breach of a cure statement); $80,000 to $200,000 for each uncurable violation; $2,000 to $40,000 per day for a continued violation. The Attorney General may also seek an injunction and attorney's fees and costs. |
| Cure period | 60 days after the Attorney General's written notice of violation; no action may be brought before the 60th day, or at all if the violation is cured and a written statement is provided within that time. |
Key dates
- Whole Act takes effect
Sources
- History for 89(R) HB 149, Texas Legislature Online Supports: signed 06/22/2025, effective 1/1/26, vote history.
- HB 149 enrolled text, Texas Legislature Online Supports: §§ 551.001, 552.001, 552.051, 552.101-552.105, Sec. 10 effective date.
- Business and Commerce Code chapter 552, Texas Constitution and Statutes Supports: Sections added by Acts 2025, 89th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1174 (H.B. 149).
- HB 149, Legislative Reference Library of Texas Supports: Chapter 1174 and bill history.