Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Texas House Bill HB3133

Filed
2/20/25  
Out of House Committee
4/24/25  
Voted on by House
5/2/25  
Out of Senate Committee
5/23/25  
Voted on by Senate
5/26/25  
Governor Action
6/20/25  

Caption

Relating to user reports of explicit deep fake material on social media platforms.

Impact

The intent behind HB 3133 is to strengthen protections for users against harmful content that could misrepresent individuals through malicious uses of technology. By mandating social media platforms to institute robust complaint protocols and set specific response times, the bill aims to enhance accountability among service providers and ensure that users have recourse against deceptive practices. Furthermore, violations of the stipulations outlined in the bill would be classified as deceptive trade practices under existing law, allowing users to seek legal redress through formal channels.

Summary

House Bill 3133 addresses the issue of explicit deep fake material on social media platforms by establishing a formal complaint system for users. The bill requires that social media platforms provide a clear and accessible way for users to report explicit deep fake content and obligates platforms to take action by confirming receipt of the report and removing any identified explicit deep fake materials. This initiative is part of an effort to tackle the increasing concerns regarding the use of deep fakes and their potential dangers to individuals' reputations and privacy online.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB 3133 appears to be supportive among those concerned about online safety and the proliferation of deep fakes, which have been increasingly recognized as posing risks in various contexts, from personal harassment to misinformation campaigns. However, there are likely concerns among some social media companies regarding the burden of compliance and the implications of potentially having to monitor content more closely. Discussions in committee meetings likely reflected these mixed feelings, showcasing both the urgency of addressing the issue and the operational challenges it poses.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding the bill may include the definitions of 'explicit' and 'deep fake' materials, which could raise questions about subjective judgment in enforcement. Additionally, there could be apprehensions among stakeholders, including tech companies and free speech advocates, regarding the balance between addressing harmful content and preserving the rights of users to express themselves on these platforms. The implementation of strict compliance requirements may also lead to debates about the feasibility and impact on user engagement on social media.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB421

Relating to the creation of certain explicit deep fake material; providing a private cause of action.

TX HB3862

Relating to prohibiting use of social media platforms by children.

TX SB441

Relating to criminal and civil liability related to sexually explicit media and artificial intimate visual material; creating a criminal offense; increasing a criminal penalty.

TX HB3694

Relating to the unlawful production or distribution of certain sexually explicit media and to the removal of certain intimate visual depictions published on online platforms without the consent of the person depicted; increasing criminal penalties.

TX HB4082

Social media platforms; user restrictions

TX HB186

Relating to prohibiting use of social media platforms by children.

TX HB4456

Relating to requiring social media platforms to verify the age of account holders on the platform.

TX HB2874

Relating to the inclusion of provenance data on content shared on social media platforms.

TX HB4338

Relating to the use of safety management software for children on large social media platforms.

TX HB449

Relating to the unlawful production or distribution of sexually explicit media using deep fake technology.

Similar Bills

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CO HB1255

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NC S722

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CT SB01406

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NC S1033

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HI HB1254

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