United States of America: Texas Responsible Artificial Intelligence Governance Bill (HB 149) including consumer protection measures enters into force

On 1 January 2026, the Responsible Artificial Intelligence Governance Bill (HB 149) enters into force. It mandates that any governmental agency or entity deploying Artificial Intelligence (AI) systems for consumer interaction provide clear and conspicuous disclosures prior to engagement, irrespective of whether the AI’s nature is obvious. Disclosures must avoid dark patterns (as defined in Section 541.001) and may be delivered via hyperlink or, in healthcare contexts, embedded in patient consent forms. The Bill prohibits AI systems developed or deployed with the intent to manipulate individuals into committing self-harm, harming others, or engaging in criminal activity. It also bans governmental use of artificial intelligence systems for social scoring that classifies individuals based on inferred personal characteristics in ways that may lead to unjustified or disproportionate treatment. Violations are subject to civil penalties ranging from USD 10’000 to 200’000, with a 60-day cure period available for remediable violations.