Texas didn't just update its telemarketing laws in 2025 — it rewrote the rulebook with Senate Bill 140. Effective September 1, 2025, the state's mini-TCPA now explicitly covers text messages, ties violations to the Deceptive Trade Practices Act (DTPA), and unlocks treble damages, mental anguish awards, and attorney fees.
By late 2025, Texas federal courts alone had seen roughly 250 TCPA cases, with another 200+ in state court. That's not a trend — that's an explosion. Serial claims for repeated violations are now expressly allowed.
Key Drivers of the Texas Surge
- Texts = Calls — marketing texts without consent or to DNC-listed numbers are now slam-dunk violations.
- Triple-stacked liability — Federal TCPA + mini-TCPA + DTPA means one illegal text can trigger $1,500+ in statutory damages — tripled.
- Registration and bonding requirements — out-of-state callers who skipped the new $200 filing and $10,000 bond are being sued constantly.
What Texas Consumers Should Do
- Register on the National DNC Registry and Texas's state DNC list.
- Document every unwanted call and text — both equally actionable under SB 140.
- Note whether the caller was registered and bonded — unregistered callers face additional liability.
- Explore DTPA claims alongside TCPA — treble damages make even a few calls highly valuable.
2025 proved it: In Texas, the consumer is now the enforcer.
Educational content only. Nothing in this post constitutes legal advice. Always consult a licensed attorney for advice specific to your situation.