Senator Johnson Files Legislation to Protect Texans from the Misuse of Bots

News Release                                                                                                          
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                                           
Mar. 20, 2025

SENATOR JOHNSON FILES LEGISLATION TO PROTECT TEXANS FROM THE MISUSE OF BOTS 

AUSTIN, Texas – Senator Nathan Johnson has filed two important bills to protect Texans from rampant online deception, misinformation, and fraud from automated social media accounts, commonly known as “bots.” 

“The unethical and malevolent use of bots poses a menacing threat to commerce, culture, personal and public safety, and democracy. This is no exaggeration. It’s important that our regulatory protections advance in step with the misuse of advancing technology.” 

SB 2637 Social Media Bots Transparency Act. This bill requires social media platforms to clearly label bot accounts — automated programs designed to mimic human activity. The bill also requires platforms to provide warnings that bot accounts may spread misinformation and establishes civil penalties of up to $7,500 for each violation of the law. 

SB 2638 Digital Deception Prevention Act. This bill prohibits the use of bot accounts to mislead Texans into commercial transactions and requires clear disclosure when bots are used for business purposes. It also classifies deceptive bot usage as a fraudulent trade practice and expressly prohibits their role in election interference. 

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About Senator Nathan Johnson: Senator Nathan Johnson was re-elected in 2024 to serve a third term in the Texas Senate. He represents almost a million Dallas County residents in the growing and rapidly diversifying Senate District 16. With eight years of legislative experience, Senator Johnson serves on several key Senate committees, including Business and Commerce, Jurisprudence (Vice-Chair), Economic Development, Transportation, and Water, Agriculture & Rural Affairs.