In one paragraph
Texas SB 1960 (2025), as engrossed, would have added Business & Commerce Code Chapter 651 giving individuals a licensable property right in computer-generated digital replicas of their voice or visual likeness. Producing or publishing a replica without written consent would have been prohibited, subject to exceptions such as news, commentary, satire and parody; online services would have had to designate a takedown agent, and rights holders could sue for injunctions and damages. It passed the Senate but died in a House committee at sine die adjournment June 2, 2025.
Plain-English summary, written with AI assistance. The official text controls.
What it means for business
No duties for businesses because the bill died. Had it passed, AI developers, media producers and online platforms would have faced consent, takedown and damages exposure.
Key provisions
- Sec. 651.052: the right 'does not expire on the death of an individual'; it lasts 10 years after death, renewable for 5-year periods on conditions, and ends no later than 70 years after death
- Secs. 651.055-.056: adult licenses may not extend beyond 10 years; minors' licenses end at the earlier of 5 years or age 18 and need parental signature and court approval
- Sec. 651.053: no one may 'produce a digital replica without the written consent of the right holder' or publish or distribute one
- Secs. 651.101-.103: online services must designate an agent for notices and remove or disable access 'as soon as is technically and practically feasible'; false notices are barred
- Secs. 651.203-.205: statutory damages of $5,000 per work (individuals), $5,000 per violation (online providers) or $25,000 per work (others); provider liability capped at $1 million where it held a reasonable belief; attorney's fees to prevailing plaintiffs
- Secs. 651.151-.152: the Secretary of State would maintain a public directory of postmortem rights and may charge a filing fee
- Would have taken effect September 1, 2025; the remedies subchapter applied only to conduct on or after that date; enforcement only by private civil action, no criminal penalty
Latest legislative action
May 21, 2025. Left pending in House committee; died when the 89th Legislature's regular session adjourned June 2, 2025
Sponsors (showing 5 of 9)
| Name | Role |
|---|---|
| Darby | Primary |
| Perry | Primary |
| Rodríguez | Primary |
| Schwertner | Primary |
| Tepper | Primary |
Roll call votes
Senate Rule 7.18 and the Constitutional Rule requiring bills to be read on three several days be suspended and that SB 1960 be placed on its third reading and final passage. Apr 22, 2025
31 yea0 nayPassed
Topics and industries
Related topics
Affected industries
This page is general information, not legal advice. Summaries are AI-assisted and may contain errors; read the statute for the controlling text and talk to a lawyer about your situation. Full disclaimer · Report an error