What this is
Texas creates a system to help residents find trusted nonprofits for disaster donations and creates harsher penalties for scammers.
The Disaster Scam Response Act is a new Texas law that protects our communities when disasters strike. When hurricanes, floods, or other emergencies happen, scammers often target people trying to help. They create fake charities and steal money meant for relief efforts. This law stops those scams.
The law creates a simple system. When a disaster threatens a city or county, that area picks one trusted nonprofit or bank to receive donations. Cities put this information on their websites so people know exactly where to give. This makes it easy to avoid fake charities. The secretary of state sets up the rules to make sure designated organizations are real and trustworthy.
The law also makes disaster donation scams serious crimes. Stealing money during a disaster can now be charged as a felony. Someone who steals less than $100 during a disaster faces a Class C misdemeanor. Theft between $100 and $750 is a Class B misdemeanor. Stealing $750 or more becomes a Class A misdemeanor or higher. The punishments are tougher than regular theft because our community is vulnerable during disasters.
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The law became effective on December 4, 2025. Local governments must list their designated relief organizations on city websites. They must also share tips on how to spot fake charities. When the next disaster strikes our state, residents will have clear, trusted places to donate and help their neighbors.
Key details
- Effective date: December 4, 2025
- Class C theft threshold: Less than $100
- Class B theft threshold: $100–$749
- Class A theft threshold: $750–$2,499
About Texas Legislature
The Texas Legislature is the state legislature of Texas, consisting of the House of Representatives with 150 members and the Senate with 31 members. Meeting in regular session every two years, the legislature passes stat…
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How this affects households
Under $30,000
This law helps protect you from disaster scams when you want to help your community. You'll know which charities are real and safe to donate to.
$30,000-$60,000
You get better protection from fake charities during disasters. The law makes it easier to find trusted places to donate safely.
$60,000-$100,000
The law protects you from donation scams and makes it easier to give safely during emergencies. You'll have clear information about which charities are legitimate.
Over $100,000
You benefit from clearer information about legitimate disaster relief organizations. The law helps ensure your charitable donations reach real victims instead of scammers.
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