The Senate Committee on Criminal Justice convened on April 29, 2025, to discuss significant legislative measures aimed at addressing the rising threats posed by artificial intelligence (AI) in financial fraud and the dangers of fentanyl trafficking facilitated through social media.

The meeting began with a detailed examination of Senate Bill 2373, which targets fraud involving AI-generated media. The bill, developed with input from various stakeholders including the Dallas County District Attorney and the Attorney General's Office, aims to enhance legal frameworks to combat AI-related scams. Key provisions include the ability to indict on multiple grounds, a clearer definition of AI and its implications, and the establishment of civil remedies for victims. The bill proposes penalties that scale with the severity of the fraud, allowing the Attorney General to impose fines and seek injunctive relief against ongoing scams.

Andrea Earl from AARP Texas provided testimony highlighting the alarming rise in scams targeting older adults, who are often the most vulnerable. She shared a poignant example of an 82-year-old man who was duped into wiring $17,000 after being misled by an AI-generated voice mimicking a family member. Earl emphasized the need for legislative action to protect Texans from these sophisticated scams, which have become increasingly prevalent and damaging.

Following this discussion, the committee shifted focus to Senate Bill 1833, introduced by Senator Parker. This bill responds to a tragic incident in Carrollton, Texas, where fentanyl-laced pills sold via social media resulted in multiple overdoses among local youth. The legislation seeks to enhance penalties for drug trafficking conducted through digital platforms, targeting those who exploit young people rather than penalizing minors in possession of drugs. Chief Roberto Arredondo of the Carrollton Police Department expressed strong support for the bill, underscoring the urgent need to combat the growing threat of fentanyl facilitated by social media.

The committee concluded the session without a vote, leaving both bills pending further consideration. The discussions underscored the Texas Legislature's commitment to addressing the evolving challenges posed by technology in criminal activities and protecting vulnerable populations from exploitation.