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Bill

Bill

SB 2417

Relating to investigations conducted and actions brought by the attorney general under the Texas Free Enterprise and Antitrust Act of 1983.

89th Legislature (2025)

SB 2417 modifies Texas antitrust enforcement procedures, expanding or altering the Attorney General's investigative powers and legal remedies in competition violation cases.

Referred to Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence
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Bill Summary · SB 2417

Legislative bill overview

SB 2417 modifies the Texas Free Enterprise and Antitrust Act of 1983 to expand or alter the Texas Attorney General's investigative powers and legal remedies in antitrust cases. The bill has progressed through initial readings and committee referral, indicating it addresses procedural or substantive changes to how antitrust violations are pursued under state law.

Why is this important

Antitrust enforcement directly affects market competition, consumer prices, and business practices across Texas. Changes to the Attorney General's investigative authority or available legal remedies could strengthen enforcement against monopolistic behavior or conversely provide more protection to businesses depending on the specific provisions. Texas's large economy makes state-level antitrust policy consequential for both consumers and companies operating within the state.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of investigative power: Expansion of subpoena authority, document demands, or witness interrogation could be challenged as overreaching by business groups, or criticized by consumer advocates as insufficient
  • Remedies and penalties: Changes to damages awards, injunctive relief standards, or civil penalties will affect the deterrent effect of antitrust law and litigation costs
  • Private vs. public enforcement: Modifications may shift balance between Attorney General authority and private antitrust litigation rights, affecting access to courts

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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