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Bill

HB 2695

Relating to the use of a social media platform in furtherance of an offense involving the delivery of a controlled substance; increasing criminal penalties.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Rafael Anchía and 7 co-sponsors

Texas bill enhances criminal penalties when drug dealers use social media to facilitate controlled substance delivery, targeting online drug market infrastructure.

Laid on the table subject to call
#crimes--drugs(i0185) #electronicinformationsystems(i0311) #internet(s0130) #minors--health&safety(i0533)
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Bill Summary · HB 2695

Legislative bill overview

HB 2695 creates enhanced criminal penalties for individuals who use social media platforms to facilitate the delivery or distribution of controlled substances in Texas. The bill treats social media facilitation as an aggravating factor that elevates charges or sentencing for drug delivery offenses.

Why is this important

Drug trafficking increasingly occurs through encrypted social media channels and online platforms, making traditional enforcement more difficult. This legislation aims to address evolving criminal methods by explicitly penalizing the use of technology infrastructure in drug distribution schemes, potentially increasing deterrence and allowing prosecutors more tools to combat organized online drug markets.

Potential points of contention

  • First Amendment concerns: Critics may argue the bill's language regarding "use of a social media platform" could be overly broad and capture protected speech, or require clarification on what constitutes facilitation versus mere communication
  • Sentencing disparities: Increasing penalties based on platform use rather than quantity or harm could create inconsistent sentences for similar drug offenses, potentially disadvantaging defendants with limited digital literacy
  • Enforcement challenges: Determining which platform communications constitute "furtherance" of an offense versus casual discussion requires subjective interpretation and could lead to selective prosecution

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

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