Sec. 101.005. CIVIL PENALTY. (a) An international matchmaking organization that violates this chapter is subject to a civil penalty not to exceed $20,000 for each violation.

(b) In determining the amount of the civil penalty, the court shall consider:

(1) any previous violations of this chapter by the international matchmaking organization;

(2) the seriousness of the violation, including the nature, circumstances, extent, and gravity of the violation;

(3) the demonstrated good faith of the international matchmaking organization; and

(4) the amount necessary to deter future violations.

(c) The attorney general or the appropriate district or county attorney may bring an action under this section in the name of the state in a district court in:

(1) Travis County; or

(2) a county in which any part of the violation occurs.

Text of subsection effective until January 01, 2021

(d) A penalty collected under this section by the attorney general or a district or county attorney shall be deposited in the state treasury to the credit of the compensation to victims of crime fund under Article 56.54, Code of Criminal Procedure.

Text of subsection effective on January 01, 2021

(d) A penalty collected under this section by the attorney general or a district or county attorney shall be deposited in the state treasury to the credit of the compensation to victims of crime fund established under Subchapter J, Chapter 56B, Code of Criminal Procedure.

Added by Acts 2007, 80th Leg., R.S., Ch. 885 (H.B. 2278), Sec. 2.01, eff. April 1, 2009.

Amended by:

Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 469 (H.B. 4173), Sec. 2.01, eff. January 1, 2021.