Sec. 278.101. CIVIL PENALTY. (a) A person who knowingly violates this chapter is liable to the state for a civil penalty in an amount not to exceed $1,000 for each violation. The attorney general or the prosecuting attorney in the county in which the violation occurs may bring:

(1) a suit to recover the civil penalty imposed under this section; and

(2) an action in the name of the state to restrain or enjoin a person from violating this chapter.

(b) The attorney general or the prosecuting attorney in the county in which the violation occurs, as appropriate, is entitled to recover reasonable expenses incurred in obtaining injunctive relief, civil penalties, or both, under this section, including reasonable attorney's fees, court costs, and investigatory costs.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1001, Sec. 7, eff. Sept. 1, 2003.