Codified under section 17.41 of the Texas Business and Commerce Code, The Texas “Deceptive Trade Practices-Consumer Protection Act” was enacted to protect Texas citizens from certain harmful business conduct . This Act is commonly referred to as the “DTPA.” It can be a powerful tool for a consumer that has been harmed to have recourse under the law.
Specifically, according to section 17.44 of the act, the underlying purposes, are to: “protect consumers against false, misleading, and deceptive business practices, unconscionable actions, and breaches of warranty and to provide efficient and economical procedures to secure such protection.” The DTPA also provides what is generally called the “laundry list,” which is a list of offenses that are actionable under the act. There are also a number of what are commonly known as “tie-in statutes” with specific application to certain businesses like insurance.
Texas consumers injured by certain conduct may be entitled to damages. Moreover, if the conduct was done “intentionally or knowingly,” then you may be entitled to increased damage awards from the offender.
