August 31, 2025

Dallas Faces New Trade Compliance and Telemarketing Challenges

News Summary

Dallas businesses are navigating significant changes in trade compliance under the USMCA and upcoming telemarketing regulations in Texas. The heightened compliance risks demand vigilance as companies must adapt to stricter enforcement and prepare for new telemarketing laws taking effect in September 2025. Key adjustments include documenting consent for telemarketing practices to avoid potential penalties. As these regulations evolve, proactive measures will be essential for businesses to stay compliant and avoid costly repercussions.

Texas importers are facing increased compliance risks as global trading regulations tighten under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). The heightened scrutiny from regulatory bodies means that assumptions and shortcuts in compliance processes could lead to costly penalties for businesses. Being precise in compliance is no longer optional; it is essential for survival in the complex international trade landscape.

As the trade environment evolves, the USMCA stipulates specific qualification analyses for goods, making it clear that claiming USMCA preferential treatment based solely on a product’s production location is a misconception. According to U.S. regulations, the country of origin is often linked to various components and not merely the assembly location. Therefore, importers must maintain rigorous documentation to substantiate their claims during Customs and Border Protection (CBP) reviews or audits.

Moreover, goods that qualify for USMCA preferential treatment may still fall under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) reciprocal tariffs. This is critical for businesses to consider since additional duties may be applicable due to specific industry laws and regulations, particularly those outlined by CBP. Compliance errors can prove financially damaging, especially for companies dealing with metals such as steel, aluminum, and copper, which are subject to Section 232 tariffs.

The changing international trade landscape has made compliance increasingly complex. As a result, experts are advising importers to invest in compliance practices to avoid penalties and position themselves for success in a shifting environment. Documentation supporting declarations will be key, particularly as enforcement measures grow stronger.

In addition to trade compliance risks, Texas is poised to implement significant changes in telemarketing laws under Senate Bill 140 (SB140), effective September 1, 2025. This legislation expands the definition of telemarketing to include texts and multimedia messages, affecting any telemarketer reaching Texas consumers. However, key exemptions apply, including certain regulated businesses, educational institutions, and nonprofits.

SB140 introduces a private right of action for consumers, allowing them to pursue claims under the Texas Deceptive Trade Practices and Consumer Protection Act (DTPA). Statutory damages for violations can range from $500 to $1,500 for each unlawful call or text, and intentional violations could lead to treble damages. Furthermore, the Texas Public Utility Commission could impose administrative penalties, while the Attorney General has the authority to seek civil penalties of up to $5,000 for willful infractions.

With SB140 increasing litigation risks, businesses are encouraged to review their telemarketing compliance practices. Companies should update policies and train relevant teams to ensure alignment with the new regulations. Communication strategies, particularly those involving autodialers and automated messaging, must adhere closely to the updated telemarketing statutes to mitigate potential risks.

The law underscores the importance of proper telemarketing registration requirements in Texas, which have recently faced intense scrutiny and subsequent litigation. Businesses must document consent and opt-out processes meticulously to protect against potential claims and penalties under the new law.

The combined pressures from both USMCA compliance and new telemarketing regulations illustrate an increasingly challenging environment for businesses operating in and out of Texas. Staying informed and adapting to these changes is crucial for success and risk management moving forward.

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Author: STAFF HERE GEORGETOWN

The GEORGETOWN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREgeorgetown.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Georgetown, Williamson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Red Poppy Festival, Georgetown Swirl, and Christmas Stroll. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and the Downtown Georgetown Association, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and tourism that power the local economy such as local wineries and historic downtown shops. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, HEREgeorgetown.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.