Many real Texas laws are difficult to believe are still in effect, such as laws prohibiting spitting in public places or milking another person’s cow. While many of the weird laws in Texas may not be enforced, they could still result in penalties if a judge decides to enforce the law.
Below are several real laws in Texas that could have serious consequences if violated:
1. Texas Responsible Artificial Intelligence (AI) Governance Act (2025)
Many states in the United States and other countries are racing to enact laws that govern the use of artificial intelligence (AI). Texas has adopted a law that regulates AI systems used or developed within the state. The new AI law in Texas is set to go into effect on January 1, 2026.
The law impacts both the private and public sectors. Because the Texas AI Act bans specific AI practices and requires detailed internal documentation for compliance, the law is shaping how AI services must be used and managed within the Lone Star State. The Texas AI Act also changes privacy laws to deal with AI-specific issues and establishes the Texas Artificial Intelligence Council.
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2. Texas HB 1443 – Crackdown on Child-Like Sex Dolls
House Bill 1443 was signed into law by the governor on June 20, 2025. It becomes effective on September 1, 2025. The new law targets individuals who possess and promote child-like sex dolls. It creates new criminal offices for law enforcement to pursue these individuals. The goal is to protect children by creating criminal penalties for devices that simulate minors.
Promoting and/or possessing child-like dolls intended for sexual use is a felony offense in Texas. A conviction is a felony that could result in up to 20 years in prison. Possession with the intent to promote carries two to ten years in prison, while simple possession is a state jail felony that can result in up to two years in jail.
3. Texas SB 2024 – E-Cigarette Restrictions to Curb Youth Vaping
E-cigarettes are the most used tobacco products by young people in the United States. No tobacco products, including e-cigarettes, are safe to use for teens, children, and young adults. The products can be highly addictive, contain harmful flavoring, and cause severe health problems.
Senate Bill 2024 was signed into law on June 20, 2025, and will be effective on September 1, 2025. The law aims to reduce the use of e-cigarettes by young people in several ways, including expanding the definition to include all vape substances.
The law also bans marketing techniques that appeal to young people, including candy flavors, the use of cartoon imagery, and products appearing as toys or school supplies. The use of harmful additives and e-cigarettes made in China or hostile nations is also banned.
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4. Horse-Drawn Vehicle Taillight Requirements
Texas law requires animal-drawn vehicles, such as horse-drawn carriages, to follow the same lighting requirements as motor vehicles when traveling on public roads. That means carriages and wagons must have proper taillights and reflectors to ensure visibility at night or in low-light conditions. While the rule may seem unusual today, it’s aimed at preventing serious accidents and ensuring roadway safety for both riders and drivers.
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5. It’s Illegal to Milk Someone Else’s Cow Without Permission
In Texas, milking another person’s cow is still illegal and may be prosecuted as theft of property, reflecting a historical effort to protect livestock ownership. While the outdated fine is no longer in effect, the law technically remains on the books today.
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From quirky old statutes to newly enacted regulations, Texas laws can be surprising—and sometimes confusing. But when it comes to personal injury, what matters most is how the law protects your right to recover compensation.
If you’ve been hurt because of someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to both economic and non-economic damages.
Contact the Houston personal injury law firm of Attorney Brian White Personal Injury Lawyers at (713) 500-5000.
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About the Author Brian White
Brian White earned his J.D. from South Texas College of Law in Houston and is licensed to practice in Texas. He is a Board-Certified Personal Injury Trial Lawyer.
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