Both sides have signed this (Bill Ranking)
H.R. 2481 · 119th Congress (2025-2026)
10 members · Left 2 · Center 4 · Right 4 (Bill Ranking)
| Sponsor | Rep. Valadao, David G. (R-CA) (Introduced 03/31/2025) |
|---|---|
| Sponsor Voting Record | Lean right · DW-NOMINATE +0.26 · measured from every roll-call vote this member has cast (voteview.com) (Sponsor Ranking) |
| Support |
LLLCLRR support across the spectrum: 10 members signed on (Bill Ranking) this bill: sponsor + current cosponsors, each once |
| Committees | House - Energy and Commerce Committee; House - Energy and Commerce Committee; House - Energy and Commerce Committee |
| Latest Action | 06/17/2026 Read twice. Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 438. |
| Roll Call Votes | There have been no roll call votes |
| Source | view on congress.gov → |
Introduced in House (03/31/2025)
Romance Scam Prevention Act
This bill requires online dating service providers (i.e., mobile applications or websites) to provide users with a fraud ban notification if the user has established an account with the service and received a message through the service from a banned user of the service.
The fraud ban notification must include (1) the username or other profile identifier of the banned user and the most recent time when the user who is receiving the notification sent or received a message through the service to or from the banned user, (2) a statement that the banned user may have been using a false identity or attempting to defraud other users, (3) a statement that the user should not send cash (or another form of currency) or personal financial information to another user, (4) information about avoiding online fraud (e.g., a link to another website or a disclosure) and (5) contact information for the provider's customer service department.
The bill provides for enforcement of these requirements by the Federal Trade Commission and state attorneys general.
119 HR 2481 EH: Romance Scam Prevention Act U.S. House of Representatives text/xml EN Pursuant to Title 17 Section 105 of the United States Code, this file is not subject to copyright protection and is in the public domain. IB 119th CONGRESS1st Session H. R. 2481
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES AN ACT To require online dating service providers to provide fraud ban notifications to online dating service members, and for other purposes.
1.Short titleThis Act may be cited as the Romance Scam Prevention Act.
2.Romance scam prevention (a)Fraud ban notification (1)In generalAn online dating service provider shall provide to a member of the online dating service a fraud ban notification if the member has received a message through the online dating service from a banned member of the online dating service. (2)Required contentsA fraud ban notification under paragraph (1) shall include the following: (A)The username or other profile identifier of the banned member, as well as the most recent time when the member to whom the notification is being provided sent or received a message through the online dating service to or from the banned member. (B)A statement, as applicable, that the banned member identified in subparagraph (A) may have been using a false identity or attempting to defraud members. (C)A statement that a member should not send cash or another form of currency or personal financial information to another member. (D)Information regarding best practices to avoid online fraud or being defrauded by a member of an online dating service, which may be provided through a link to another web page or disclosure. (E)Contact information to reach the customer service department of the online dating service provider. (3)Manner and timing (A)MannerA fraud ban notification under paragraph (1) shall be— (i)clear and conspicuous; and (ii)provided by email, text message, or, if consented to by the member receiving the fraud ban notification, other appropriate means of communication. (B)Timing (i)In generalExcept as provided in clauses (ii) and (iii), an online dating service provider shall provide a fraud ban notification under paragraph (1) not later than 24 hours after the fraud ban is initiated against the banned member. (ii)Delay based on judgment of providerIf, in the judgment of the online dating service provider, the circumstances require a fraud ban notification under paragraph (1) to be provided after the 24-hour period described in clause (i), the online dating service provider shall, except as provided in clause (iii), provide the notification not later than 3 days after the day on which the fraud ban is initiated against the banned member. (iii)Delay upon request of law enforcement officialIf, due to an ongoing investigation, a law enforcement official requests an online dating service provider to delay providing a fraud ban notification under paragraph (1) beyond the time when the notification is required to be provided under clause (i) or (ii), the online dating service provider— (I)may not provide the notification before the end of the period of delay (including any extension of such period) requested by the law enforcement official; and (II)shall provide the notification not later than 3 days after the last day of the period of delay (including any extension of such period) requested by the law enforcement official. (4)Safe harbor applicabilityAn online dating service provider is not liable to a member, a banned member, or a former member for a claim based on an online dating service provider’s action to comply with the requirements for providing a fraud ban notification under this subsection. (b)Enforcement (1)Enforcement by the Commission (A)Unfair or deceptive acts or practicesA violation of this section or a regulation promulgated under this section shall be treated as a violation of a rule defining an unfair or deceptive act or practice under section 18(a)(1)(B) of the Federal Trade Commission Act (15 U.S.C. 57a(a)(1)(B)). (B)Powers of commission (i)In generalThe Commission shall enforce this section in the same manner, by the same means, and with the same jurisdiction, powers, and duties as though all applicable terms and provisions of the Federal Trade Commission Act (15 U.S.C. 41 et seq.) were incorporated into and made a part of this section. (ii)Privileges and immunitiesAny person who violates this section shall be subject to the penalties and entitled to the privileges and immunities provided in the Federal Trade Commission Act. (iii)Authority preservedNothing in this section may be construed to limit the authority of the Commission under any other provision of law. (2)Enforcement by States (A)In generalSubject to subparagraph (B), in any case in which the attorney general of a State has reason to believe that an interest of the residents of the State has been or is threatened or adversely affected by the engagement of any person in an act or practice that violates this section, the attorney general of the State may, as parens patriae, bring a civil action on behalf of the residents of the State in an appropriate district court of the United States to obtain appropriate relief. (B)Rights of the Commission (i)Notice to the Commission (I)In generalExcept as provided in subclause (III), before initiating a civil action under subparagraph (A), the attorney general of a State shall notify the Commission in writing that the attorney general intends to bring such civil action. (II)ContentsThe notification required by subclause (I) shall include a copy of the complaint to be filed to initiate the civil action. (III)ExceptionIf it is not feasible for the attorney general of a State to provide the notification required by subclause (I) before initiating a civil action under subparagraph (A), the attorney general shall notify the Commission immediately upon instituting the civil action. (ii)Intervention by the CommissionUpon receiving the notice required by clause (i)(I), the Commission may intervene in the civil action and, upon intervening— (I)be heard on all matters arising in the civil action; and (II)file petitions for appeal of a decision in the civil action. (C)Limitation on State action while Federal action is pendingIf the Commission has instituted a civil action for a violation of this section or a regulation promulgated under this section, no attorney general of a State may bring an action under subparagraph (A) during the pendency of that action against any defendant named in the complaint of the Commission for any violation of this section or a regulation promulgated under this section alleged in the complaint. (D)Rule of constructionFor purposes of bringing a civil action under this subsection, nothing in this subsection may be construed to prevent the attorney general of a State from exercising the powers conferred on the attorney general by the laws of the State to conduct investigations, to administer oaths or affirmations, or to compel the attendance of witnesses or the production of documentary or other evidence. (E)Actions by other State officialsIn addition to a civil action brought by an attorney general under subparagraph (A), any other consumer protection officer of a State who is authorized by the State to do so may bring a civil action under subparagraph (A), subject to the same requirements and limitations that apply under this paragraph to a civil action brought by an attorney general. (c)One national standard (1)In generalA State, or political subdivision thereof, may not maintain, enforce, prescribe, or continue in effect a provision of any law, rule, regulation, requirement, or standard having the force and effect of law of the State, or political subdivision of the State, that requires an online dating service provider to notify, prohibits an online dating service provider from notifying, or otherwise affects the manner in which an online dating service provider is required or permitted to notify, a member of the online dating service that the member has received a message from or sent a message to a member whose account or profile on the online dating service is the subject of a fraud ban through the online dating service. (2)Rule of constructionThis subsection may not be construed to preempt any law of a State or political subdivision of a State relating to contracts or torts. (d)DefinitionsIn this section: (1)Banned memberThe term banned member means a member of an online dating service whose account or profile on the online dating service is the subject of a fraud ban. (2)CommissionThe term Commission means the Federal Trade Commission. (3)Fraud banThe term fraud ban means the termination or suspension of the account or profile of a member of an online dating service because, in the judgment of the online dating service provider, there is a significant risk the member will attempt to obtain cash or another form of currency from another member through fraudulent means. (4)MemberThe term member means an individual who— (A)submits to an online dating service provider the information required by the provider to establish an account or profile on the online dating service; and (B)is allowed by the provider to establish such an account or profile. (5)Online dating serviceThe term online dating service means a service that— (A)is provided through a website or a mobile application; and (B)offers members access to dating or romantic relationships with other members by arranging or facilitating the social introduction of members. (6)Online dating service providerThe term online dating service provider means a person engaged in the business of offering an online dating service. (7)StateThe term State means each State of the United States, the District of Columbia, each commonwealth, territory, or possession of the United States, and each federally recognized Indian Tribe. (e)Effective dateThis section shall take effect on the date that is 1 year after the date of the enactment of this Act. Passed the House of Representatives June 23, 2025.Kevin F. McCumber,Clerk.
119 HR 2481 IH: Romance Scam Prevention Act U.S. House of Representatives 2025-03-31 text/xml EN Pursuant to Title 17 Section 105 of the United States Code, this file is not subject to copyright protection and is in the public domain. I119th CONGRESS1st SessionH. R. 2481IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVESMarch 31, 2025Mr. Valadao (for himself, Ms. Pettersen, Mr. Goldman of Texas, and Mr. Suozzi) introduced the following bill; which was referred to the Committee on Energy and CommerceA BILLTo require online dating service providers to provide fraud ban notifications to online dating service members, and for other purposes.
1.Short titleThis Act may be cited as the Romance Scam Prevention Act.
2.Romance scam prevention (a)Fraud ban notification (1)In generalAn online dating service provider shall provide to a member of the online dating service a fraud ban notification if the member has received a message through the online dating service from a banned member of the online dating service. (2)Required contentsA fraud ban notification under paragraph (1) shall include the following: (A)The username or other profile identifier of the banned member, as well as the most recent time when the member to whom the notification is being provided sent or received a message through the online dating service to or from the banned member. (B)A statement, as applicable, that the banned member identified in subparagraph (A) may have been using a false identity or attempting to defraud members. (C)A statement that a member should not send cash or another form of currency or personal financial information to another member. (D)Information regarding best practices to avoid online fraud or being defrauded by a member of an online dating service, which may be provided through a link to another web page or disclosure. (E)Contact information to reach the customer service department of the online dating service provider. (3)Manner and timing (A)MannerA fraud ban notification under paragraph (1) shall be— (i)clear and conspicuous; and (ii)provided by email, text message, or, if consented to by the member receiving the fraud ban notification, other appropriate means of communication. (B)Timing (i)In generalExcept as provided in clauses (ii) and (iii), an online dating service provider shall provide a fraud ban notification under paragraph (1) not later than 24 hours after the fraud ban is initiated against the banned member. (ii)Delay based on judgment of providerIf, in the judgment of the online dating service provider, the circumstances require a fraud ban notification under paragraph (1) to be provided after the 24-hour period described in clause (i), the online dating service provider shall, except as provided in clause (iii), provide the notification not later than 3 days after the day on which the fraud ban is initiated against the banned member. (iii)Delay upon request of law enforcement officialIf, due to an ongoing investigation, a law enforcement official requests an online dating service provider to delay providing a fraud ban notification under paragraph (1) beyond the time when the notification is required to be provided under clause (i) or (ii), the online dating service provider— (I)may not provide the notification before the end of the period of delay (including any extension of such period) requested by the law enforcement official; and (II)shall provide the notification not later than 3 days after the last day of the period of delay (including any extension of such period) requested by the law enforcement official. (4)Safe harbor applicabilityAn online dating service provider is not liable to a member, a banned member, or a former member for a claim based on an online dating service provider’s action to comply with the requirements for providing a fraud ban notification under this subsection. (b)Enforcement (1)Enforcement by the Commission (A)Unfair or deceptive acts or practicesA violation of this section or a regulation promulgated under this section shall be treated as a violation of a rule defining an unfair or deceptive act or practice under section 18(a)(1)(B) of the Federal Trade Commission Act (15 U.S.C. 57a(a)(1)(B)). (B)Powers of commission (i)In generalThe Commission shall enforce this section in the same manner, by the same means, and with the same jurisdiction, powers, and duties as though all applicable terms and provisions of the Federal Trade Commission Act (15 U.S.C. 41 et seq.) were incorporated into and made a part of this section. (ii)Privileges and immunitiesAny person who violates this section shall be subject to the penalties and entitled to the privileges and immunities provided in the Federal Trade Commission Act. (iii)Authority preservedNothing in this section may be construed to limit the authority of the Commission under any other provision of law. (2)Enforcement by States (A)In generalSubject to subparagraph (B), in any case in which the attorney general of a State has reason to believe that an interest of the residents of the State has been or is threatened or adversely affected by the engagement of any person in an act or practice that violates this section, the attorney general of the State may, as parens patriae, bring a civil action on behalf of the residents of the State in an appropriate district court of the United States to obtain appropriate relief. (B)Rights of the Commission (i)Notice to the Commission (I)In generalExcept as provided in subclause (III), before initiating a civil action under subparagraph (A), the attorney general of a State shall notify the Commission in writing that the attorney general intends to bring such civil action. (II)ContentsThe notification required by subclause (I) shall include a copy of the complaint to be filed to initiate the civil action. (III)ExceptionIf it is not feasible for the attorney general of a State to provide the notification required by subclause (I) before initiating a civil action under subparagraph (A), the attorney general shall notify the Commission immediately upon instituting the civil action. (ii)Intervention by the CommissionUpon receiving the notice required by clause (i)(I), the Commission may intervene in the civil action and, upon intervening— (I)be heard on all matters arising in the civil action; and (II)file petitions for appeal of a decision in the civil action. (C)Limitation on State action while Federal action is pendingIf the Commission has instituted a civil action for a violation of this section or a regulation promulgated under this section, no attorney general of a State may bring an action under subparagraph (A) during the pendency of that action against any defendant named in the complaint of the Commission for any violation of this section or a regulation promulgated under this section alleged in the complaint. (D)Rule of constructionFor purposes of bringing a civil action under this subsection, nothing in this subsection may be construed to prevent the attorney general of a State from exercising the powers conferred on the attorney general by the laws of the State to conduct investigations, to administer oaths or affirmations, or to compel the attendance of witnesses or the production of documentary or other evidence. (E)Actions by other State officialsIn addition to a civil action brought by an attorney general under subparagraph (A), any other consumer protection officer of a State who is authorized by the State to do so may bring a civil action under subparagraph (A), subject to the same requirements and limitations that apply under this paragraph to a civil action brought by an attorney general. (c)One national standard (1)In generalA State, or political subdivision thereof, may not maintain, enforce, prescribe, or continue in effect a provision of any law, rule, regulation, requirement, or standard having the force and effect of law of the State, or political subdivision of the State, that requires an online dating service provider to notify, prohibits an online dating service provider from notifying, or otherwise affects the manner in which an online dating service provider is required or permitted to notify, a member of the online dating service that the member has received a message from or sent a message to a member whose account or profile on the online dating service is the subject of a fraud ban through the online dating service. (2)Rule of constructionThis subsection may not be construed to preempt any law of a State or political subdivision of a State relating to contracts or torts. (d)DefinitionsIn this section: (1)Banned memberThe term banned member means a member of an online dating service whose account or profile on the online dating service is the subject of a fraud ban. (2)CommissionThe term Commission means the Federal Trade Commission. (3)Fraud banThe term fraud ban means the termination or suspension of the account or profile of a member of an online dating service because, in the judgment of the online dating service provider, there is a significant risk the member will attempt to obtain cash or another form of currency from another member through fraudulent means. (4)MemberThe term member means an individual who— (A)submits to an online dating service provider the information required by the provider to establish an account or profile on the online dating service; and (B)is allowed by the provider to establish such an account or profile. (5)Online dating serviceThe term online dating service means a service that— (A)is provided through a website or a mobile application; and (B)offers members access to dating or romantic relationships with other members by arranging or facilitating the social introduction of members. (6)Online dating service providerThe term online dating service provider means a person engaged in the business of offering an online dating service. (7)StateThe term State means each State of the United States, the District of Columbia, each commonwealth, territory, or possession of the United States, and each federally recognized Indian Tribe. (e)Effective dateThis section shall take effect on the date that is 1 year after the date of the enactment of this Act.
119 HR 2481 PCS: Romance Scam Prevention Act U.S. House of Representatives 2026-06-24 text/xml EN Pursuant to Title 17 Section 105 of the United States Code, this file is not subject to copyright protection and is in the public domain. IICalendar No. 438119th CONGRESS2d SessionH. R. 2481IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATESJune 24, 2025ReceivedJune 17, 2026Read twice and placed on the calendarAN ACTTo require online dating service providers to provide fraud ban notifications to online dating service members, and for other purposes.1.Short titleThis Act may be cited as the Romance Scam Prevention Act.2.Romance scam prevention(a)Fraud ban notification(1)In generalAn online dating service provider shall provide to a member of the online dating service a fraud ban notification if the member has received a message through the online dating service from a banned member of the online dating service.(2)Required contentsA fraud ban notification under paragraph (1) shall include the following:(A)The username or other profile identifier of the banned member, as well as the most recent time when the member to whom the notification is being provided sent or received a message through the online dating service to or from the banned member.(B)A statement, as applicable, that the banned member identified in subparagraph (A) may have been using a false identity or attempting to defraud members.(C)A statement that a member should not send cash or another form of currency or personal financial information to another member.(D)Information regarding best practices to avoid online fraud or being defrauded by a member of an online dating service, which may be provided through a link to another web page or disclosure.(E)Contact information to reach the customer service department of the online dating service provider.(3)Manner and timing(A)MannerA fraud ban notification under paragraph (1) shall be—(i)clear and conspicuous; and(ii)provided by email, text message, or, if consented to by the member receiving the fraud ban notification, other appropriate means of communication.(B)Timing(i)In generalExcept as provided in clauses (ii) and (iii), an online dating service provider shall provide a fraud ban notification under paragraph (1) not later than 24 hours after the fraud ban is initiated against the banned member.(ii)Delay based on judgment of providerIf, in the judgment of the online dating service provider, the circumstances require a fraud ban notification under paragraph (1) to be provided after the 24-hour period described in clause (i), the online dating service provider shall, except as provided in clause (iii), provide the notification not later than 3 days after the day on which the fraud ban is initiated against the banned member.(iii)Delay upon request of law enforcement officialIf, due to an ongoing investigation, a law enforcement official requests an online dating service provider to delay providing a fraud ban notification under paragraph (1) beyond the time when the notification is required to be provided under clause (i) or (ii), the online dating service provider—(I)may not provide the notification before the end of the period of delay (including any extension of such period) requested by the law enforcement official; and(II)shall provide the notification not later than 3 days after the last day of the period of delay (including any extension of such period) requested by the law enforcement official.(4)Safe harbor applicabilityAn online dating service provider is not liable to a member, a banned member, or a former member for a claim based on an online dating service provider’s action to comply with the requirements for providing a fraud ban notification under this subsection. (b)Enforcement(1)Enforcement by the Commission(A)Unfair or deceptive acts or practicesA violation of this section or a regulation promulgated under this section shall be treated as a violation of a rule defining an unfair or deceptive act or practice under section 18(a)(1)(B) of the Federal Trade Commission Act (15 U.S.C. 57a(a)(1)(B)).(B)Powers of commission(i)In generalThe Commission shall enforce this section in the same manner, by the same means, and with the same jurisdiction, powers, and duties as though all applicable terms and provisions of the Federal Trade Commission Act (15 U.S.C. 41 et seq.) were incorporated into and made a part of this section.(ii)Privileges and immunitiesAny person who violates this section shall be subject to the penalties and entitled to the privileges and immunities provided in the Federal Trade Commission Act.(iii)Authority preservedNothing in this section may be construed to limit the authority of the Commission under any other provision of law.(2)Enforcement by States(A)In generalSubject to subparagraph (B), in any case in which the attorney general of a State has reason to believe that an interest of the residents of the State has been or is threatened or adversely affected by the engagement of any person in an act or practice that violates this section, the attorney general of the State may, as parens patriae, bring a civil action on behalf of the residents of the State in an appropriate district court of the United States to obtain appropriate relief. (B)Rights of the Commission(i)Notice to the Commission(I)In generalExcept as provided in subclause (III), before initiating a civil action under subparagraph (A), the attorney general of a State shall notify the Commission in writing that the attorney general intends to bring such civil action.(II)ContentsThe notification required by subclause (I) shall include a copy of the complaint to be filed to initiate the civil action.(III)ExceptionIf it is not feasible for the attorney general of a State to provide the notification required by subclause (I) before initiating a civil action under subparagraph (A), the attorney general shall notify the Commission immediately upon instituting the civil action.(ii)Intervention by the CommissionUpon receiving the notice required by clause (i)(I), the Commission may intervene in the civil action and, upon intervening—(I)be heard on all matters arising in the civil action; and(II)file petitions for appeal of a decision in the civil action.(C)Limitation on State action while Federal action is pendingIf the Commission has instituted a civil action for a violation of this section or a regulation promulgated under this section, no attorney general of a State may bring an action under subparagraph (A) during the pendency of that action against any defendant named in the complaint of the Commission for any violation of this section or a regulation promulgated under this section alleged in the complaint.(D)Rule of constructionFor purposes of bringing a civil action under this subsection, nothing in this subsection may be construed to prevent the attorney general of a State from exercising the powers conferred on the attorney general by the laws of the State to conduct investigations, to administer oaths or affirmations, or to compel the attendance of witnesses or the production of documentary or other evidence.(E)Actions by other State officialsIn addition to a civil action brought by an attorney general under subparagraph (A), any other consumer protection officer of a State who is authorized by the State to do so may bring a civil action under subparagraph (A), subject to the same requirements and limitations that apply under this paragraph to a civil action brought by an attorney general.(c)One national standard(1)In generalA State, or political subdivision thereof, may not maintain, enforce, prescribe, or continue in effect a provision of any law, rule, regulation, requirement, or standard having the force and effect of law of the State, or political subdivision of the State, that requires an online dating service provider to notify, prohibits an online dating service provider from notifying, or otherwise affects the manner in which an online dating service provider is required or permitted to notify, a member of the online dating service that the member has received a message from or sent a message to a member whose account or profile on the online dating service is the subject of a fraud ban through the online dating service.(2)Rule of constructionThis subsection may not be construed to preempt any law of a State or political subdivision of a State relating to contracts or torts.(d)DefinitionsIn this section:(1)Banned memberThe term banned member means a member of an online dating service whose account or profile on the online dating service is the subject of a fraud ban.(2)CommissionThe term Commission means the Federal Trade Commission.(3)Fraud banThe term fraud ban means the termination or suspension of the account or profile of a member of an online dating service because, in the judgment of the online dating service provider, there is a significant risk the member will attempt to obtain cash or another form of currency from another member through fraudulent means.(4)MemberThe term member means an individual who—(A)submits to an online dating service provider the information required by the provider to establish an account or profile on the online dating service; and(B)is allowed by the provider to establish such an account or profile.(5)Online dating serviceThe term online dating service means a service that—(A)is provided through a website or a mobile application; and(B)offers members access to dating or romantic relationships with other members by arranging or facilitating the social introduction of members.(6)Online dating service providerThe term online dating service provider means a person engaged in the business of offering an online dating service.(7)StateThe term State means each State of the United States, the District of Columbia, each commonwealth, territory, or possession of the United States, and each federally recognized Indian Tribe.(e)Effective dateThis section shall take effect on the date that is 1 year after the date of the enactment of this Act.Passed the House of Representatives June 23, 2025.Kevin F. McCumber,Clerk.June 17, 2026Read twice and placed on the calendar
119 HR 2481 RH: Romance Scam Prevention Act U.S. House of Representatives 2025-06-12 text/xml EN Pursuant to Title 17 Section 105 of the United States Code, this file is not subject to copyright protection and is in the public domain. IBUnion Calendar No. 119119th CONGRESS1st SessionH. R. 2481[Report No. 119–153]IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVESMarch 31, 2025Mr. Valadao (for himself, Ms. Pettersen, Mr. Goldman of Texas, and Mr. Suozzi) introduced the following bill; which was referred to the Committee on Energy and CommerceJune 12, 2025Additional sponsors: Mr. Harder of California, Mr. Ciscomani, Ms. Lee of Nevada, Mr. Joyce of Ohio, Mr. Shreve, and Mr. LawlerJune 12, 2025Committed to the Committee of the Whole House on the State of the Union and ordered to be printedA BILLTo require online dating service providers to provide fraud ban notifications to online dating service members, and for other purposes.1.Short titleThis Act may be cited as the Romance Scam Prevention Act.2.Romance scam prevention(a)Fraud ban notification(1)In generalAn online dating service provider shall provide to a member of the online dating service a fraud ban notification if the member has received a message through the online dating service from a banned member of the online dating service.(2)Required contentsA fraud ban notification under paragraph (1) shall include the following:(A)The username or other profile identifier of the banned member, as well as the most recent time when the member to whom the notification is being provided sent or received a message through the online dating service to or from the banned member.(B)A statement, as applicable, that the banned member identified in subparagraph (A) may have been using a false identity or attempting to defraud members.(C)A statement that a member should not send cash or another form of currency or personal financial information to another member.(D)Information regarding best practices to avoid online fraud or being defrauded by a member of an online dating service, which may be provided through a link to another web page or disclosure.(E)Contact information to reach the customer service department of the online dating service provider.(3)Manner and timing(A)MannerA fraud ban notification under paragraph (1) shall be—(i)clear and conspicuous; and(ii)provided by email, text message, or, if consented to by the member receiving the fraud ban notification, other appropriate means of communication.(B)Timing(i)In generalExcept as provided in clauses (ii) and (iii), an online dating service provider shall provide a fraud ban notification under paragraph (1) not later than 24 hours after the fraud ban is initiated against the banned member.(ii)Delay based on judgment of providerIf, in the judgment of the online dating service provider, the circumstances require a fraud ban notification under paragraph (1) to be provided after the 24-hour period described in clause (i), the online dating service provider shall, except as provided in clause (iii), provide the notification not later than 3 days after the day on which the fraud ban is initiated against the banned member.(iii)Delay upon request of law enforcement officialIf, due to an ongoing investigation, a law enforcement official requests an online dating service provider to delay providing a fraud ban notification under paragraph (1) beyond the time when the notification is required to be provided under clause (i) or (ii), the online dating service provider—(I)may not provide the notification before the end of the period of delay (including any extension of such period) requested by the law enforcement official; and(II)shall provide the notification not later than 3 days after the last day of the period of delay (including any extension of such period) requested by the law enforcement official.(4)Safe harbor applicabilityAn online dating service provider is not liable to a member, a banned member, or a former member for a claim based on an online dating service provider’s action to comply with the requirements for providing a fraud ban notification under this subsection. (b)Enforcement(1)Enforcement by the Commission(A)Unfair or deceptive acts or practicesA violation of this section or a regulation promulgated under this section shall be treated as a violation of a rule defining an unfair or deceptive act or practice under section 18(a)(1)(B) of the Federal Trade Commission Act (15 U.S.C. 57a(a)(1)(B)).(B)Powers of commission(i)In generalThe Commission shall enforce this section in the same manner, by the same means, and with the same jurisdiction, powers, and duties as though all applicable terms and provisions of the Federal Trade Commission Act (15 U.S.C. 41 et seq.) were incorporated into and made a part of this section.(ii)Privileges and immunitiesAny person who violates this section shall be subject to the penalties and entitled to the privileges and immunities provided in the Federal Trade Commission Act.(iii)Authority preservedNothing in this section may be construed to limit the authority of the Commission under any other provision of law.(2)Enforcement by States(A)In generalSubject to subparagraph (B), in any case in which the attorney general of a State has reason to believe that an interest of the residents of the State has been or is threatened or adversely affected by the engagement of any person in an act or practice that violates this section, the attorney general of the State may, as parens patriae, bring a civil action on behalf of the residents of the State in an appropriate district court of the United States to obtain appropriate relief. (B)Rights of the Commission(i)Notice to the Commission(I)In generalExcept as provided in subclause (III), before initiating a civil action under subparagraph (A), the attorney general of a State shall notify the Commission in writing that the attorney general intends to bring such civil action.(II)ContentsThe notification required by subclause (I) shall include a copy of the complaint to be filed to initiate the civil action.(III)ExceptionIf it is not feasible for the attorney general of a State to provide the notification required by subclause (I) before initiating a civil action under subparagraph (A), the attorney general shall notify the Commission immediately upon instituting the civil action.(ii)Intervention by the CommissionUpon receiving the notice required by clause (i)(I), the Commission may intervene in the civil action and, upon intervening—(I)be heard on all matters arising in the civil action; and(II)file petitions for appeal of a decision in the civil action.(C)Limitation on State action while Federal action is pendingIf the Commission has instituted a civil action for a violation of this section or a regulation promulgated under this section, no attorney general of a State may bring an action under subparagraph (A) during the pendency of that action against any defendant named in the complaint of the Commission for any violation of this section or a regulation promulgated under this section alleged in the complaint.(D)Rule of constructionFor purposes of bringing a civil action under this subsection, nothing in this subsection may be construed to prevent the attorney general of a State from exercising the powers conferred on the attorney general by the laws of the State to conduct investigations, to administer oaths or affirmations, or to compel the attendance of witnesses or the production of documentary or other evidence.(E)Actions by other State officialsIn addition to a civil action brought by an attorney general under subparagraph (A), any other consumer protection officer of a State who is authorized by the State to do so may bring a civil action under subparagraph (A), subject to the same requirements and limitations that apply under this paragraph to a civil action brought by an attorney general.(c)One national standard(1)In generalA State, or political subdivision thereof, may not maintain, enforce, prescribe, or continue in effect a provision of any law, rule, regulation, requirement, or standard having the force and effect of law of the State, or political subdivision of the State, that requires an online dating service provider to notify, prohibits an online dating service provider from notifying, or otherwise affects the manner in which an online dating service provider is required or permitted to notify, a member of the online dating service that the member has received a message from or sent a message to a member whose account or profile on the online dating service is the subject of a fraud ban through the online dating service.(2)Rule of constructionThis subsection may not be construed to preempt any law of a State or political subdivision of a State relating to contracts or torts.(d)DefinitionsIn this section:(1)Banned memberThe term banned member means a member of an online dating service whose account or profile on the online dating service is the subject of a fraud ban.(2)CommissionThe term Commission means the Federal Trade Commission.(3)Fraud banThe term fraud ban means the termination or suspension of the account or profile of a member of an online dating service because, in the judgment of the online dating service provider, there is a significant risk the member will attempt to obtain cash or another form of currency from another member through fraudulent means.(4)MemberThe term member means an individual who—(A)submits to an online dating service provider the information required by the provider to establish an account or profile on the online dating service; and(B)is allowed by the provider to establish such an account or profile.(5)Online dating serviceThe term online dating service means a service that—(A)is provided through a website or a mobile application; and(B)offers members access to dating or romantic relationships with other members by arranging or facilitating the social introduction of members.(6)Online dating service providerThe term online dating service provider means a person engaged in the business of offering an online dating service.(7)StateThe term State means each State of the United States, the District of Columbia, each commonwealth, territory, or possession of the United States, and each federally recognized Indian Tribe.(e)Effective dateThis section shall take effect on the date that is 1 year after the date of the enactment of this Act.June 12, 2025Committed to the Committee of the Whole House on the State of the Union and ordered to be printed
The bill's own words, from our database (synced from the GPO BILLS XML); paragraph breaks added at the bill's section boundaries, nothing else changed.
| Date | Chamber | All Actions |
|---|---|---|
| 03/31/2025 | Library of Congress | Introduced in House |
| 03/31/2025 | Library of Congress | Introduced in House |
| 03/31/2025 | House floor actions | Referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce. |
| 04/08/2025 | House committee actions | Committee Consideration and Mark-up Session Held |
| 04/08/2025 | House committee actions | Ordered to be Reported by Voice Vote. |
| 06/12/2025 | Library of Congress | Reported by the Committee on Energy and Commerce. H. Rept. 119-153. |
| 06/12/2025 | House floor actions | Reported by the Committee on Energy and Commerce. H. Rept. 119-153. |
| 06/12/2025 | House floor actions | Placed on the Union Calendar, Calendar No. 119. |
| 06/23/2025 | House floor actions | Mr. Bilirakis moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill. |
| 06/23/2025 | House floor actions | Considered under suspension of the rules. (consideration: CR H2848-2850) |
| 06/23/2025 | House floor actions | DEBATE - The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 2481. |
| 06/23/2025 | Library of Congress | Passed/agreed to in House: On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill Agreed to by voice vote. (text: CR H2848-2849) |
| 06/23/2025 | House floor actions | On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill Agreed to by voice vote. (text: CR H2848-2849) |
| 06/23/2025 | House floor actions | Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection. |
| 06/24/2025 | Senate | Received in the Senate. |
| 06/17/2026 | Senate | Read twice. Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 438. |
| Title Type | Title |
|---|---|
| Official Titles from EH (Engrossed in House) bill text | To require online dating service providers to provide fraud ban notifications to online dating service members, and for other purposes. |
| Short Title(s) from PCS (Placed on Senate Calendar) bill text | Romance Scam Prevention Act |
| Short Title(s) as Passed House | Romance Scam Prevention Act |
| Short Title(s) as Reported to House | Romance Scam Prevention Act |
| Display Title | Romance Scam Prevention Act |
| Short Title(s) as Introduced | Romance Scam Prevention Act |
| Official Title as Introduced | To require online dating service providers to provide fraud ban notifications to online dating service members, and for other purposes. |
There are no amendments to this bill.
* = Original cosponsor
| Committee | Activity |
|---|---|
| House - Energy and Commerce Committee | 06/12/2025 Reported By |
| House - Energy and Commerce Committee | 04/08/2025 Markup By |
| House - Energy and Commerce Committee | 03/31/2025 Referred To |
No related bill information was received for H.R. 2481.
Policy Area: Commerce
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