Starting September 1, 2025, the State of Texas will begin enforcing SB 650, The Deshawn Jagwan Act. This law requires all convenience stores, grocery stores, gas stations, and supermarkets selling alcohol to electronically scan every customer’s ID before completing the sale.
For Texas retailers, this is more than just a new regulation. It’s a shift in how alcohol sales must be handled, as fines and penalties will begin in 2027 for those who don’t comply.
So, what does SB 650 mean for your business, your customers, and your bottom line? Let’s break it down.
The bill was named after Deshawn Jagwan, a Texas high school senior who tragically lost his life in a car accident after purchasing alcohol with no ID check.
His mother, devastated by the preventable loss, advocated tirelessly for change. “No parent wants to feel what I feel, and I don’t want a parent to ever feel this,” she said while pushing lawmakers to take action.
With her persistence and the support of Senator Royce West, the Deshawn Jagwan Act was passed, ensuring that minors can no longer purchase alcohol undetected in Texas.
As of September 1, 2025, all alcohol retailers in Texas must electronically verify the age and validity of a customer’s ID.
The Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC) has introduced a two-year grace period (ending September 1, 2027) to allow retailers time to adapt before fines and penalties are enforced.
To stay compliant by 2027, Texas retailers must:
Ensuring you have an ID Verification device, such as Patronscan’s Guard +, or the Handheld 2.0, set up in your business will help retain your license and avoid additional costs.
Whether you operate in Dallas, Houston, Austin, San Antonio, Fort Worth, or smaller Texas towns, compliance with SB 650 is now part of doing business.
Retailers that fail to comply risk:
By implementing an ID scanner, you not only stay compliant but also protect your store from liability and reduce the risk of underage sales.
Some customers may worry about privacy when their ID is scanned. Here’s what they should know:
By choosing the right partner, you protect both your business and your customers’ privacy.
At Patronscan, we’ve scanned over 300 million identities across North America and are trusted by 2,000+ businesses from small convenience stores to national retail chains.
Here’s how we can help your business adapt to SB 650:
Texas may be the first state to require ID scanning for alcohol sales, but it likely won’t be the last. Similar bills are being considered in other states, including California, Florida, and New York.
By preparing now, you’ll be ahead of the curve. Protect your license, revenue, community, and shape a safer world.
Act now to avoid penalties in 2027. Contact Patronscan today and get your business ready for the future of ID scanning compliance.