Bill > SB149

This bill establishes new requirements for public accommodations to ensure digital accessibility for people with disabilities, specifically focusing on information and communication technology (ICT) like websites, mobile apps, and other digital platforms. The legislation expands the definition of "place of public accommodation" to include digital spaces and introduces new terms such as "accessible," "information and communication technology," "software application," and "website." Beginning July 1, 2026, public accommodations must ensure their digital platforms are fully accessible to individuals with disabilities, meaning users with disabilities can receive, use, and interact with digital content in a manner equivalent to users without disabilities. The bill mandates that digital communications and interactions must be as effective for people with disabilities as for those without disabilities, with websites meeting the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 2.1 Level AA being considered compliant. The law provides an exception if making digital platforms accessible would impose an undue burden or fundamentally alter the nature of the technology. The purpose is to prevent discrimination by ensuring people with disabilities have equal access to digital information and services provided by public accommodations.

Business and Industry

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=149&year=2025