Bill > HB1198

This bill establishes new legal requirements for commercial entities publishing or distributing material harmful to minors on the internet. The bill defines key terms such as "commercial entity" (which includes corporations and other business structures), "interactive computer service" (like websites and mobile apps), and "material harmful to minors" (content with sexually explicit or offensive material that lacks serious value for minors). Specifically, the bill mandates that commercial entities with websites containing a substantial portion of such material must verify the age of users through commercially available databases or reasonable verification methods to ensure users are 18 or older. Entities that fail to comply can be subject to a $250 civil penalty per violation, potential damages resulting from a minor's access to harmful material, and reasonable attorney fees. The bill allows the Attorney General or a minor's parent/guardian to bring an action against non-compliant entities, and explicitly states that internet service providers will not be held liable under this law. The jurisdiction for such actions will be in district court, and the law will take effect upon its approval.

Business and Industry

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=1198&year=2026