Bill > SB1542

This bill establishes comprehensive age verification and parental control requirements for app stores and app developers operating in Hawaii, effective July 1, 2027. The legislation mandates that app store providers determine and verify the age category of each user, create mechanisms for parents to block unsuitable apps, and obtain verifiable parental consent before allowing minors to use app stores or download apps. App store providers must display clear age ratings and content descriptions for apps, and provide parents with tools to set content filters and usage limits on mobile devices. App developers are required to use age verification interfaces, provide time restriction features, and identify appropriate age categories for their apps. The bill defines four age categories: young child (under 13), child (13-15), teenager (16-17), and adult (18+), and establishes that violations will be considered unfair or deceptive practices under existing consumer protection laws. The Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs is tasked with adopting implementing rules by July 1, 2026, with the goal of protecting minors from accessing age-inappropriate or potentially harmful digital content and services.

Business and Industry

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=1542&year=2026