Bill > H5114

This bill establishes new regulations for "connected consumer products," which are devices intended for consumer use that can connect to the internet, including their associated apps and cloud services. Starting January 1, 2026, manufacturers must clearly disclose a "minimum guaranteed support period" for these products, detailing how long they will provide "technical support" (assistance with issues), "security updates" (fixes for vulnerabilities), and bug fixes for the essential software, firmware (low-level software embedded in hardware), and hardware. This disclosure must be made at the "point of sale" (where the product is purchased), on the packaging, and on the manufacturer's website, specifying either an "end-of-life" date or the duration of support from the sale date. Manufacturers cannot shorten this disclosed support period after a sale but can extend it. At least six months before the support period ends, manufacturers must notify consumers about the upcoming "end-of-life," including potential consequences like feature loss or security risks, through in-product messages, email, or website postings. Additionally, "Internet service providers" (ISPs) that supply connected devices must ensure these products continue to receive security updates while in use or replace them at no cost if they reach their end-of-life. Violations of these provisions will be considered unfair or deceptive practices, allowing the Attorney General to enforce the chapter and consumers to sue for damages, including repair costs, replacement costs, and other financial losses.

Labor and Employment

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H5114