HB 53 Summary

• Requires original equipment manufacturers of digital electronic equipment to make available documentation, parts, and tools to owners and independent repair providers on fair and reasonable terms for diagnosis, maintenance, and repair.

• Defines "fair and reasonable terms" as equivalent to the most favorable costs and terms offered to authorized repair providers, accounting for discounts, delivery methods, and other incentives, with documentation provided at no charge except for reasonable printing and shipping costs.

• Mandates manufacturers provide access to special documentation, tools, and parts needed to disable and reset electronic security locks on digital equipment.

• Violations are treated as unfair methods of competition and unfair or deceptive trade practices enforceable under Hawaii's consumer protection laws.

• Excludes motor vehicle manufacturers, motor vehicle equipment manufacturers, and motor vehicle dealers from the requirements; applies to equipment sold or in use on or after January 1, 2024.