S.B. 1496 Summary

• Makes it an unlawful discriminatory practice for places of public accommodation to deny persons with disabilities full and equal enjoyment of goods, services, facilities, privileges, advantages, or accommodations using information and communication technology intended for public use.

• Defines "accessible" as the ability to receive, use, and manipulate data and operate controls in information and communication technology in a manner equivalent to individuals without disabilities.

• Adds four new definitions: "accessible," "application," "information and communication technology," and "website" to Hawaii Revised Statutes Section 489-2.

• Clarifies that a facility is considered a place of public accommodation regardless of whether its presence in the State is physical or digital, expanding the definition to include digital-only businesses.

• Requires places of public accommodation to ensure information and communication technology is accessible starting July 1, 2026, with websites meeting Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 2.1 Level AA deemed accessible, allowing exceptions only for undue burden or fundamental alteration.