HI SB1496

Prohibits places of public accommodation from denying persons with disabilities full and equal access to goods, services, and information through websites, apps, and other information and communication technology

Expands the definition of "place of public accommodation" to include businesses with a digital presence in Hawaii, not just physical locations

Requires public accommodations to ensure their digital communications are as effective for people with disabilities as for those without, beginning July 1, 2026

Establishes that websites meeting World Wide Web Consortium Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 Level AA will be deemed accessible and compliant

Provides exceptions when compliance would impose an undue burden or fundamentally alter the nature of the technology