HB 1185 Summary

• Creates chapter 12.1-27.3 requiring manufacturers, distributors, and sellers of internet-capable products to include active digital blocking capabilities that render obscene material, obscene performances, intimate images, prostitution hubs, and human trafficking websites inaccessible.

• Imposes a $20 one-time license fee to deactivate filters, requiring written request, face-to-face age verification (18+), and written warning acknowledgment; manufacturers must maintain filters through regular updates and operate reporting systems to address breached content.

• Classifies internet-distributing products (routers, cell phones, laptops, computers, gaming devices) as pornographic vending machines and makes selling unfiltered products to minors a class A misdemeanor.

• Directs collected filter deactivation fees to the crime victims restitution and gift fund for continuing appropriation to the attorney general for grants supporting human trafficking victim services and prevention programs.

• Amends section 54-23.4-05 to designate filter fee revenues for human trafficking victim assistance, except as otherwise appropriated by the legislature; provides immunity from criminal liability for compliant manufacturers as of August 1, 2017.