Hawaii requires accessible technology at public accommodations

The Hawaii Civil Rights Commission adopts rules for accessible information and communication technology. The rules implement the prohibition on requiring inaccessible technology at places of public accommodation. The rules must be consistent with the federal Title II web accessibility framework as it stood on June 24, 2024. The Act took effect upon approval on July 14, 2026.

A place of public accommodation commits unlawful discrimination when it requires a person with a disability to use technology that the person cannot access. It covers a person with a disability seeking full and equal enjoyment of a place of public accommodation and information related to its offerings. The rule applies when inaccessible technology is required to access the place’s goods, services, facilities, privileges, advantages, accommodations, or related information. The Act took effect upon approval on July 14, 2026.

The Civil Rights Commission processes complaints alleging violations of the digital accessibility rules. This applies to complaints alleging violations of the rules adopted under the digital accessibility section. Rule violations count as unlawful discriminatory practices and are subject to remedies available under the chapter. The rule violation provisions apply when the commission’s rules are adopted.