Artificial Intelligence safety act passed by Hawaiʻi State Legislature

The Hawaiʻi State Legislature on Wednesday passed the Artificial Intelligence Disclosure and Safety Act that establishes some of the nation’s first consumer protections and transparency requirements for conversational artificial intelligence services, particularly for minors and individuals seeking mental health or crisis support.

The landmark legislation requires operators of conversational artificial intelligence platforms to clearly disclose when users are interacting with artificial intelligence rather than a human.

Additional safeguards are established for minors, including protections against manipulative engagement techniques and sexually explicit content. Operators must also provide tools for parents and guardians to manage screen time and account settings.

The bill also requires operators to implement protocols that respond appropriately to users expressing suicidal ideation or self-harm by directing them toward crisis intervention resources such as suicide hotlines and crisis text lines.

“This legislation is about ensuring that as artificial intelligence becomes more integrated into everyday life, basic protections remain in place for the people using these systems—especially our young people,” said Sen. Jarrett Keohokalole, Chair of the Senate Committee on Commerce and Consumer Protection.

“AI technology is evolving rapidly, and Hawaiʻi has an opportunity to lead with thoughtful, balanced policy that prioritizes transparency, accountability and public safety while still allowing innovation to move forward.”

Rep. Trish La Chica, Vice Chair of the House Committee on Education, added: “What sets Hawaiʻi’s bill apart is that unlike laws passed in some other states, it does not create broad carveouts for certain AI products or platforms.”

She said in many cases, some of the AI tools most widely used by children are exempted from oversight before protections begin.

“Hawaiʻi is joining a growing national movement that sends a clear message: innovation should not come at the expense of the safety and well-being of our children,” La Chica said.

Beginning Jan. 1, 2028, operators also will be required to submit annual reports to the Department of Health outlining crisis intervention referral activity and protocols used to address suicidal ideation and harmful interactions.

Violations of the measure will be treated as unfair or deceptive acts or practices under state law and may be enforced by the Department of the Attorney General and the Office of Consumer Protection.

The bill, SB3001 CD1, now advances to the governor for consideration.