In one paragraph
Hawaii's SB 640 (2025) would have added a part to HRS chapter 481B making it unlawful in a commercial transaction to use an AI chatbot that may mislead a reasonable person into thinking they are talking to a natural person unless a clear and conspicuous disclosure is given. Violations would be unfair or deceptive acts, with private suits (greater of $1,000 or treble damages), attorney general action and civil penalties up to $5,000,000. The Senate committees CPN and LBT deferred it February 7, 2025; it was carried over to 2026 with no further action and died.
Plain-English summary, written with AI assistance. The official text controls.
What it means for business
None: the bill did not pass. It would have required businesses using chatbots with consumers to disclose it and exposed them to suits and penalties.
Key provisions
- Would bar anyone in a commercial transaction from using a chatbot in a text or spoken conversation in a way that may mislead a reasonable person into believing they are talking to a natural person, unless they first give a clear and conspicuous disclosure
- A violation would be an unfair or deceptive act or practice under chapter 481B
- Injured persons could recover the greater of $1,000 or threefold damages plus attorneys' fees, or seek an injunction; class action damages capped at $10,000,000
- The attorney general could petition for an injunction; violators would face a civil penalty of up to $5,000,000
- Would have taken effect upon approval; deferred by LBT and CPN February 7, 2025, carried over December 8, 2025, never enacted
Latest legislative action
Dec 8, 2025. Carried over to 2026 Regular Session.
Sponsors (showing 5 of 8)
| Name | Role | District |
|---|---|---|
| Carol Fukunaga D | Sponsor | SD-011 |
| Glenn Wakai D | Sponsor | SD-015 |
| Jarrett Keohokalole D | Sponsor | SD-024 |
| Joy San Buenaventura D | Sponsor | SD-002 |
| Kurt Fevella R | Sponsor | SD-020 |
Topics and industries
Related topics
Affected industries
This page is general information, not legal advice. Summaries are AI-assisted and may contain errors; read the statute for the controlling text and talk to a lawyer about your situation. Full disclaimer · Report an error