Technology

This bill amends existing state consumer protection laws to add requirements for age verification and parental consent for application stores, which are digital platforms where users download software applications. The legislation would require these stores to verify the age of users and obtain parental consent from minors before allowing them to access or download applications. It also establishes penalties for businesses that fail to comply with these new verification and consent requirements. The bill does not create new consumer protection categories but rather modifies existing deceptive trade practices provisions to include digital application store compliance.

HB 1237 requires app stores and developers to verify the age of users before they can access applications, with specific rules for children under 16. App stores must determine age, obtain parental consent for minors, provide digital age signals (e.g., 13-15 or 16-17), and enable parental controls for time limits and activity monitoring. The law directly affects app stores (manufacturers), app developers, and users under 16, applying to platforms distributing apps like mobile app stores. Violations could result in $5,000 civil penalties per affected child, enforced by state attorneys general.

HB 1314 modifies South Dakota's election equipment rules to enhance security and standardization. It prohibits internet-connected voting systems, requires vendors to submit software source code for independent review before certification, and mandates annual system updates. The bill directly affects election vendors (who must provide source code and maintain systems), the State Board of Elections (which must certify systems), and local jurisdictions (which must use updated systems or conduct manual counts). Systems approved before January 1, 2026, expire July 1, 2026, and vendors must cover costs if manual recounts are needed due to outdated equipment.

HB 1229 requires app stores (manufacturers) and app developers to include specific features for user transparency. Specifically, app stores must list all purchasable goods/services with prices on app pages, and developers must provide an easy-to-access feature allowing users to view those prices and cancel subscriptions. The bill applies to all app stores and developers operating in South Dakota, with requirements deemed "technologically feasible." Violations trigger a 90-day cure period before the attorney general can impose civil penalties up to $1,000 per incident. The law focuses on mandatory disclosure and user control, not on creating new private legal claims.