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 1246 prohibits state agencies and local governments from signing agreements with private entities that require secrecy about data center projects. It mandates that any agreement for building, developing, or locating a data center must be treated as a public record, making its terms accessible to the public. The bill defines a data center as a facility storing, processing, or managing electronic data. This ensures transparency by preventing confidential clauses in such agreements, allowing public access to project details without secrecy restrictions.
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approved before January 1, 2026, expire July 1, 2026, and vendors must cover costs if manual recounts are needed due to outdated equipment.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 1005 exempts sales and use taxes on data center equipment and software for businesses operating qualified data centers in South Dakota. It specifically covers servers, cooling systems, power infrastructure, security systems, and related technology used in facilities meeting strict criteria (e.g., built between 2026-2036, meeting fire safety standards). Qualified businesses must verify eligibility with the Department of Revenue and maintain compliance with electric utility agreements and water usage requirements. The tax exemption lasts 50 years from the facility's construction permit date. This directly affects data center operators seeking to reduce operational costs in South Dakota.
