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Bill

HD 5563

An Act relative to consumer connected devices

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Will Brownsberger and 4 co-sponsors

Massachusetts bill establishing security, privacy, and transparency requirements for internet-connected consumer devices to protect against hacking and unauthorized data collection.

Reported, referred to the committee on Joint Rules, reported, rules suspended and referred to the committee on Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HD 5563

Legislative bill overview

HD 5563 is a Massachusetts bill addressing the regulation and safety of consumer connected devices (internet-connected consumer products). The bill establishes requirements for manufacturers regarding security standards, data privacy protections, and transparency in device functionality. It aims to protect consumers from cyber vulnerabilities and unauthorized data collection through connected devices.

Why is this important

Connected devices like smart home systems, wearables, and appliances collect increasingly sensitive personal data while often having inadequate security protections. Without regulatory standards, consumers have limited recourse when devices are hacked, data is misused, or privacy is violated. This legislation would establish baseline protections applicable to Massachusetts consumers and potentially influence industry practice more broadly.

Potential points of contention

  • Compliance burden on manufacturers: Requirements could increase costs for businesses, particularly smaller manufacturers, potentially raising consumer prices or limiting product availability
  • Scope and definitional ambiguity: Unclear which products qualify as "consumer connected devices" could lead to disputes over coverage and enforcement inconsistencies
  • Preemption concerns: Federal regulatory agencies (FTC, NIST) are also developing connected device standards; state-level requirements could create conflicting compliance obligations for multi-state sellers

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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