The California State Assembly has passed SB 243, a bill aimed at regulating AI companion chatbots to protect minors. The legislation mandates safety protocols and accountability for chatbot operators, requiring them to inform users they are interacting with AI. Following the suicide of a teenager linked to chatbot interactions, the bill seeks to prevent harmful content exposure and ensure transparency in AI operations. If signed into law, it will take effect on January 1, 2026.

The California State Assembly has passed SB 243, a bill aimed at regulating AI companion chatbots to protect minors. The legislation mandates safety protocols and accountability for chatbot operators, requiring them to inform users they are interacting with AI. Following the suicide of a teenager linked to chatbot interactions, the bill seeks to prevent harmful content exposure and ensure transparency in AI operations. If signed into law, it will take effect on January 1, 2026.