On October 13, 2025, California Governor Gavin Newsom signed SB 243, establishing the state as the first in the U.S. to regulate AI companion chatbots. This law aims to safeguard children and vulnerable users from the dangers associated with these technologies. It mandates that companies implement safety protocols, including age verification and warnings about the nature of chatbot interactions. The legislation was prompted by tragic events, including the suicide of a teenager after engaging with AI chatbots, underscoring the need for accountability in the tech industry. Companies must also create protocols for addressing self-harm and provide statistics to the Department of Public Health. The law will take effect on January 1, 2026, and includes penalties for illegal deepfakes. This move follows other recent regulations in California aimed at increasing transparency and safety in AI technologies.