California governor signs laws establishing safeguards over AI chatbots

The laws will likely impact social media companies and websites offering services to California residents, including minors, using AI tools.

California Governor Gavin Newsom announced that the US state would establish regulatory safeguards for social media platforms and AI companion chatbots in an effort to protect children.

In a Monday notice, the governor’s office said Newsom had signed several bills into law that will require platforms to add age verification features, protocols to address suicide and self-harm, and warnings for companion chatbots. The AI bill, SB 243, was introduced by state Senators Steve Padilla and Josh Becker in January.

Padilla cited examples of children communicating with AI companion bots, allegedly resulting in some instances of encouraging suicide. The bill requires platforms to disclose to minors that the chatbots are AI-generated and may not be suitable for children, according to Padilla.

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