AI Chatbot Influence Under Scrutiny in California, NY (Correct)

California and New York lawmakers want to protect users, especially children, from interactions with chatbots that lead to self-harm or other dangers.

Measures in both states would require developers to install warnings to flag users about the limits of such technology, such as the fact they are not human. In California, first-of-its-kind legislation (SB 243) would establish additional restrictions for chatbot operators, such as third-party audits to ensure compliance.

Policymakers are increasingly concerned about how social media and the internet affect children’s mental health. Their scrutiny has now focused upon AI companions, chatbots designed to offer emotional interactions ...