California Governor Gavin Newsom has signed SB 243, a landmark bill regulating AI companion chatbots and setting a precedent for the rest of the United States. The law, effective January 1, 2026, requires AI companies to implement safety protocols to protect minors and vulnerable users from potential harm. This includes verifying users' ages, displaying warnings, and disclosing that interactions are artificially generated.
The legislation also mandates that chatbots cannot present themselves as medical professionals and must offer break reminders to minors. Furthermore, companies must prevent their AI chatbots from generating harmful content related to suicide, self-harm, or sexually explicit material. Victims of deepfake pornography will also be able to seek civil relief of up to $250,000.
The bill was prompted by several incidents, including the tragic death of teenager Adam Raine, who died by suicide after prolonged conversations with OpenAI's ChatGPT. Lawmakers aimed to address concerns about AI's impact on children and hold companies accountable for their products. Governor Newsom emphasized the need for responsible AI development, stating, "We can continue to lead in AI and technology, but we must do it responsibly — protecting our children every step of the way".
California's move is expected to influence national AI policies and encourage other states to follow suit. The law demonstrates a growing recognition of AI as a societal tool requiring accountability and transparency. As Senator Padilla noted, "We've got to move quickly to not miss windows of opportunity before they disappear." This legislation marks a significant step towards ensuring AI development prioritizes user safety and well-being.
