Chatbots aren’t new. In fact, you could almost consider early chatbots to be a precursor to the AI we know today. However, as more companies are turning to AI to give their chatbots a much-needed brain boost, there are dangers involved in that as well. This is why California is the first state in the US to introduce new laws designed to regulate AI chatbots .
California wants to regulate AI chatbots
Governor Gavin Newsom recently signed Senate Bill 243 (SB 243), making California the first state to implement comprehensive safety protocols for AI chatbots. The landmark legislation targets major chatbot operators including OpenAI and Meta. It now requires these companies to implement specific protections for minors using their platforms.
Under the new law, chatbot companies must notify minors that they’re interacting with AI, not a human. The legislation also mandates regular breaks during conversations. This will address concerns about excessive screen time and unhealthy attachment to AI companions. These requirements aim to maintain awareness and prevent young users from developing unrealistic relationships with artificial intelligence.
The bill also requires companies to prevent their California AI chatbots from generating harmful content related to suicide , self-harm, or sexually explicit material. It will also allow victims of deepfake pornography to seek civil relief of up to $250,000.
According to Newsom, “Emerging technology like chatbots and social media can inspire, educate, and connect – but without real guardrails, technology can also exploit, mislead, and endanger our kids. We’ve seen some truly horrific and tragic examples of young people harmed by unregulated tech, and we won’t stand by while companies continue without necessary limits and accountability.”
The regulation of AI
California’s ability to enact these protections nearly faced a significant obstacle. President Trump’s “One Big Beautiful Bill,” signed in July 2025, initially included a provision that would have barred states from enacting their own AI regulations for 10 years. However, the 10-year ban on state AI regulation faced opposition from lawmakers across both parties who advocated for preserving state regulatory authority.
There are those who believe that regulation will slow down the advancement of AI. However, Newsom argues, “We can continue to lead in AI and technology, but we must do it responsibly — protecting our children every step of the way. Our children’s safety is not for sale.”
