California's SB 243, aimed at regulating AI companion chatbots to protect minors, has gained bipartisan support in the State Assembly and is set for a final vote in the Senate. The bill mandates companies to implement safety protocols and allows users to sue for damages up to $1,000 per violation. State Senator Steve Padilla states, "We can support innovation...and provide reasonable safeguards." If signed by Governor Gavin Newsom, the law takes effect January 1, 2026.