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.
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.