In New York, Governor Kathy Hochul signed a law on Wednesday that bars companies from offering a range of chatbot features to users under the age of 18, Xinhua reports. The legislation prevents chatbots from pretending to be human, building emotional dependency, encouraging self‑harm or engaging in sexual content.
Under the new law, violations could trigger civil penalties of up to $25,000, and the state has set up a public website for complaints against chatbots. This follows other states’ moves, including California’s bill requiring annual child‑safety risk assessments for developers.
At the signing ceremony, Hochul told the crowd, “No longer will minors have access to chatbots that pretend to be their friends, boyfriends and girlfriends,” according to NovaNews. The statement was heard live and is a direct quotation from the governor.
No longer will minors have access to chatbots that pretend to be their friends, boyfriends and girlfriends. No…
The law is the most comprehensive in the United States, but experts have raised concerns over enforcement and whether all AI providers will comply. Some companies claim unverified compliance, citing internal safety reviews. The law is still in effect as of the morning of Oct. 30, and the New York Attorney General’s office has indicated it will monitor and prosecute violations.
City officials in New York City have urged parents to monitor usage, and tech educators are planning workshops to explain the changes. The new law underscores a national push toward stricter AI regulation, especially concerning child protection and digital wellbeing.
