California Regulates AI Companion Chatbots

California becomes first state to regulate AI companion chatbots with new safety laws for vulnerable users.
Matilda
California Regulates AI Companion Chatbots
California Becomes First State To Regulate AI Companion Chatbots California has made history. California becomes first state to regulate AI companion chatbots , setting a new national precedent for tech accountability and user safety in the age of artificial intelligence. Image Credits:Getty Images Governor Gavin Newsom signed Senate Bill 243 (SB 243) on Monday, marking the first law in the U.S. to mandate safety protocols for AI companion chatbot operators. The move targets major tech companies like Meta and OpenAI, as well as startups such as Character AI and Replika, holding them legally responsible if their chatbots fail to meet safety standards. Why California’s AI Companion Law Matters The new regulation is designed to protect children and vulnerable users from the emotional and psychological harms that can stem from unregulated AI companion chatbots. SB 243 was introduced earlier this year by state senators Steve Padilla and Josh Becker after several high-profile tragedies involving …