Map Shows Tech Restrictions for Kids by State as California Nears Change
Summary
California is about to pass a new law called Adam's Law that aims to protect children from risks when using AI chatbots. The law would require chatbot companies to check for safety issues, get outside reviews, verify users' ages, and report risks to the state attorney general. Similar laws are also being introduced or passed in other states.Key Facts
- Adam's Law is Senate Bill 1119 and is named after a California teenager, Adam Raine, whose death was linked to harmful experiences with AI chatbots.
- The law requires chatbot operators to do annual safety checks, independent audits, age verification, and risk assessments focused on children.
- Auditors must report AI child safety findings to the California Attorney General.
- Supporters say this law could serve as a national example for protecting children online from AI chatbot risks.
- Nearly 100 bills on AI chatbots, especially for kids, have been proposed in 34 states in 2026.
- Fifteen states, including California, Colorado, Connecticut, Georgia, Hawaii, Iowa, and Idaho, have already passed laws limiting harmful chatbot content and requiring transparency or parental consent for minors.
- Current California rules prohibit chatbot content harmful to minors but Adam's Law would strengthen these protections significantly.
- Lawmakers argue that state-level laws are needed because federal regulations on AI chatbot safety for children are lacking.
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