Disruption

Legislators prepare ’26 blitz on AI chatbot regulations

It comes in response to growing concerns over teen harm.
Bruce Perry, 17, demonstrates the possibilities of artificial intelligence by creating an AI companion on Character AI, Tuesday, July 15, 2025, in Russellville, Ark. (AP Photo/Katie Adkins)

This year marked just the beginning of a state-level drive to regulate companion chatbots.

The initial push led to laws being enacted in California and New York. State lawmakers and youth advocates are preparing a legislative blitz in 2026 that stretches far beyond those blue states.

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