Disruption

Chatbot risks prompt expansion of Kids Code bills

Legislation to address online safety is expected in at least a half dozen states in 2026.
(AP Illustration/Peter Hamlin)

The coalition behind a multi-year push for state Kids Code laws to protect youth online is expanding its model bill for 2026 to include chatbot protections, as concern grows that they are not safe for young people. 

It’s the latest signal that regulating human-like artificial intelligence chatbots will be a top issue when state lawmakers across the country reconvene in January.  

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