Disruption

New York lawmakers expand chatbot protections for kids

The novel design-based bill aims to prohibit ‘unsafe’ features by focusing on specific elements.
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)

New York lawmakers approved what advocates call a “nation-leading” bill aimed at protecting children from artificial intelligence companion chatbots, a response to reports of suicides and other harms.

The Senate passed the bill unanimously Thursday followed by a vote in the Assembly on Friday ahead of the Legislature’s adjournment. 

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