California SB243 regulates companion chatbots to protect minors and users expressing suicidal ideation.

California SB243 mandates that operators of companion chatbot platforms disclose to users that these platforms may not be suitable for minors. Operators must also annually report to the Office of Suicide Prevention on crisis service referrals, protocols for detecting suicidal ideation, and measures to prevent chatbot responses on such topics. For minor users, operators must disclose the artificial nature of the chatbot, remind them to take breaks, and prevent chatbots from producing sexually explicit content.

California SB243 regulates companion chatbots to protect minors and users expressing suicidal ideation.

California SB243 mandates that operators of companion chatbot platforms disclose to users that these platforms may not be suitable for minors. Operators must also annually report to the Office of Suicide Prevention on crisis service referrals, protocols for detecting suicidal ideation, and measures to prevent chatbot responses on such topics. For minor users, operators must disclose the artificial nature of the chatbot, remind them to take breaks, and prevent chatbots from producing sexually explicit content.