Maryland HB952 regulates companion chatbots by requiring operators to establish protocols for minors, report data to the Office of Suicide.

Maryland HB952 introduces regulations for companion chatbots, requiring operators to establish protocols for minors, including preventing exposure to sexually explicit content and referring users with suicidal ideation to crisis services. Operators must also report data to the Office of Suicide Prevention annually and display warnings about chatbot limitations. Violations of these provisions are considered unfair, abusive, or deceptive trade practices under the Maryland Consumer Protection Act.

Maryland HB952 regulates companion chatbots by requiring operators to establish protocols for minors, report data to the Office of Suicide.

Maryland HB952 introduces regulations for companion chatbots, requiring operators to establish protocols for minors, including preventing exposure to sexually explicit content and referring users with suicidal ideation to crisis services. Operators must also report data to the Office of Suicide Prevention annually and display warnings about chatbot limitations. Violations of these provisions are considered unfair, abusive, or deceptive trade practices under the Maryland Consumer Protection Act.