What happened
New York Governor Kathy Hochul on Wednesday signed a law restricting how AI chatbots interact with children. The measure explicitly bans certain behaviors toward users under 18.
Prohibited behaviors
- A chatbot presenting itself as human or giving the impression that it is human
- Building an emotionally dependent relationship with a child
- Encouraging the user to harm themselves
- Holding sexual conversations
These restrictions will apply to AI chat services operating within the state.
Second law: baby monitors
Hochul also approved a separate law on baby monitor security the same day. The measure aims to ensure baby monitor products meet safety requirements.
Why it matters
New York, one of the most populous US states, joins the ranks of states imposing binding rules on AI chatbots. The regulation puts the debate over safety and transparency in children's interactions with AI back on the agenda.
