New York law bans minors from using AI chatbots, requiring age verification and limiting emotional interactions
Chatbots cannot produce content that misleads minors into believing they possess human-like qualities or emotions.
They also cannot create outputs suggesting personal or professional relationships, or express personal opinions.
AI restrictions
Governor Kathy Hochul stated that minors will no longer access chatbots that simulate friendships or romantic relationships.
The law aims to protect sensitive information regarding minors’ emotional and physical health.
Other U.S. states, such as California, have introduced similar regulations, but New York’s law features some of the most comprehensive provisions.
Critics from Tech:NYC, a tech advocacy group, argue that the law’s vague language could hinder educational opportunities for children.
They emphasise the importance of balancing safety with access to learning tools.
AI companies like OpenAI and Anthropic have not publicly commented on the law.
Advocacy group Common Sense Media commended the legislation, calling it the most robust AI safety bill for children in the nation.
CEO Jim Steyer highlighted the bill’s importance in eliminating potentially harmful chatbot features for young users.
