OR California It has put in place today (13.10.2025) laws that, for the first time in the US, set rules on chatbots, its programs Artificial intelligence simulating human communication, in the wake of adolescent suicides that had “relationship” with these tools, said state governor Gavin Newsom.
Defying the pressures of the White House, opposed to the imposition of rules on artificial intelligence, the California Governor, signed a series of legislation that impose, inter alia, on companies confirming the age of users, posting regular warning messages and applying prevention.
“We have seen truly horrible, tragic examples of young people who fell victim to rules without rules and we will not stay with their hands crossed while these businesses act without limits and without giving an account,” Newsom said in a statement.
One of the laws, the so -called SB243, concerns the imposition of rules on chatbots that play the role of “partner” or “trusted”, such as those developed by replika or character.ai platforms.
The parents of a 14 -year -old Syel, who committed suicide in 2024 after falling in love with a Chatbot inspired by the Game of Thrones television series, allegedly reinforced his suicidal thoughts, have appealed to the latter.
“We can continue to lead in the field of TN (…) but we have to act responsibly, protecting our children,” added the California governor, the state where the main giants in the sector, such as Openai (Chatgpt), Google (Gemini) and XAI (Grok), are hosted.
“Children’s safety is not for sale.” — Gov. Gavin Newsom
California just passed the nation’s first law regulating AI companion chatbots.Big step for ethical AI
Read more: https://t.co/XVOUsviam1#AI #TechNews #ChatbotRegulation
— AI Content Minds (@AIContentMinds) October 13, 2025
In addition to verifying the age of the user, platforms should post regularly posting messages reminding users that their interlocutor is a machine (every three hours for minors). They are also obliged to identify suicidal thoughts, provide access to prevention programs, and give authorities statistics on this issue.
“The technology industry is encouraged to attract the attention of young people to the detriment of their relationships in the real world,” said Senator Steve Pandila, the inspiration of the law.
“Emerging technologies, such as chatbots and social networks, can be a source of inspiration, train and connect people but without real precautionary measures, they can also exploit, seduce and endanger our children,” the ruler insisted.
In the US there are no rules at national level that limit the dangers associated with TN and the White House is trying to prevent states from applying their own rules.