California Moves to Regulate AI Chatbots Amid Mental Health Worries

Jul 09, 2025
PYMNTS.com
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Summary

California propels groundbreaking legislation, SB 243, mandating suicide prevention protocols, usage transparency, and third-party audits for AI companion chatbots, sparking debates over mental health risks and industry concerns about overreach.

Key Points

  • California advances SB 243 to regulate AI companion chatbots over mental health concerns
  • The bill requires suicide prevention protocols, usage disclosures, and third-party audits for AI companions
  • Tech industry groups oppose the bill, calling its definition of AI companions 'overbroad'

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