OpenAI Backs California Ballot Initiative Requiring Age Verification and Data Protection for Children Using AI

Jan 12, 2026
Axios
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Summary

OpenAI partners with Common Sense Media to back California's Parents & Kids Safe AI Act ballot initiative, which would require age verification for minors using AI, ban targeted advertising to children, mandate company audits, and prohibit sharing kids' data without parental consent.

Key Points

  • OpenAI and Common Sense Media collaborate on California's Parents & Kids Safe AI Act ballot initiative to protect minors from harmful AI interactions and chatbots
  • The measure requires age verification, bans targeted advertising to children, mandates independent company audits, and prohibits sharing kids' data without parental consent
  • Companies face enforcement through California's attorney general and financial penalties, with signature gathering for ballot qualification expected to begin next month

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