Washington – California legislators wrap up their session this week and will consider measures aimed at online safety that could also have an impact on various companies innovating in artificial intelligence located in their state and around the country.
Two priorities under discussion involve chatbots with the goal of protecting younger users online. AB 1064 would effectively create a prohibition on any chatbot that could potentially be accessed by children. SB 243, meanwhile, is more targeted, proposing mandatory reporting requirements when people discuss self-harm with chatbots, plus a ban on addictive reward structures sometimes used to increase user engagement with the bots.
The Computer & Communications Industry Association understands that younger internet users warrant more protections online and supports media literacy programs and online tools that empower parents to make decisions on what is appropriate for their teenager.
The following can be attributed to Aodhan Downey, West Regional State Policy Manager at CCIA:
“California legislators are considering multiple pieces of landmark legislation aimed at regulating novel technologies like artificial intelligence and chatbots. Some measures, like AB 1064, would have drastic consequences that would stifle the innovation and educational opportunities for the children in California. SB 243 creates standards that chatbot service operators must follow in order to provide a safer environment for children, while also not creating an overbroad ban on AI products.”
