BREAKING: California Governor Gavin Newsom has just signed groundbreaking legislation that will significantly change the way artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots operate. Effective January 1, 2027, the new law, known as SB 243, mandates that chatbots must provide “clear and conspicuous” notifications indicating they are not human.
This urgent move comes as concerns grow over the influence of technology on children and mental health. The law requires chatbots interacting with minors to remind them every three hours to take breaks, aiming to protect young users from excessive screen time. Furthermore, it prohibits these chatbots from generating sexually explicit content, a critical measure to safeguard children.
In a statement, Governor Newsom emphasized,
“Emerging technology like chatbots and social media can inspire, educate and connect — but without real guardrails, technology can also exploit, mislead, and endanger our kids.”
The new regulations extend beyond just SB 243. The package of tech legislation includes the AI Transparency Act (AB 853), which obligates large platforms to disclose when AI is used to generate content. This move aims to enhance transparency in digital interactions, a critical factor as AI continues to evolve.
In addition, AB 56 requires social media platforms to issue timely warnings to minors about potential mental health risks associated with their apps. Meanwhile, AB 621 increases penalties for companies that distribute “deepfake” pornography, addressing a growing concern about digital deception. Lastly, AB 1043 mandates device makers, including major players like Apple and Google, to implement age verification tools in their app stores.
Despite these laws being limited to California, experts anticipate that major tech companies will adopt these guidelines nationwide due to California’s significant market influence. This trend often leads to similar legislation being implemented across the United States, especially when it comes to protecting children online.
As these regulations begin to take shape, stakeholders in tech and education must stay alert for potential legal challenges that could alter or delay the implementation of these important safeguards. The balance between protecting children and maintaining adult rights remains a contentious issue, and how this unfolds will be closely monitored.
With these developments, California is setting a precedent for regulating AI and social media, aiming to create a safer digital environment for its youth. For parents, educators, and tech users, these changes signal a transformative shift in how technology interacts with society. Stay tuned for more updates on this unfolding story.
