California Governor Gavin Newsom on October 13, 2025, signed Senate Bill 243, the nation’s first law aimed specifically at “companion” AI chatbots. The measure requires operators to disclose that users are interacting with AI, implement protocols to detect and respond to suicidal ideation (including directing users to crisis resources), remind minors to take breaks at least every three hours, and prevent exposure to sexually explicit content; chatbots may not present themselves as health professionals. The law follows reports of harmful chatbot interactions and applies to consumer-facing AI companions across major platforms, taking effect January 1, 2026.
Newsom signed SB 243 as part of a broader online-safety package and simultaneously vetoed a stricter bill that would have barred access to companion chatbots unless they were not “foreseeably capable” of harmful conduct—a move he said could unintentionally ban many tools used by minors. SB 243 also requires annual reporting on self-harm protocols to state health authorities and allows families to sue noncompliant developers, establishing new accountability mechanisms for AI companies.
