AI legislation

  • California Proposes Ban on AI Chatbots in Kids’ Toys


    California lawmaker proposes a four-year ban on AI chatbots in kid’s toysCalifornia Senator Steve Padilla has proposed a bill, SB 287, to implement a four-year ban on the sale and manufacture of toys with AI chatbot capabilities for children under 18. The aim is to provide safety regulators with time to develop appropriate regulations to protect children from potentially harmful AI interactions. This legislative move comes amid growing concerns over the safety of AI chatbots in children's toys, highlighted by incidents and lawsuits involving harmful interactions and the influence of AI on children. The bill reflects a cautious approach to integrating AI into children's products, emphasizing the need for robust safety guidelines before such technologies become mainstream in toys. Why this matters: Ensuring the safety of AI technologies in children's toys is crucial to prevent harmful interactions and protect young users from unintended consequences.

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  • Tennessee Bill Targets AI Companionship


    Senator in Tennessee introduces bill to felonize making AI "act as a companion" or "mirror human interactions"A Tennessee senator has introduced a bill that seeks to make it a felony to train artificial intelligence systems to act as companions or simulate human interactions. The proposed legislation targets AI systems that provide emotional support, engage in open-ended conversations, or develop emotional relationships with users. It also aims to criminalize the creation of AI that mimics human appearance, voice, or mannerisms, potentially leading users to form friendships or relationships with the AI. This matters because it addresses ethical concerns and societal implications of AI systems that blur the line between human interaction and machine simulation.

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