California Becomes The First State In The US To Implement AI Chatbot Security Law

California Governor Gavin Newsom (photo: x @NoLieWithBTC)

JAKARTA - California officially became the first state in the United States to impose comprehensive laws to regulate artificial intelligence-based chatbots (AI) and protect minors.

The new law, known as the Senate Bill 243 (SB 243), requires clear disclosure of AI identities, application of pauses during long conversations, and protection of harmful or explicit content.

Chatbot is actually not new. In its development, the initial generation chatbot can be considered the forerunner of modern AI that we know today. However, as more and more companies use AI to increase their chatbot intelligence, there are also various risks that need to be anticipated. Therefore, California is taking firm steps by implementing new regulations to ensure the safety of users, especially children.

California Governor Gavin Newsom signed SB 243, making California the first state to implement a comprehensive safety protocol for AI chatbots. This rule targets large companies such as OpenAI and Meta, which are now required to provide special protection for underage users.

In accordance with this law, chatbot companies must notify their child users that they are interacting with AI, not humans. In addition, periodic pauses are required during the conversation session to address concerns regarding excessive screen time and potential emotional dependence on chatbots.

Regulations also require companies to prevent chatbots in California from producing harmful content, such as those related to suicide, self-harm, or explicit sexual material. The law also gives victims the right to deepfake pornography to demand civil compensation of up to 250,000 US dollars (approximately IDR 4.08 billion).

New technology such as chatbots and social media can inspire, educate, and connect people. But without a real safety fence, technology can also exploit, mislead, and harm our children. We have seen many tragic examples where teens are victims of technology without regulation, and we will not remain silent, "said Newsom, quoted by VOI from Reuters.

AI Regulation Polemic

The process of the birth of this law faced major obstacles. President Donald Trump previously signed a One Big Beautiful Bill in July 2025, which initially contained provisions prohibiting states from regulating AI for 10 years.

However, this provision was rejected by a number of lawmakers from both parties who considered that the state should still have the authority to regulate technology according to its local needs.

Although some argue that regulations can slow AI progress, Newsom emphasizes the importance of a balance between innovation and responsibility. We can continue to lead in the fields of AI and technology, but we must do so in a responsible way protect our children at every step. The safety of our children is not for sale," he said