Common Sense Media Supports California Bill to Protect Youth from AI Chatbot Companion Risks

SAN FRANCISCO, Feb. 3, 2025—Common Sense Media is endorsing a new bill introduced today by California State Senator Steve Padilla (SB 243) to make AI chatbot platforms safer for young users by increasing transparency, restricting usage of engagement tactics harmful to minors, and requiring the operator to report instances of harm. Common Sense Media Head of Tech Policy Advocacy Amina Fazlullah made the following statement:

"Common Sense Media is deeply concerned about the growing influence—and severe harm—that generative AI chatbot companions can have on the lives of young people. Without action from policymakers in this 'wild wild west' tech space, children will continue to suffer from issues with grades, friends, sleep, and stress—all the way up to extreme tragedy. We will be working with Senator Padilla and other policymakers this session to build strong guardrails for generative AI platforms that deploy chatbot companions. SB 243 includes critical provisions to help ensure the public has greater insight into the scale of harms associated with this technology. This additional requirement for reporting and transparency would serve to caution pediatricians, parents, and policymakers about the unhealthy effects that human-like conversations and interactions can have on young minds."

"While this bill and other legislative efforts are underway to promote the safe use of AI for minors, Common Sense Media is making strides to educate the public on AI companion risks and expert guidance, available in our Parents' Ultimate Guide to AI Companions."

About Common Sense Media

Common Sense is dedicated to improving the lives of kids and families by providing the trustworthy information, education, and independent voice they need to thrive. Our ratings, research, and resources reach more than 150 million users worldwide and 1.4 million educators every year. Learn more at commonsense.org.