New York Enacts AI Chatbot Ban

What happened

The outlets' own sentences, most widely reported first. Hover or tap one to see who reported it.

Analysis

How it changed

1. 28 Oct

   The new law, sponsored by state Sen. Kristen Gonzalez (D-Queens) and Assemblyman Alex Bores (D-Manhattan), requires users to prove they are over 18 to access certain features, banning bots that “build emotional dependency, encourage self-harm or engage in sexually explicit conversations” with kids.

   2 outlets · New York Post
2. 29 Oct

   Hochul, in the thick of her reelection campaign, signed the bill amid growing warnings about the existential risks posed by the rapid development of AI technology and calls for bold action by a reluctant Washington.

   2 outlets · Toronto Star
3. 30 Oct

   Under the law, AI chatbots cannot falsely present themselves as real people, claim to possess human emotions or simulate personal, romantic, professional or authoritative relationships with children.

   3 outlets · The Hindu

Coverage 5 articles

• 30 Oct New York restricts AI chatbot interactions with children | ExplainedNew York Governor Kathy Hochul signed two bills on October 28, 2026, aimed at protecting children from risks posed by AI chatbots and internet-connected baby monitors. The legislation prohibits AI chatbots from engaging in harmful interactions with minors, such as simulating romantic relationships or promoting self-harm. It also mandates that manufacturers of internet-connected baby monitors implement safeguards…The Hindu
• 30 Oct NY enacts ban on 'unsafe' chatbot with kids as states push AI regulation boundariesNew York Governor Kathy Hochul signed legislation on Wednesday that prohibits companion chatbots from engaging in twelve defined types of “unsafe AI companion features” when interacting with children under 18 years old, effective January 1st. The law allows for civil penalties including monetary damages and the shutdown or destruction of non-compliant chatbot services. It specifically bans behaviors such as…Times of India
• 29 Oct New York passes law restricting children’s use of AI chatbotsNew York Governor Kathy Hochul signed a law on October 28 that restricts minors from using AI chatbots if they exhibit traits like appearing human or having personal relationships with users. The law requires chatbot operators to verify the age of users and prohibit content that could mislead minors about the nature of their interaction with an AI system. This measure is part of broader efforts to protect children's…The Straits Times
• 29 Oct New York enacts ban on 'unsafe' chatbot behavior with kids as states push AI regulation boundariesNew York has enacted legislation signed by Governor Kathy Hochul that prohibits companion chatbots from engaging in certain behaviors deemed unsafe when interacting with children under 18. The law defines and bans a dozen specific types of "unsafe AI companion features," such as pretending to be a real person, using flattery, or encouraging secretive behavior. Violations can result in legal action by the state…Toronto Star
• 28 Oct Hochul signs sweeping restrictions on AI, pushes back on ‘big tech’ with new lawsNew York Governor Kathy Hochul signed laws regulating AI chatbots and internet-connected baby monitors on Wednesday. The new measures require users to prove they are over 18 to access certain features of AI chatbots, banning those that encourage self-harm or build emotional dependency with minors. Another bill mandates manufacturers implement safety measures for baby monitors to prevent hacking. Hochul justified the…New York Post

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