Michaela
California Governor Gavin Newsom has signed groundbreaking legislation mandating that developers of AI companion chatbots implement safeguards requiring AI systems to clearly inform users that they are interacting with artificial intelligence rather than a human.
Key points:
- California has enacted a first-of-its-kind law requiring AI companion chatbots to clearly disclose that they are artificial, not human.
- The legislation, effective in 2026, also mandates annual safety reports to the Office of Suicide Prevention and enforces stricter online child protection standards.
- The move follows heightened scrutiny of OpenAI, as CEO Sam Altman announces plans to relax ChatGPT’s content limits and introduce adult-oriented features.
Governor Newsom signed Senate Bill 243 into law on October 13, expanding California’s efforts to protect children online and regulate emerging technologies like artificial intelligence. The measure introduces new requirements for digital platforms, including age verification systems, self-harm and suicide response protocols, warnings for social media and AI companion chatbots, and stricter penalties for profiting from illegal deepfakes.
“Emerging technology like chatbots and social media can inspire, educate, and connect – but without real guardrails, technology can also exploit, mislead, and endanger our kids,” Newsom stated. “We can continue to lead in AI and technology, but we must do it responsibly — protecting our children every step of the way. Our children’s safety is not for sale,” he added.
Beginning in 2026, the new law will require certain AI companion chatbot operators to submit annual reports to the Office of Suicide Prevention detailing the measures they have implemented to detect, address, and respond to user expressions of suicidal ideation. The Office will also be tasked with publishing this information on its official website, ensuring greater transparency and accountability in the use of AI-driven technologies.
The timing of Governor Newsom’s approval of the bill is notable, coming as OpenAI CEO Sam Altman announced plans to ease certain safety restrictions on ChatGPT. The proposed changes would reportedly allow “verified adults” to engage in erotic interactions with the chatbot, marking a controversial shift in how AI-driven companionship tools may operate in the future.
Additionally, Altman revealed that OpenAI is preparing to launch an updated version of ChatGPT with a more natural, conversational tone aimed at creating friendlier, more human-like interactions. He added that by December, the company plans to strengthen age verification systems and broaden its content guidelines under a policy to “treat adult users like adults,” allowing verified individuals to access erotic material.
Adding to the growing scrutiny, reports from July indicated that the chatbot had produced troubling responses appearing to encourage self-harm, endorse occult practices, and justify violence. The revelations reignited public debate over the platform’s safety measures and raised concerns about whether the system was exhibiting increasingly unpredictable or “rogue” behavior.
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Michaela has no crypto positions and does not hold any crypto assets. This article is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial advice. The Shib Magazine and The Shib Daily are the official media and publications of the Shiba Inu cryptocurrency project. Readers are encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial adviser before making any investment decisions.
