A growing number of states—e.g., California, Connecticut (effective January 1, 2027), Idaho, Iowa, New York, and Washington—regulate AI companion bots. These are bots that communicate with individuals in natural language and simulate human conversation and interaction through text, audio, or video. These bots have been identified as a “public health problem.” Rules differ by state but generally require protocols to detect expressions of self-harm or imminent violence, and bar the use of AI companion bots for those under age 18 under certain conditions. AI companion bots used exclusively for internal business purposes are usually excluded. #IdeaoftheDay
