An act relating to companion chatbots

H 804 requires operators of companion chatbots (AI systems designed to provide social interaction) to clearly disclose to users that they are interacting with artificial intelligence, not humans. It mandates safety protocols to prevent chatbots from generating suicidal content or ignoring users expressing self-harm, and requires operators to provide crisis resources when such content is detected. For minors (users under 18), the bill adds specific requirements: immediate AI disclosure, 30-minute reminders to take breaks, and protocols blocking sexually explicit content. The bill applies to operators of platforms offering these companion chatbots, excluding standard customer service, gaming, or basic voice assistant tools. Operators must annually report safety protocol usage to Vermont's Attorney General without sharing user data.