Technology (Online Safety)

SB 939 prohibits operators of "companion chatbots" (AI systems designed to simulate ongoing, personalized relationships with users) from making these tools available to children under 18 without specific safety measures. It requires such chatbots to avoid encouraging self-harm, replacing professional mental health care, promoting illegal activity, sharing explicit content, prioritizing validation over safety, or optimizing engagement beyond safety features. Operators face civil penalties of up to $25,000 per violation per day, and affected children or their guardians may sue for damages. The law exempts customer service bots, internal business tools, and research systems, and includes a 2027 implementation deadline.

AB 105 requires business entities (like websites or platforms) distributing material harmful to minors to verify users' ages using approved methods before granting access. It applies specifically to sites containing a "substantial portion" (over one-third) of such material, defined as content with sexual depictions, prurient appeal, or lacking literary/artistic value for minors. The bill exempts bona fide news organizations and internet service providers from these requirements. Violations could result in civil lawsuits seeking damages, while the bill also bans publishing obscene material involving children or obscene content online.