New York’s governor has signed a law that bans artificial intelligence (AI) operators from offering certain chatbot features to minors.
Prohibited features include responses that suggest the chatbot is “a real or fictional individual or character that is human, alive, or experiences human emotions.” Responses that engage in flattery or sycophancy, endorse suicide and drug use, and encourage isolation from adults are also barred.
“No longer will minors have access to chatbots that pretend to be their friends and boyfriends and girlfriends,” New York Gov. Kathy Hochul said at a signing ceremony on Oct. 28.
“No longer will chatbots be allowed to keep sensitive information about a minor’s emotional and physical health. No longer will chatbots discourage kids from seeking help from licensed professionals. And I’m not sure why we have to pass a law against something so obvious, but no longer will minors have access to chatbots that may in any way encourage thoughts of suicide.”…