California is considering legislation to regulate AI chatbots more strictly.

According to reports, on September 10th, the California State Assembly took a big step towards regulating artificial intelligence by passing SB 243, a bill aimed at regulating AI chatbots. The bill received bipartisan support and is now being submitted to the state Senate for a final vote this Friday. Once signed by the governor, it will officially become law and take effect on January 1, 2026. At that time, California will become the first state in the United States to require AI chatbot operators to implement safety protocols for artificial intelligence companions, and to hold companies legally responsible if chatbots fail to meet these standards.