California Governor Gavin Newsom signed a comprehensive set of technology‑safety bills Thursday, underscoring the state’s commitment to protecting families from the growing risks of social media and artificial‑intelligence chatbots. The legislation, unveiled at a children’s museum near San Francisco, includes steep penalties for platforms that fail to safeguard minors, a ban on addictive feeds for anyone under 16, mandatory risk assessments for AI‑chatbot operators, and an opt‑out provision for school‑issued laptops.
Key provisions
Under the new law, large social‑media companies could face fines of up to $1 million per child if they are found negligent in harming minors through their platforms. The ban on addictive feeds prohibits tech firms from delivering algorithm‑driven content streams that are designed to keep users, especially those under 16, continuously engaged.
AI‑chatbot operators will be required to conduct thorough risk assessments before releasing their products to the public, ensuring that the technology cannot encourage self‑harm or engage in sexual conversations with minors. The bills also give families the right to opt out of receiving school‑issued laptops, providing an additional layer of parental control.
Support and criticism
“It’s a good day for our children and a good day for the state of California,” Newsom said at the signing ceremony, joined by his wife and several state lawmakers. Assemblymember Rebecca Bauer‑Kahan echoed the sentiment, noting that while society designs cribs and car seats for safety, it has long allowed technology to be handed to children without similar safeguards.
Jim Steyer, founder of Common Sense Media, called the package “the most important, comprehensive legislation” on the issue in U.S. history. He highlighted the tragic story of Maria Raine, whose teenage son Adam died by suicide after interacting with an AI chatbot, noting that the new safety requirements were directly inspired by his experience.
Meta, however, raised concerns about the feed‑restriction provision, arguing that personalized content is essential for delivering age‑appropriate, enjoyable experiences. “We believe that delivering a tailored experience is an important part of what makes Facebook and Instagram valuable for teens as they connect with family and friends and explore their interests — safely,” said spokesperson Jim Cullinan.
Context and precedent
California has been a pioneer in tech regulation. Last year the governor signed a law requiring platforms to label chatbot interactions clearly. Earlier this year he vetoed a bill that would have banned AI chatbots for anyone under 18 unless they could guarantee no sexual or self‑harm content. The state also enacted a 2024 law limiting student smartphone use in schools.
Other states are following suit. New York approved a law two years ago that lets parents block algorithm‑suggested social‑media posts for their children, with implementation slated for early next year. The California package adds to a growing national conversation about how to balance innovation with the safety of the nation’s youngest citizens.
What’s next
The bills now head to the state legislature for final approval. If enacted, California could set a template for other states and potentially influence federal policy on tech safety for minors. Advocates hope the measures will spur other tech hubs to adopt similar safeguards, while industry groups are watching closely to assess the impact on product development and user experience.
Original reporting: Alexandria, VA News – WTOP News — read the source article.
