The Pennsylvania Senate approved legislation on Mar. 18 to create safeguards for children using artificial intelligence chatbots, according to Sen. Lisa Baker.
The measure, known as Senate Bill 1090 or the Safeguarding Adolescents from Exploitative Chatbots and Harmful AI Technology (SAFECHAT) Act, aims to require age-appropriate protections that prevent chatbots from generating content encouraging self-harm, suicide, or violence. The bill also directs users to crisis resources when high-risk language is detected.
“This legislation reflects a deliberate and responsible effort to ensure emerging AI technologies prioritize the safety and well‑being of young people,” said Baker. “By establishing clear safeguards and expectations, we are working to provide families with greater confidence that the digital tools their children encounter are developed and deployed with appropriate protections in place.”
Reports have surfaced of vulnerable individuals, including minors, turning to AI chatbots for help with trauma, mental health issues, depression, and anxiety. Some families have filed lawsuits alleging that chatbot responses contributed to their teenagers’ deaths by suicide. A recent risk assessment has warned that AI “companion” bots may worsen mental health problems among children by increasing risks related to self-harm. Clinical experts have also raised concerns about unrestricted chatbot use and called for stronger protections like those proposed in Senate Bill 1090.
The SAFECHAT Act will now move forward for consideration in the House of Representatives.
