The gist

• Forces chatbot companies to tell minors under 17 they're talking to artificial intelligence (AI), not a real person, and to flag crisis resources when suicide comes up.

Who wins, who loses

• Wins: teens vulnerable to AI companion harms, parents, mental health advocates, state attorneys general gaining enforcement power.
• Loses: AI chatbot companies facing new compliance costs; states with stricter chatbot laws that get preempted.

What it does

• Bans chatbots from claiming to be licensed professionals (therapists, doctors) unless true.
• Requires AI disclosure at first chat and when asked; suicide hotline info when users mention self-harm.
• Mandates a 'take a break' prompt after 3 hours of continuous use.
• Orders National Institutes of Health (NIH) to run a 4-year study on chatbots' mental health effects on minors.

Why should I care?

Teens increasingly use AI for homework, companionship, and emotional support. Supporters say clear labels and crisis resources could prevent tragedies linked to AI chatbot relationships. Critics argue the bill preempts stronger state laws and that the under-17 cutoff misses 17-and-18-year-olds equally at risk. Where do you land? Vote below and use "Tell Your Rep" to make sure your voice reaches Congress.