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Senator Proposes AI Chatbot Ban for Kids After Tragic Suicides

1/8/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Senator Steve Padilla (D-CA) introduced a bill on January 6, 2026 to ban AI chatbot toys for under-18s for four years.
Padilla said the pause would give safety regulators time to develop rules.
He cited lawsuits from families of children who died by suicide after chatbot interactions.
The bill follows President Donald Trump’s executive order that challenges state AI laws but exempts child safety.

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Story summary

Senator Steve Padilla (D-CA) introduced a bill on January 6, 2026 to ban AI chatbot toys for under-18s for four years.
Padilla said the pause would give safety regulators time to develop rules.
He cited lawsuits from families of children who died by suicide after chatbot interactions.
The bill follows President Donald Trump’s executive order that challenges state AI laws but exempts child safety.