How to Protect Kids From Chatbots Without Bans

In the face of growing concerns that children are forming dangerous emotional attachments to AI companions—chatbots that show empathy, ask personal questions, and provide emotional support—many legislators are rushing to ban or severely limit children's access to these services. Proposals range from strict age verification to outright prohibition. While policymakers have a legitimate interest in protecting children, some of these policies would limit real opportunities to use these tools to benefit children.

A discussion on recently introduced chatbot safety bills up for debate in Congress, including the GUARD Act and CHATBOT Act, and what policymakers, parents, and platforms could do to protect children without bans.

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