California enforces SB 243 regulating companion chatbots

California's SB 243, signed October 13, 2025 and effective January 1, 2026, regulates companion chatbots. Operators must disclose AI nature, maintain a suicide-prevention protocol, protect minors, and file annual reports with the Office of Suicide Prevention starting July 1, 2027.

• Law effective January 1, 2026, signed October 13, 2025
• Damages: at least $1,000 per violation plus attorney's fees
• Minors get break reminders at least every three hours
• Annual reports to Office of Suicide Prevention from July 1, 2027