Lawler Introduces Legislation to Protect Children From Harmful AI Companion Chatbots

Washington, D.C. - 1/27/26… Today, Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17) introduced the Children Harmed by AI Technology (CHAT) Act, bipartisan legislation to protect minors from the growing risks posed by AI companion chatbots.

As AI companion chatbots become more prevalent, particularly among young users, the CHAT Act establishes clear, enforceable safeguards to ensure children are protected from exposure to self-harm content, suicidal ideation, and inappropriate interactions with artificial intelligence systems that are often mistaken for real people.

"We have a responsibility to make sure our children are protected, not exploited, by AI technology. Parents across the country deserve peace of mind knowing that AI platforms interacting with their kids have real safeguards in place, including age verification, parental consent, and clear boundaries. The CHAT Act puts families first and ensures innovation never comes at the expense of our children's safety," said Congressman Lawler.

Senator Jon Husted (R-OH) introduced companion legislation in the Senate.

Full text of the bill can be found HERE.

Congressman Lawler is one of the most bipartisan members of Congress and represents New York's 17th Congressional District, which is just north of New York City and contains all or parts of Rockland, Putnam, Dutchess, and Westchester Counties. He was rated the most effective freshman lawmaker in the 118th Congress, 8th overall, surpassing dozens of committee chairs.

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