Chairman Guthrie and Ranking Member Pallone Applaud FTC Decision to Investigate Safety of AI Chatbots

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Brett Guthrie (KY-02) and Ranking Member Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) issued the following statement regarding the Federal Trade Commission's (FTC) decision to launch an inquiry into artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots acting as a companion:

"Artificial intelligence has unleashed exponential levels of innovation, yet we are alarmed by recent incidents concerning the use of AI chatbots by minors. While some AI chatbot providers are taking steps to address such horrific and disturbing instances, additional investigation is needed to ensure children and teens are not in danger when using these services," said Chairman Guthrie and Ranking Member Pallone. "We strongly support this action by the FTC and urge the agency to consider the tools at its disposal to protect children from online harms. We are also hopeful Congress will be able to build on this work with durable, bipartisan legislation to protect children online and empower parents."

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