Gov. Newsom signs multiple bills to protect children from AI technology

(FOX40.COM) — Gov. Newsom has signed multiple bills to help Californians differentiate reality from technology-made elements online in an effort to protect children as technology continues to develop, according to the governor’s office.

Video Above: Gov. Newsom signed a pair of bills to invest in new technology

“Emerging technology like chatbots and social media can inspire, educate, and connect – but without real guardrails, technology can also exploit, mislead, and endanger our kids. We’ve seen some truly horrific and tragic examples of young people harmed by unregulated tech, and we won’t stand by while companies continue without necessary limits and accountability,” Newsom said. “We can continue to lead in AI and technology, but we must do it responsibly — protecting our children every step of the way. Our children’s safety is not for sale.”

The new legislation adds requirements such as:

• Age verification
• Protocols to address suicide and self-harm
• Warnings regarding social media and companion chatbots
• Stronger penalties for those who profit from illegal deepfakes

“Everything we do begins with our children — their safety, their health, and their well-being. California has always led in innovation, but true leadership also means setting limits when it matters most, because our kids deserve a world that values them more than the technology around them,” First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom. “These bills establish guardrails that protect our children’s health and safety while ensuring innovation moves forward responsibly, showing that we can have both at once, always with future generations in mind.”

The office said that 16 bills were signed in an effort to strengthen the safety of online platforms.