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Senators are pushing for stricter regulations on AI chatbots to safeguard teenagers with the proposed GUARD Act. Spearheaded by Senators Hawley and Blumenthal, the bill would mandate age verification for chatbot users, effectively banning those under 18 from accessing these platforms.

The GUARD Act outlines specific age verification methods, including government-issued ID uploads or facial scanning technology. Chatbots would also be required to clearly identify themselves as non-human at regular intervals, preventing impersonation. These proposed measures echo similar AI safety regulations recently enacted in California.

Beyond age verification, the GUARD Act aims to prevent chatbots from generating sexually explicit content targeted at minors and from promoting suicide. Senator Blumenthal underscored the urgency of these protections, expressing concerns that Big Tech’s pursuit of profit could compromise the safety and well-being of children online. The bill reflects growing concerns about the potential risks AI poses to young users and a commitment to implement robust safeguards.