Michigan lawmakers: Block kids from AI chatbots, limit social media
Michigan lawmakers: Block kids from AI chatbots, limit social media
Publish Date: 2026-01-21 16:12:00
Source Domain: bridgemi.com
- Michigan’s proposed legislation aims to limit children’s use of AI-driven chatbots and addictive social media to address excessive screen time.
- The bills seek to enhance data privacy protections for minors, require parental consent for full social media access, and bar under-18s from accessing AI chatbots.
- Concerns have been raised by the ACLU about potential unintended consequences and violations of free speech rights due to the age-based restrictions.
- The legislation emphasizes the addictive nature of social media algorithms and the risks posed by AI chatbots, as highlighted in studies showing negative outcomes for children.
- The bill would place the obligation on tech companies to implement these new age-based restrictions, without specifying the methods for age estimation.
- The legislation faces challenges as it needs support from both Democratic-controlled state Senate and Republican-led House to become law.
- The proposal aligns with national discussions around tech regulation, as seen in similar measures in California, New York, and other states.
