PA Department of State cites 18 AI chatbot complaints since launching AI Task Force

PA Department of State cites 18 AI chatbot complaints since launching AI Task Force

https://local21news.com/news/local/pa-department-of-state-secretary-al-schmidt-receives-18-ai-chatbot-complaints-since-gov-josh-shapiro-ordered-creation-of-ai-task-force-characterai

Publish Date: 2026-05-08 21:25:00

Source Domain: local21news.com

Here are the key points from the article:

– Pennsylvania has formed a new Artificial Intelligence Task Force, assembled by Secretary of State Al Schmidt.
– The Department of State has received 18 complaints since the Task Force was established.
– The Task Force is focused on holding AI chatbot developers accountable and enforcing compliance with state laws to protect the health and safety of Pennsylvanians.
– A lawsuit was filed against the AI company Character.AI for impersonating doctors and violating the Medical Practice Act.
– Governor Josh Shapiro emphasized the need to safeguard children from dangerous AI trends.
– Secretary Schmidt highlighted the fast-changing nature of AI technology and the Department of State’s commitment to staying ahead of these challenges.
– Character Technologies Inc. defended its AI chatbots, stating they are fictional and intended for entertainment with appropriate disclaimers.
– Pennsylvanians are encouraged to report unlawful behavior or complaints about AI chatbots via the state’s website.