Oregon lawmaker proposes regulations for AI ‘companions’ amid mental health concerns

Source Domain: katu.com

Oregon lawmaker proposes new regulations for AI companions to protect mental health, especially among children and teens.
The bill requires companies to disclose AI companions as software, not humans, at every interaction stage.
It mandates safeguards to identify suicidal thoughts or self-harm signs, interrupting AI interactions to direct users to crisis resources.
Special measures protect minors, including reminders about the artificial nature of the interaction and avoidance of sexual content.
Companies would need to publish safety protocols and provide annual reports on the need for crisis resource referrals.
State can track data on how often AI companions come across users in distress, though personal information will not be shared.
If passed, users can seek legal action for damages or injunctions if they suffer harm due to violations.
The bill’s enforceability is complicated by a federal executive order to challenge state AI laws that conflict with a national framework.