Colorado lawmakers weigh youth chatbot protections, age attestation
Colorado lawmakers weigh youth chatbot protections, age attestation
https://www.denverpost.com/2026/04/26/chatbot-regulations-ai-suicide-age-verification-colorado/
Publish Date: 2026-04-26 08:00:00
Source Domain: www.denverpost.com
- Colorado lawmakers are focusing on creating more online protections for young people through two key bills, Senate Bill 51 and House Bill 1263, while balancing privacy and freedom concerns.
- Senate Bill 51 would require users to attest their age when setting up a device, aiming at restricting access to age-restricted apps without compromising privacy.
- House Bill 1263 aims to regulate chatbots, with provisions to ensure users are informed they are interacting with AI and to restrict sexually explicit content and emotional dependence among children.
- Critics argue the measures do not go far enough and have voiced particular concerns about the chatbot bill’s lenient approach towards tech companies.
- Both bills have passed their respective chambers but require final approval before reaching Gov. Jared Polis, whose stance on tech regulation is crucial.
- Supporters argue the bills represent a good starting point and could lead to more stringent measures with a new governor.
