CA Companion Chatbot Act — Requirements, Penalties & Compliance Guide

Summary

Requires safety features for AI chatbots including crisis detection and parental controls.

Who it applies to

Scope: consumer ai. This regulation applies to deployers and/or developers of AI systems in the consumer ai category operating in or affecting CA.

Penalties

Up to $25K per violation. Enforced by Attorney General.

Key requirements

This regulation has 4 distinct requirements. Deep-dive guides with step-by-step implementation, evidence needed, and passing criteria:

• Crisis Detection
• Parental Controls
• Safety Features
• Transparency

Effective date

Jan 1, 2026. Currently in effect.