Lawmakers in the U.S. state of Oregon have approved a new bill aimed at making artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots safer, especially for children. The bill, known as SB 1546, received strong support from both the state Senate and the House of Representatives.
As per the bill, the new law requires companies that run AI chatbots to clearly inform users that they are communicating with an AI system and not a human. It also includes special protections if the system believes the user might be a minor.
The bill passed the Senate with a vote of 26–1 and was later approved unanimously in the House with a 52–0 vote. It will now be sent to Governor Tina Kotek, who has five business days to decide whether to sign the bill into law, veto it, or allow it to become law without her signature.
The measure was introduced by State Senator Lisa Reynolds. It is considered one of the first major AI chatbot safety laws passed in the United States in 2026. The bill follows a similar law passed earlier in California called SB 243. It was signed last year by Governor Gavin Newsom.
Under the bill, chatbots must warn that the service may not be suitable for children. If a chatbot is interacting with a minor, it must remind the user at least once every hour that they are talking to an AI system. It must also encourage young users to take breaks during long conversations.
The law also bans chatbots from producing sexually explicit content for minors and from using reward systems designed to keep children online longer. In addition, chatbots cannot emotionally pressure users if they try to stop chatting or delete their accounts.
Another important rule requires chatbot companies to prevent responses that could encourage suicidal thoughts. If a user shows signs of self-harm or suicide risk, the chatbot must direct them to appropriate mental health resources.
According to supporters, this bill will help to make AI technology safer for children as well as other users.
Also Read: NY Bill Banning AI Chatbots from Professional Advice, Advances
