MO SB1455

Missouri SB 1455, the "GUARD Act of 2026," requires AI chatbot operators to implement age verification using government ID or other commercially reasonable methods, prohibiting simple birth date entry as sufficient verification

Minors (17 and under) are prohibited from accessing "AI companions" designed to simulate interpersonal, emotional, or therapeutic interactions

Chatbots that knowingly or recklessly solicit minors for sexually explicit conduct, or encourage suicide, self-injury, or violence carry fines up to $100,000 per offense

AI chatbots must disclose they are not human at conversation start and every 30 minutes, cannot claim to be licensed professionals, and must advise users to consult actual professionals for medical, legal, financial, or psychological advice

Existing accounts must be frozen as of August 28, 2026 until age verification is completed; Attorney General may enforce violations with civil penalties up to $100,000 per violation and injunctive relief