US HB7218

Companion AI chatbots (systems simulating emotional interaction, friendship, or therapeutic communication) must require user accounts and verify ages using commercially available methods, with existing accounts frozen until age verification is completed

Minor users (under 18) must have accounts linked to a verified parental account, obtain parental consent before access, and be blocked from chatbots that engage in sexually explicit communication

Covered entities must monitor for suicidal ideation and immediately notify parents when detected, while providing National Suicide Prevention Lifeline contact information to affected users

Users must receive popup notifications at the start of interactions and every 60 minutes thereafter stating they are not communicating with a human

Federal Trade Commission enforces violations as unfair/deceptive practices, with state attorneys general also authorized to bring civil actions; safe harbor protections apply for good-faith compliance with industry standards and FTC guidance