SF1857 (Legislative Session 94 (2025-2026))
Minor access to chatbots for recreational purposes by persons prohibition provision
Related bill: HF1991
AI Generated Summary
This bill, Senate File No. 1857, proposes a law in Minnesota that would prohibit minors (under 18 years old) from accessing chatbots for recreational purposes.
Key Provisions:
Definitions:
- Chatbot: A computer program designed to simulate conversation with human users, especially over the internet.
- Minor: Any individual under 18 years old.
Prohibition:
- It would be illegal for a person or entity that owns or controls a website, application, software, or program to allow minors to access chatbots for recreational purposes.
Proof of Age Requirement:
- Businesses providing chatbot services for recreational purposes must verify users' ages before granting access.
Enforcement & Penalties:
- Individuals harmed by a violation of this law can file a civil lawsuit seeking damages up to $1,000, injunctive relief, and legal fees.
- The Minnesota Attorney General can enforce the law, and violators (i.e., businesses that fail to comply) may face civil penalties up to $5,000,000.
- Individuals harmed by a violation of this law can file a civil lawsuit seeking damages up to $1,000, injunctive relief, and legal fees.
This bill aims to regulate minors' online interactions with AI-powered chatbot systems, likely due to concerns about safety, misinformation, or inappropriate content.
Bill text versions
- Introduction PDF file
Actions
Date | Chamber | Where | Type | Name | Committee Name |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
February 24, 2025 | Senate | Floor | Action | Introduction and first reading | |
February 24, 2025 | Senate | Floor | Action | Referred to | Commerce and Consumer Protection |
February 27, 2025 | Senate | Floor | Action | Authors added | |
March 10, 2025 | Senate | Floor | Action | Author added |
Progress through the legislative process
In Committee