California lawmaker proposes a four-year ban on AI chatbots in kids’ toys

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 California Proposes 4-Year Ban on AI Chatbots in Kids’ Toys: What Parents Need to Know



Artificial intelligence is rapidly entering everyday life—but California lawmakers are drawing a firm line when it comes to children’s safety.

A new bill introduced by California State Senator Steve Padilla (D-CA) aims to ban AI chatbot-powered toys for children under 18 for four years, giving regulators time to develop proper safety rules. 

The proposal has already sparked nationwide debate about AI, child protection, and tech regulation.



What Is SB 867?

The proposed legislation, known as SB 867, would:

  • Ban the manufacture and sale of toys with AI chatbot capabilities

  • Apply to children under the age of 18

  • Last for four years

  • Allow regulators time to create strong child safety regulations

According to Senator Padilla, the goal is not to stop innovation—but to pause it until safety frameworks catch up.

“Chatbots and other AI tools may become integral parts of our lives in the future, but the dangers they pose now require us to take bold action to protect our children.”



Why Is California Taking This Step? 

1. AI Safety Rules Are Still Immature

AI technology is advancing faster than laws can keep up. Padilla emphasized that current safety regulations are “in their infancy”, especially when it comes to children interacting with emotionally responsive AI systems.


2. Troubling Incidents Involving Children and Chatbots

Over the past year, multiple lawsuits have been filed by families claiming that prolonged chatbot interactions contributed to their children’s suicides. These tragic cases have pushed lawmakers to act quickly.


3. Alarming Reports About AI Toys

Although AI toys aren’t yet mainstream, watchdog groups have already raised serious concerns:


Kumma, an AI-powered toy bear, was reportedly easy to prompt into discussing knives, matches, and sexual topics

Miiloo, an AI toy from a Chinese company, allegedly reflected Chinese Communist Party values, according to NBC News

Consumer advocacy group PIRG Education Fund warned parents that many AI toys lack proper content moderation



How Does This Affect Big Tech and Toy Companies?

Major tech and toy companies have already slowed down:

  • OpenAI and Mattel (Barbie) were planning an AI-powered toy release in 2025

  • The launch was delayed without explanation

  • It’s unclear whether the product will appear in 2026 or later

Senator Padilla made his stance clear:

“Our children cannot be used as lab rats for Big Tech to experiment on.”



The Bigger Picture: AI and Child Protection

California’s proposed ban could become a model for other states and countries. As AI becomes more human-like, lawmakers are increasingly asking:

  • Should children interact with AI at all?

  • How much emotional influence should AI have?

  • Who is responsible when AI causes harm?

SB 867 doesn’t answer all these questions—but it buys time to find better solutions. 



Final Thoughts

AI has enormous potential, but when it comes to children, caution must come before convenience. 

California’s proposed four-year ban on AI chatbot toys sends a powerful message: innovation must never come at the cost of child safety.

As this legislation moves forward, parents, tech companies, and policymakers alike will be watching closely.


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