Bill > HB1742

This bill establishes comprehensive regulations for companion chatbots in Missouri, defining them as artificial intelligence systems with natural language interfaces capable of providing human-like responses and sustaining relationships across multiple interactions. The legislation prohibits minors from accessing companion chatbots for recreational, relational, or companion purposes, requiring age verification before access and preventing installation on devices regularly used by individuals under 18. The bill mandates that companies providing companion chatbot services must not deceive users about the non-human nature of the chatbot, implement systems to prevent users from becoming emotionally dependent on these AI systems, and refrain from using human-like avatars (including cartoon or anime-style representations). The law specifically excludes customer service bots, video game bots with limited functionality, and standalone voice-activated virtual assistants from the definition of companion chatbots. Key definitions are provided for terms like "artificial intelligence" and "companion chatbot", and the bill aims to protect users, particularly minors, from potential psychological manipulation or emotional harm from advanced AI interaction systems.

https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB1742&year=2026&code=R