North Dakota lawmakers consider rules for AI chatbots and children

FARGO — North Dakota lawmakers are considering new rules to protect children from artificial intelligence chatbots. A proposal before the North Dakota AI and Data Center Committee would restrict how those chatbots interact with minors. Chatbots can answer questions, offer advice, even simulate friendships. But as AI chatbots become more humanlike, child advocates are worried about the relationships they're building with young people. "Many people have formed deep emotional bonds with these AI companions," said Greg Kasowski, executive director of children's advocacy centers. Under the proposal, AI chatbots couldn't encourage children to withdraw from family and friends, pretend to be romantic partners or make them feel guilty for ending a conversation. Companies would also have to prevent chatbots from exposing minors to sexual content or encouraging self-harm. And if a user expresses thoughts of suicide, the chatbot would have to direct them toward a