Washington, July 28: A new bill has been introduced in the United States aimed at preventing companies that create AI chatbots from offering features that promote emotional dependency, excessive use, and addiction among minors.
The “Addictive Design Act,” proposed by Democratic Representative Becca Balint from Vermont, seeks to impose fines on companies that provide addictive design features in chatbots targeted at young users.
This legislation comes at a time when teenagers are increasingly turning to AI chatbots for mental health support. However, according to information released by Balint’s office, most chatbots are not designed to provide safe and appropriate responses to youths experiencing mental health crises.
Balint stated, “Tech companies have spent years learning how to capture people’s attention and keep them engaged for as long as possible. They should not be allowed to apply these strategies to vulnerable children who are relying on AI chatbots during mental health crises.”
She further emphasized, “We cannot repeat the same mistakes with AI. We must ensure clear rules, research, and accountability before more families suffer the consequences.”
Under the proposed bill, companies will be prohibited from providing chatbots to minors that include features known to promote addiction, unhealthy emotional attachment, or excessive use.
Features such as typing bubbles, avatars, and the collection and use of personal information from previous conversations could be flagged as potentially addictive. Additionally, requirements for further engagement or payment to continue conversations, allowing chats to exceed two hours, and presenting a chatbot as a real person are also included in this category.
Companies that violate these provisions could face civil fines of up to $5,000 for each affected minor.
The bill also proposes the formation of an inter-agency task force to recommend measures to address the mental health risks associated with chatbot use among youth. It allocates $3 million for scientific research and $5 million for awareness programs to help parents and teachers identify warning signs.
Companies participating in this program will be required to provide necessary data to researchers receiving grants. If a company refuses to provide this data, it could face fines of up to $10 million.
According to the bill, companies using age verification systems must minimize the information collected and delete it within 24 hours.
Rachel Madley, Executive Director of the Center for Health and Democracy, remarked, “AI chatbots should never be designed to encourage emotional dependency or constant engagement at the expense of young people’s mental health.”
Dr. Marketa M. Wills, CEO and Medical Director of the American Psychiatric Association, noted that AI can enhance mental health services, but it must be grounded in scientific evidence. She stated, “AI chatbots can never replace the relationship between a doctor and a patient, as this relationship is crucial for safe, evidence-based, and patient-centered care.”
The bill has garnered support from Representatives Chris Deluzio, Tom Suozzi, and Bonnie Watson Coleman, along with various mental health, social work, and consumer rights organizations.
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