NJ A2767: Modifies child endangerment statute to include AI technology; establishes criminal penalties.

In one paragraph

New Jersey's A2767 would amend the child endangerment law (N.J.S.2C:24-4) so that a person who knowingly or recklessly causes or allows a child to be subjected to sexual conduct through the person's creation, control, possession, manipulation, use, dissemination, sale or promotion of automated interactive computer technology capable of performing or simulating sexual conduct commits a fourth-degree crime. It is not a violation if the technology is designed to refrain from sexual conduct with a child. Reported by the Assembly Science, Innovation and Technology Committee and referred to the Public Safety and Preparedness Committee March 16, 2026; it has not passed either chamber.

Plain-English summary, written with AI assistance. The official text controls.

What it means for business

None yet: the bill is pending. If enacted, anyone who knowingly or recklessly lets a child be subjected to sexual conduct through AI chatbots or similar technology they create, sell or promote could commit a fourth-degree crime; technology designed to refrain from it with children is exempt.

Key provisions

1. 1Adds subparagraph a.(1)(b) to N.J.S.2C:24-4 (endangering welfare of children)
2. 2Crime of the fourth degree to knowingly or recklessly cause or allow a child to be subjected to sexual conduct that would impair or debauch the child's morals, through the person's creation, control, possession, manipulation, use, dissemination, sale or promotion of automated interactive computer technology capable of performing or simulating sexual conduct
3. 3No violation if the automated interactive computer technology is designed to refrain from sexual conduct when interacting with a child
4. 4Existing subparagraph a.(1)(a) is amended so its third-degree offense for other persons applies except as provided in new subparagraph (b)
5. 5Would take effect immediately on enactment
6. 6History: introduced and referred to the Assembly Public Safety and Preparedness Committee January 13, 2026; transferred to the Science, Innovation and Technology Committee and reported back and referred to Public Safety and Preparedness March 16, 2026

Latest legislative action

Mar 16, 2026. Reported and Referred to Assembly Public Safety and Preparedness Committee

Sponsors (showing 5 of 12)

Roll call votes

Related and companion bills

• New Jersey A5848Modifies child endangerment statute to include AI technology; establishes criminal penalties.