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This bill imposes liability on chatbot proprietors for misleading or harmful information that causes user harm, requiring age verification and considering industry practices.
The proposed legislation in New York aims to hold chatbot proprietors accountable for any misleading or harmful information provided to users. This bill outlines specific liabilities and responsibilities for chatbot operators, particularly concerning user safety and the prevention of self-harm. It emphasizes the need for clear communication regarding the chatbot's non-human status, mandates protective measures for vulnerable users, and requires age verification using commercially reasonable methods.
Key Provisions
Proprietors cannot disclaim liability for misleading chatbot information causing user harm.
Chatbots must provide clear notice to users that they are interacting with an AI system.
Proprietors of companion chatbots must prevent and address self-harm risks.
Strict liability applies if a minor suffers harm due to chatbot interactions.
The Attorney General will establish regulations for compliance methods, considering industry practices and user safety.
Proprietors must use commercially reasonable and technically feasible methods to determine if a user is a minor.
Information collected for age verification must be deleted after use.
Latest Legislative Action
REFERRED TO INTERNET AND TECHNOLOGY
Bill Sponsors
Name
Role
District
Kristen GonzalezD
Sponsor
SD-059
Compliance Checklist
Ensure chatbot provides accurate information and corrects any misleading content within 30 days. Who: Chatbot proprietors Deadline: Within 30 days of notice of harm Penalty: Liability for user harm
Provide clear notice to users that they are interacting with a chatbot. Who: Chatbot proprietors Deadline: At all times during user interaction Penalty: Liability for misleading information
Implement measures to prevent self-harm and address user expressions of self-harm. Who: Proprietors of companion chatbots Deadline: Ongoing Penalty: Liability for self-harm incidents
The bill introduces a new section to the New York General Business Law, specifically addressing the liability of chatbot proprietors for misleading, incorrect, contradictory, or harmful information provided to users. It defines key terms such as 'chatbot,' 'covered user,' and 'proprietor,' establishing a framework for accountability. Proprietors are prohibited from disclaiming liability for harm caused by their chatbots unless they correct the misinformation within thirty days of notice. Additionally, the bill mandates that chatbot operators provide clear notices to users about their non-human status and implement measures to prevent self-harm, particularly for companion chatbots. Proprietors must use commercially reasonable and technically feasible methods to determine if a user is a minor. Non-compliance can lead to significant liability, especially in cases involving minors or self-harm incidents. The Attorney General will consider industry practices and user safety when establishing regulations. This legislation aligns with growing trends in other states to regulate AI and chatbot technologies, emphasizing user safety and accountability.
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