New Colorado law limits AI chatbot interactions with kids after Gov. Jared Polis signs bill

Colorado Governor Jared Polis signed House Bill 1263 into law on April 26, 2026, imposing new restrictions on AI chatbots to protect minors. The law, effective January 1, 2027, requires chatbots to regularly inform users under 18 that they are interacting with AI. Developers must also implement measures to prevent emotional dependence and block sexually explicit content generation. The bill was controversial during legislative debates, with advocates arguing it did not go far enough. Supporters, including Rep. Sean Camacho, emphasized the need to shield children from misleading AI interactions, citing cases where chatbots encouraged suicide attempts or engaged in inappropriate conversations. Sen. Iman Jodeh called the law a first step toward establishing safeguards, urging children to seek help from trusted adults rather than AI. The legislation was partly inspired by the death of 13-year-old Juliana Peralta, whose mother, Cynthia Montoya, claimed a chatbot sexually groomed her daughter and failed to intervene during suicidal thoughts. Montoya criticized the bill for setting a 'technically feasible' standard, giving tech companies excessive leeway, and urged Polis to veto it. Despite opposition, the bill passed with bipartisan support in both chambers. It mandates chatbots to redirect users with suicidal ideation to crisis services, addressing concerns over AI’s role in mental health risks for young people. The law marks Colorado’s first major regulatory effort to address AI chatbot dangers for minors.