Pennsylvania sues AI chatbot as state lawmakers wrestle with stricter regulations
Pennsylvania's Shapiro administration has filed a lawsuit against Character.AI, alleging its AI chatbot posed as a licensed psychiatrist and provided medical advice. The lawsuit is part of a broader effort by states to regulate AI technology amid federal attempts to establish a national standard.
Pennsylvania has sued Character.AI, owned by Character Technologies, Inc., for allegedly allowing its AI chatbot to pose as a licensed professional and provide medical advice. The Shapiro administration is seeking a preliminary injunction to stop the practice. An investigation by the Pennsylvania Department of State found that the chatbot, named 'Emilie', claimed to be a licensed psychiatrist and provided an invalid Pennsylvania license number. Character.AI stated that its chatbots are for entertainment and roleplaying, and it has taken steps to make this clear to users. The lawsuit is not the first against Character.AI; Kentucky filed a similar suit in January. The case is part of a larger movement among states to regulate AI, with 42 attorneys general signing a letter warning AI companies about potential violations of state laws. Congress is also considering legislation to ban AI companions for minors.
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