# California enacts strict laws on youth social media and AI usage New regulations target addictive features and chatbot safety for minors - **Source:** [Engadget](https://www.engadget.com) - **Published:** 2026-09-10 - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/c6366597-b355-4913-ae2a-9c0fc42b0a1a ## Landmark legislation signed California Governor Gavin Newsom has signed multiple bills aimed at protecting minors in digital spaces. The new laws specifically target social media platforms and AI chatbot interactions. These represent some of the most comprehensive youth protection measures in the tech sector to date. The legislation comes amid growing concerns about technology's impact on young users' mental health. ## AI chatbot restrictions The laws impose strict rules on how teens can interact with AI chatbots. Companies must implement time limits and mental health resources. They're required to add safety protocols when minors discuss self-harm. Parents will receive notifications if children disable safety settings. AI firms must conduct annual child safety audits. ## Social media limitations Platforms can no longer offer addictive features to users under 16. This includes autoplay videos, notifications, and algorithm-driven feeds. The bill defines these features as potentially harmful. Critics argue this effectively bans social media for teens. Enforcement may require age verification, raising privacy concerns. ## Legal consequences AI companies face liability for non-compliance with the new rules. The legislation creates frameworks for auditing tech firms. California is setting precedents that could influence other states. Tech companies may need to redesign products for the California market. Legal challenges to the laws are expected. ## Expanded protections The package includes broader child safety measures. It expands definitions of sexual exploitation to include AI-generated images. New rules protect K-12 students from targeted advertising. Data usage by AI systems in education faces regulation. These complement existing online safety laws. ## Industry opposition Digital rights groups like EFF strongly oppose the measures. They argue restrictions limit teens' digital participation. Age verification requirements create new privacy risks. Critics say the laws may hinder innovation. The debate reflects ongoing tensions between safety and digital rights. ## National implications California's laws could set trends for other states. Similar legislation is being considered nationwide. The measures test the limits of state tech regulation. They may prompt federal action on youth online safety. Tech companies face a patchwork of potential state laws. ## Balancing act The laws represent an attempt to address genuine concerns about youth and technology. However, they raise complex questions about implementation and unintended consequences. Finding the right balance between protection and freedom remains challenging. These measures will be closely watched as test cases for tech regulation. Their impact could shape the future of youth digital experiences. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.engadget.com/2255569/ca-governor-signs-landmark-laws-on-youth-use-of-social-media-and-ai-chatbots/ — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._