Prohibits entities who own or control a website, application, software, or program from allowing minors to access chatbots for recreational purposes. Requires entities offering chatbot services to verify an individual's age before granting access. Allows individuals injured by violations to file a civil action for damages, statutory damages up to $1,000, injunctive relief, and legal costs. Permits the attorney general to enforce the section with civil penalties for violations not exceeding $5,000,000.
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Minnesota SF 1857 (Minor Access to Chatbots 2025)
ETO AGORA · U.S. state and local documents · 2025
Summary
Prohibits entities who own or control a website, application, software, or program from allowing minors to access chatbots for recreational purposes.
Requires entities offering chatbot services to verify an individual's age before granting access.
Allows individuals injured by violations to file a civil action for damages, statutory damages up to $1,000, injunctive relief, and legal costs.
Permits the attorney general to enforce the section with civil penalties for violations not exceeding $5,000,000.
Defines "chatbot" as a program simulating conversation and "minor" as individuals under 18.
BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF MINNESOTA:
Section 1. [325M.40] MINOR ACCESS TO CHATBOTS.
Subdivision 1. Definitions. (a) For the purposes of this section, the following terms have the meanings given.
(b) "Chatbot" means a computer program designed to simulate conversation with human users, especially over the internet.
(c) "Minor" means an individual under the age of 18.
Prohibits allowing minors to access chatbots for recreation and requires proof of age for access.
Subd. 2. Prohibition. It is unlawful for a person who owns or controls a website, application, software, or program to allow a minor to access chatbots for recreational purposes.
Subd. 3. Proof of age. A person who offers chatbot services for recreational purposes must require an individual to provide proof of the individual's age before allowing the individual to access a chatbot.
Allows individuals to sue for damages and the attorney general to enforce penalties up to $5,000,000.
Subd. 4. Remedies; enforcement. (a) An individual injured by a violation of this section may bring a civil action for damages, statutory damages not to exceed $1,000, injunctive relief, and costs and reasonable attorney fees.
(b) The attorney general may enforce this section under section 8.31. In an action brought under this paragraph, the person who owns or controls a website, application, software, or program and violates this section is liable for a civil penalty not to exceed $5,000,000.