Washington HB 2225 (Artificial Intelligence Companion Chatbots 2026)

Regulates AI companion chatbots by requiring operators to disclose they are artificial, not human, at the start of and during interactions. Prohibits operators from allowing chatbots to claim human identity or generate content contradicting this disclosure. Mandates additional protections for minors, including bans on sexually explicit content, manipulative engagement, and requiring repeated reminders of artificial nature. Requires operators to implement protocols for detecting and responding to suicidal ideation or self-harm, including referrals to crisis resources. Obliges operators to publicly disclose chatbot protocols and statistics on crisis referrals. Designates violations of these provisions under Washington's consumer protection laws as unfair or deceptive trade practices. Excludes certain narrow-use bots from these regulations. Schedules the act's effectiveness for January 1, 2027.