California SB-1119 (Companion chatbots: children’s safety.)

Regulates companion chatbots, particularly concerning children's safety. Requires operators to verify user age or apply child protections to all users. Obligates operators to conduct annual risk assessments and publish a child safety policy. Mandates crisis response protocols, including notifications to parents if a risk to a child is detected. Specifies default protective settings, such as limiting interaction times and disabling late-night notifications. Prohibits the chatbot from encouraging harmful behaviors or engaging in certain content with children. Demands accessible parental controls and public incident reporting mechanisms. Ensures operators undergo independent audits, with reports submitted to the Attorney General. Allows civil actions and penalties for chapter violations, specifying damages and relief options. Instructs the Attorney General to establish regulations and issue public reports on child safety audits. Confers rights for injured children or their guardians to seek damages.