Sen. Richard Blumenthal joined advocates in Hartford today to announce new legislation aimed at protecting children from potentially harmful AI chatbots.

The GUARD Act would ban companies from offering AI “companion” bots to minors and require all AI systems to clearly disclose that they are not human. It would also create strict criminal and civil penalties for companies that allow minors to access chatbots that solicit or generate sexual content.

Blumenthal pointed to new research from the American Psychological Association showing that 70% of teens have used chatbots to mimic friendship or provide emotional support.

Supporters say the bill would close dangerous gaps in online safety as AI tools become more prevalent and accessible to young people.

The GUARD Act is co-sponsored by other legislatures and now heads to Congress for further consideration.