Panel Weighs New Guardrails for AI Chatbots as Concerns Mount Over Child Safety

Experts debated AI chatbot risks to children, with advocates warning of manipulation techniques while skeptics urged perspective on technology fears.

Broadband Breakfast

Nov 26, 2025 — 3 min read

Screenshot of Rep. Erin Houchin, R-Indiana, from Wednesday's Broadband Breakfast webcast

WASHINGTON, Nov. 26, 2025 — Federal lawmakers are advancing legislation to regulate artificial intelligence chatbots amid growing concerns about their impact on children, with proposals ranging from educational guidance to age restrictions and disclosure requirements.

Rep. Erin Houchin, R-Ind., outlined three bipartisan bills during a Broadband Breakfast webcast Wednesday, including measures that would require AI systems to disclose when users are interacting with non-human entities and prevent chatbots from impersonating licensed professionals.

"No chatbot should act like a therapist or a doctor or an adviser, particularly to a minor," Houchin said during the event, which focused on AI's implications for youth safety.

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AI BBLO Erin Houchin Child Safety COPPA Reset Act House Energy and Commerce Jenny Radesky Amina Fazlullah Corbin Barthold

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