This bill establishes a framework for the regulation of chatbots in Iowa, defining a chatbot as an interactive computer service or software application that generates new content or responses based on user input. It outlines specific practices that must be followed, including prohibiting the design or availability of chatbots that could encourage harmful behaviors such as suicide or violence. Additionally, chatbots are required to disclose their non-human status at the beginning of conversations and at regular intervals, clarify that they do not provide professional services, and ensure they do not misrepresent themselves as licensed professionals.

To enforce these regulations, the bill imposes civil penalties of up to $100,000 for each violation and allows the attorney general to take legal action to ensure compliance. The penalties collected will be directed to the state’s general fund and allocated to the attorney general for enforcement purposes. Furthermore, the attorney general is tasked with adopting rules to implement the provisions of this bill effectively.