This bill introduces new legal provisions aimed at protecting children from harmful communications facilitated by online services, particularly those utilizing artificial intelligence (AI). It amends RSA 639:3 by adding a new paragraph (III-a) that establishes criminal liability for owners or operators of online services who knowingly direct communications to children with the intent to facilitate or encourage engagement in harmful activities, including sexually explicit conduct, drug use, self-harm, or violence. The bill also specifies that certain entities, such as cloud service providers and those offering AI chat programs integral to entertainment, are exempt from these provisions.

Additionally, the bill creates a new section (507:8-k) that allows for enforcement actions against these online service providers. It grants the attorney general the authority to pursue damages for violations, with a minimum liquidated damages amount of $1,000 per violation. Before taking legal action, the attorney general must notify the service provider of the alleged violations and allow a 90-day period for them to address the issues. The bill is set to take effect on January 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
As Amended by the Senate: 189:11-a, 639:3
Version adopted by both bodies: 639:3