This bill amends New Jersey's child endangerment statute, N.J.S.A.2C:24-4, to include provisions specifically addressing the use of automated interactive computer technology, such as AI chatbots, in relation to child welfare. It establishes that any person who knowingly or recklessly allows a child to be subjected to sexual conduct through the creation, control, possession, manipulation, use, dissemination, sale, or promotion of such technology is guilty of a fourth-degree crime. The bill also includes an exception for AI technology designed to prevent sexual conduct when interacting with children.

Under the current law, endangering the welfare of a child is classified as a second-degree crime for those with a legal duty to care for the child and a third-degree crime for others. The bill maintains these classifications while introducing the new fourth-degree crime specifically related to AI technology. The penalties for these crimes range from 18 months to 10 years of imprisonment, depending on the degree of the crime, along with potential fines. The intent of the bill is to impose criminal penalties on creators of AI chatbots who program them to engage in inappropriate interactions with children, thereby addressing growing concerns about child safety in the digital age.