The bill introduces a new chapter, Chapter 63, to Title 6 of the General Laws, focusing on "Artificial Intelligence Companion Models." It defines key terms related to AI companions, including what constitutes an AI companion and the technology involved, such as emotional recognition algorithms and generative artificial intelligence.
The bill establishes specific prohibitions and requirements for operators of AI companions, mandating that they implement protocols to address potential suicidal ideation or self-harm, as well as possible physical harm to others expressed by users. Operators must provide notifications to users about the nature of their interactions with AI companions, clarifying that they are not communicating with a human. This notification must be given at the beginning of any AI companion interaction and at least every three hours for ongoing interactions.
Additionally, beginning July 1, 2027, operators are required to file annual reports with the office of the attorney general, which will include the number of safety protocol activations and related metrics. The attorney general is empowered to enforce compliance with the chapter, including the authority to investigate, sue, and seek injunctions against noncompliant AI companion operators. Violations of the chapter may result in civil penalties of up to $15,000 per day, with fines directed to suicide prevention programs.
The act is set to take effect on January 1, 2027, and includes a severability clause to ensure that if any provision is declared unconstitutional or invalid, the remainder of the chapter remains valid.