Indiana congresswoman helps introduce first bill addressing AI chatbot companions
Updated: 7:06 PM EDT Sep 27, 2025
A congresswoman from Indiana is helping lead the first House effort to protect children from unsafe artificial intelligence chatbots.Reps. Erin Houchin, IN-09, and Jake Auchincloss, MA-04, recently introduced the AI Warnings And Resources for Education (AWARE) Act, which directs the FTC to create resources for parents, educators and minors on how to safely engage with AI chatbots.The bill aims to help families identify unsafe bots, understand privacy and data collection, and manage AI use at home.”AI technology is advancing quickly, and it can offer real opportunities for learning and connection. But parents deserve clear tools to make sure their children are using it safely and at age-appropriate times,” said Rep. Houchin. “The AWARE Act gives families practical guidance to navigate AI chatbot companions with confidence, because protecting kids in the digital age must always come first.”The lawmakers added that the bill is just the first step in a larger conversation about social media and online safety for children.
WASHINGTON —
A congresswoman from Indiana is helping lead the first House effort to protect children from unsafe artificial intelligence chatbots.
Reps. Erin Houchin, IN-09, and Jake Auchincloss, MA-04, recently introduced the AI Warnings And Resources for Education (AWARE) Act, which directs the FTC to create resources for parents, educators and minors on how to safely engage with AI chatbots.
The bill aims to help families identify unsafe bots, understand privacy and data collection, and manage AI use at home.
“AI technology is advancing quickly, and it can offer real opportunities for learning and connection. But parents deserve clear tools to make sure their children are using it safely and at age-appropriate times,” said Rep. Houchin. “The AWARE Act gives families practical guidance to navigate AI chatbot companions with confidence, because protecting kids in the digital age must always come first.”
The lawmakers added that the bill is just the first step in a larger conversation about social media and online safety for children.